Dacia Sandero and Sandero Stepway updated for 2026 with hybrid power

Dacia has already confirmed that the next-generation Sandero will arrive in 2027, within the next couple of years. However, the Romanian brand is not waiting around and, until then, has strengthened the case for a model that was Europe’s and Portugal’s best-selling car last year.

To ensure it retains top spot, the Dacia Sandero and Sandero Stepway have been updated for 2026. As well as introducing a new light signature, fresh styling details and additional technology, the biggest development is hidden from view: beneath the bonnet.

What has changed?

As is typical of this kind of update, the styling revisions are not especially extensive, and the new Sandero and Sandero Stepway follow that same approach.

On the outside, the most significant changes are at the front, where a new inverted “T” light signature makes its debut. It is linked to a redesigned grille similar to those used by the Dacia Duster and Bigster. Viewed from the side, depending on trim level, there are new decorative wheel covers or alloy wheels.

At the rear, the light units use the same light signature, although they are now darkened. The Sandero Stepway also gains a matt-black strip running across the full width of the car, giving it a more rugged appearance.

Inside, the key change concerns the materials, which Dacia says are now more durable. In Essential and Expression trims, the seats feature a new fabric upholstery: black in the Sandero and light blue in the Sandero Stepway.

Journey trim receives a new “blue denim” material, while Extreme versions continue to feature washable upholstery and rubber floor mats.

In technology terms, the revised Dacia Sandero and Sandero Stepway can be specified with a new infotainment system, enlarged from 8 inches to 10 inches, as well as a wireless charging pad for smartphones. They also receive a 7-inch digital instrument display with updated graphics.

As with other Dacia models, the pair retains the YouClip system, a clever solution for attaching a range of accessories at strategic points around the cabin, including tablet holders, phone holders and storage bags.

Dacia Sandero Stepway hybrids for the first time

The most substantial changes, however, are found beneath the bonnet. For the first time, the Dacia Sandero Stepway is available with a full-hybrid system, the same one introduced in the Bigster. The Sandero, meanwhile, is not offered with this powertrain.

This set-up combines a naturally aspirated 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors - one for propulsion and the other acting as a generator - supplied by a 1.4 kWh battery. Together, the system produces a combined 155 hp and 170 Nm of torque.

The LPG powertrain, called ECO-G, is new too. Replacing the 1.0-litre 100 hp engine is a new 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder unit producing 120 hp. There are changes to the gearbox as well, as a six-speed dual-clutch transmission is available for the first time.

In addition, the Romanian marque has increased LPG tank capacity from 40 litres to 49.6 litres, providing a total range - LPG and petrol combined - of up to 1590 km and 1480 km in the Sandero and Sandero Stepway respectively.

As if that were not enough, the 1.0 TCe engine has also been revised and is more powerful, delivering 100 hp rather than the 90 hp of the pre-facelift versions.

When will they arrive and how much will they cost?

Dacia has not yet announced when the refreshed Sandero and Sandero Stepway will reach the market, although the Sandero Stepway fitted with the hybrid system is known to be due in the final quarter of 2026.

Pricing has not yet been revealed either. For comparison, the current Dacia Sandero and Sandero Stepway are available from €14,200 and €16,306 respectively.