Dacia has increased the price of the base Sandero in the United Kingdom by £1,000 (equal to €1,146 / $1,613). As a result, the entry-level model now starts from £6,995 (€8,013 / $9,844).

Normally, a price hike is justified by the addition of extra gear, or at least something new to the range, but in this case, the Dacia Sandero remains unchanged.

So, why have they made it more expensive? That would be due to the inflation, tax changes and VED (Vehicle Excise Duty) tweaks, as the company’s bosses decided it’s not feasible anymore to sell the budget hatchback from £5,995 (€6,868 / $8,437).

Despite the premium, the Dacia Sandero remains the most affordable new car in the United Kingdom. It undercuts cars such as the Suzuki Celerio by more than £500 (€573 / $704), and it’s still significantly cheaper than the Ford Ka+, Fiesta, Volkswagen Up!, Polo and others.

Standard specification found on the Access SCe 75 trim level includes ABS, ESC, Hill Start Assist, Emergency Brake Assist, ISOFIX, front airbags, LED DRLs and 15-inch ‘Tarkine’ wheels.

Benefiting from air conditioning, DAB radio and front electric windows means upgrading to the Ambiance grade, which is £800 (€916 / $1,126) more expensive.

Dacia also offers the base Sandero with a £1,367 (€1,566 / $1,924) deposit, which includes a £250 (€286 / $356) contribution from the automaker, and customers will have to pay just £89 (€102 / $125) per month.