Dacia Sandero and Sandero Stepway updated for 2026 with first hybrid option

Dacia has already confirmed that the next-generation Sandero will arrive in a couple of years, in 2027. Even so, the Romanian brand is not standing still: until then, it has strengthened the case for a model that was the best-selling car in Europe and in Portugal last year.

To help it stay on the top step of the podium, the Dacia Sandero and Sandero Stepway have been updated for 2026. Alongside a new lighting signature, fresh styling details and additional technology, the biggest change is tucked away out of sight: under the bonnet.

What has changed?

As is typical with these updates, the visual revisions are not especially radical, and that holds true for the latest Sandero and Sandero Stepway.

On the outside, the main changes are focused at the front. There is a new inverted “T” light signature, now linked to a redesigned grille that mirrors the look of the Dacia Duster and Bigster. In side profile, depending on trim level, there are new wheel trims or, on some versions, alloy wheels.

At the rear, the tail-lamps adopt the same light signature but are now darkened. On the Sandero Stepway, a matt black strip running across the full width stands out, giving it a tougher, more rugged appearance.

Inside, the headline update concerns the materials which, according to Dacia, are now more hard-wearing. On Essential and Expression versions, the seats use a new cloth fabric - black in the Sandero and light blue in the Sandero Stepway.

On the Journey trim, there is a new “blue denim” material, while the Extreme versions continue to offer washable upholstery and rubber floor mats.

On the technology front, the updated Dacia Sandero and Sandero Stepway can be specified with a new infotainment system that grows from 8" to 10", as well as a wireless charging pad for smartphones. This is complemented by a 7" digital instrument cluster with refreshed graphics.

As with other Dacia models, these cars retain the YouClip system - a clever solution that lets you attach various accessories at key points around the cabin, including tablet holders, phone mounts and storage pouches, among others.

Hybrids for the first time

The most significant updates are, however, found under the bonnet. For the first time, the Dacia Sandero Stepway is offered with a full hybrid system - the same setup first introduced on the Bigster. The Sandero, by contrast, is not available with this powertrain.

This means it uses a naturally aspirated 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine along with two electric motors - one for drive and another as a generator - powered by a 1.4 kWh battery. Combined, the system produces a total output of 155 hp and 170 Nm of torque.

The LPG powertrain, branded ECO-G, is also new. Instead of the 1.0-litre 100 hp engine, it now uses a new 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo unit producing 120 hp. The updates extend to the gearbox too, which for the first time can be a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

In addition, the Romanian brand has increased LPG tank capacity from 40 litres to 49.6 litres, enabling a total range (LPG + petrol) 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 now more powerful: 100 hp versus 90 hp in the pre-facelift versions.

When will they arrive and how much will they cost?

Dacia has not yet confirmed when the revised Sandero and Sandero Stepway will reach the market, but we do know that the Sandero Stepway equipped with the hybrid system will arrive in the last quarter of 2026.

Pricing has not been announced either. By way of comparison, the current Dacia Sandero and Sandero Stepway are available from €14,200 and €16,306, respectively.