Used 2012 Renault Sandero Stepway Sedan Review & Ratings

Marketed primarily for Brazilian customers, the Sandero Stepway is designed with comfort in mind for all passengers, even if there are not as many frills as others vehicles in this class boast. The Stepway provides enough room for five passengers, and has enough trunk space to ensure that there is no luggage left behind. It offers a very distinctive style for the sophisticated urban individuals that it targets, beginning with the overall style of the exterior. Sitting higher off the ground then other models, with chrome finish on certain features, the Sandero Stepway has a personality all its own. Aluminum-look roof rails, 16-inch alloy wheels and kid plates add to the funky charm of the vehicle.

The Sandero Stepway has all of the necessary safety features that you need so that passengers are protected when they need it most. This includes dual front air bags, antilock brakes and electronic brakeforce distribution. Although there are no optional safety features, or any optional features for that matter, the ones that it already comes equipped with are certainly adequate. Air conditioning, a trip computer, power steering, electric front windows and a sound system that is USB and iPod-friendly are just a few of these standard features.

The cabin is as attractive as it is comfortable and practical. The rear bench seat has a 60/40 split, which means that even if larger items need the extra space, there is no reason that there cannot still be room for passengers in the back. One of the pitfalls of the rear seat is the fact that it is not really big enough for larger adults without causing cramping of vital limbs. The overall feel of the interior is pretty cozy though, with all things considered. There are definitely more features and although the quality of plastic in the dash is not 100 percent, it is not half bad either.

The Sandero Stepway is powered by a 1598 cc four-cylinder engine that can accelerate zero to 62 mph in 11.5 seconds, which clearly is sluggish. The vehicle is grossly underpowered and the five-speed gearbox seems to struggle, especially when trying to pass on the highway. What it lacks in power, it makes up in handling and ride though. This vehicle seems to lope across hills and float over bumps. This is due to a mixture of the increased ride height and a fantastic suspension. Steering is responsive and it handles curves surprisingly well for its height.