ANYONE looking for a great value new car with space for a family should test drive the Dacia Sandero.
It's pretty noisy and unrefined, but the diesel Stepway I've been driving has good performance, 70 miles per gallon economy and a comfortable ride.
Yet it costs just £9,000, which is cheaper than most superminis.
Basically, the Stepway is a 4x4 lookalike version of the standard hatch, with raised ride height but still only two wheel drive. So it is not up to much more than rough dry tracks off-road.
However, the Renault-sourced diesel 1.5, while noisy at low revs - which it isn't in the Renaults - delivers decent acceleration in all five gears.
And while there is some roll, it clings on well through the corners and always feels very safe.
It's easy to drive and park and the ride is good enough to soak up a country road at speed or potholed town roads at under 30.
There's not much rear legroom behind a six foot driver, and no seat height or steering column adjustment means not everyone will be able to find a comfortable driving position.
An economy button cuts engine power drastically and is best avoided and equipment in this mid-range model includes electric front windows, tacho, internally adjustable door mirrors, remote locking and a CD stereo.