Access 1.6 4x2 5dr

Value for money in the Access form

Positives. Yes, it has body coloured bumpers which is a big improvement. Electric windows up front. Chromed air vent ports. The new dash is absolutely fine, with sensible recesses that stop things flying about. It doesn't strike me as Spartan at all. The car rides the bumps well, holds the road and grips in the corners and roundabouts. The road view is good despite not having a height adjustable seat. I'm 5ft 6 ins. The gear change is a bit porridgy and there's no lift or depress for reverse. But one shouldn't be in a hurry with this car; made for trundling in rural environments and not really for the city.
Build Quality. Open and shut the doors and you're pretty sure there's no SIPS inside them. The floor lining doesn't fit snugly and there are upward bulges in the front passenger side. The heater direction control nob is very stiff and heat comes out of every port hole which ever direction you choose to set the nob. I expected an empty tyre well but no. The Dacia FAQ's says tat a spare and retaining bracket can be bought. My dealer found the bracket part number but Renault told him it wasnt available.
If you opt for higher specs than the 2 base model 2 and 4 wheel drives and if the build quality is the same, you might wonder if you'd have been better off with a second hand Yeti. If you make a car without loads of extras it's still important that what you do put in works well and does it's job.
I think the base 'Access' model is very good value. It's a very good no-fuss utility family car.

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