Dacia Sandero Takes the Crown: 2023 Auto Express Supermini of the Year

Subcompact Car of the Year 2023: Dacia Sandero

The Dacia Sandero has been named the 2023 Auto Express Subcompact Car of the Year, with the Skoda Fabia and Toyota Yaris receiving honorable mentions.

After three years, a new vehicle has claimed the top spot in the subcompact category. In 2023, the refreshed Dacia Sandero takes the lead. Even though this year’s updates are minimal, its key strengths—affordability and practicality—have never been more significant.

The Sandero lineup begins at a price of £13,795, positioning it as one of the most affordable new vehicles currently available. However, for our judges to bestow such an important accolade, a car must offer more than just an attractive price, and the Dacia delivers numerous benefits for that reasonable sum.

Beneath its exterior, the Sandero is built on the same platform as the Renault Clio – a fantastic foundation, considering the Clio has been our Supermini of the Year winner since 2020. Consequently, the Sandero is one of the roomiest vehicles in its category, rivaling or even surpassing some cars from the next tier up. Additionally, it boasts a sizable 328-litre trunk.

One might assume that an inexpensive subcompact car would suffer from a weak engine, but the Sandero defies such expectations. Its turbocharged engine offers substantial low-end power, ensuring more than sufficient performance, even when carrying a full load of passengers. Additionally, the car provides a comfortable ride, and its handling is both safe and reliable.

Certainly, you might forego the stylish alloy wheels and the flashy touchscreens available in some other small cars, but these features are not essential. When it comes to the fundamental needs of an efficient supermini, no other vehicle in its category can compare.

Our Selection

Dacia Sandero 1.0 TCe Essential (priced at £13,795)

The entry-level Essential model includes air conditioning and cruise control as standard features. With a £1,500 down payment on a three-year PCP agreement, which has a yearly mileage cap of 10,000 miles, the monthly payment is just £221.

Praised

Skoda Fabia

The Skoda Fabia remains a top contender in its category, largely due to its high-quality finish and mature design, making it comparable to vehicles from a higher class. Its impressive refinement, elegant interior, and spacious trunk are key factors in its continued success this year.

Toyota Yaris

Individuals in the market for a subcompact vehicle seek affordability and reliability, and the Toyota Yaris stands out in these aspects. Its hybrid engine offers excellent fuel efficiency in everyday driving conditions, and it operates with a high level of smoothness and sophistication. Additionally, the Yaris provides a comfortable ride and responsive handling.

On these pages, you can discover all the details about the winners of our New Car Awards 2023 and the reasons behind our selections. Simply click on the links below to learn more…

Winners of the 2023 New Car Awards