1. ABS with EBD as well as EBA, and also ASR and ESP, standard across the Sandero range, with up to four airbags
If you're bamboozled by these acronyms, don't be: The Sandero has anti-lock brakes (ABS) teamed with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist (EBA). The latter helps you to brake harder in case of an emergency. EBA is also said to shorten your braking distance by up to 9 metres if you're travelling at 120 km per hour.
Anti-skid regulation (ASR) together with ESP (electronic stability program) help you to stay control of your car at all times, especially in slippery conditions. It's mandatory on European cars, while many cars in SA (especially entry-level cars), are still manufactured without it. Daytime running lamps are another must-have to ensure your visibility, and this can be found on all models in the range.
The Techroad and Stepway Plus models are equipped with side airbags as well, while the rest of the range have only the two in front.
Related: Renault Sandero Stepway Plus (2018) review - A value-packed new addition
2. A 3-point safety belt in the middle rear seat
In this segment, you won't easily find anything but a lap belt in the centre of the rear bench, but the Sandero is equipped with five three-point seat belts.
Related: Sandero 66kW Turbo Stepway Techroad (2020) review: The creature comfort crossover
3. Hill-start assist
A nifty feature, especially on cars with a manual transmission. When the car is stationary at an incline, it won't roll backwards when you want to get going again. Hill-start assist will hold the Sandero in position for a few seconds, allowing you to safely pull away without embarrassment or (an expensive) minor mishap.
4. A rear-view camera and parking sensors on selected models
The Stepway Plus and Stepway Techroad models are equipped with a touchscreen system that displays the rear-camera's view. Many an accident has been prevented by being able to see what's going on behind you. Satnav with SA maps is also included so you can easily find your way. Park distance control is included in these two variants as well.
5. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
These may not be seen purely as safety features, but having your phone's assistant on hand to read out your Whatsapp messages or tune in to Spotify, ultimately means your attention and eyes are on the road ahead, and not on the touchscreen. Available in Techroad and Stepway Plus models. Bluetooth with and USB/AUX ports are standard across the board.
The Sandero and Sandero Stepway Expression don't have the fancy smartphone mirroring, but have the Bluetooth and USB/AUX ports with the added bonus of a radio / CD / MP3 player.
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