Is the UK’s cheapest new car any good?

At £5995, the Dacia Sandero is the lowest-priced new car on the UK market. That’s quite a statement, especially if you’re looking at the amount of car you’re getting for your money.

In terms of its physical dimensions, this is not a traditional supermini. At this sort of price level, the competition consists of rather smaller hatchbacks like the Ford Ka+ and MG 3. They are the Sandero’s most obvious rivals, but the Dacia is also up against established class leaders such as Ford’s Fiesta and the Skoda Fabia.

How has Dacia managed to put such a small price tag on the Sandero? By keeping costs to a minimum. A big choice of models and trim levels is not part of the Sandero proposition. You get just three engine options – two petrols and one diesel – and three spec choices. At the lowest Access level, a Sandero buyer doesn't even get a radio.

And size isn’t everything. Extra space in the cabin might not compensate for serious faults in other areas, especially over a long ownership period. This is a basic offering, and as such there will always be shortcomings in any car that’s been built to a budget.

Despite that, the Sandero has plenty of good points in its favour. Indeed, in its most recent 2017 Awards, What Car? handed the 0.9 TCe Ambiance the trophy for Best Small Car Under £12,000.

So, would you spend your cash on a Dacia Sandero, or would your six grand be better spent on a used car? Our video will help you to decide.