DACIA is now taking orders for the all new Jogger, a budget-priced MPV which replaces its retired Dokker, Lodgy and Logan MCV models.
Now, before you start cracking "I'd rather get out and run" jokes about that name, be advised that the Jogger is currently the cheapest seven-seater vehicle on the market today with prices starting at £14,995 on-the-road for the entry level Essential trim.
Identical to the Sandero from the B-pillar forward, the extended rear of the Jogger comes loaded with three rows of flexible seats: the middle row can roll forward and split 60:40, while the rear seats can be removed entirely to give an impressive 1,819l of load space.
Standard equipment across the Jogger range includes air conditioning, cruise control and rear parking sensors, though don't be expecting to customise yours too much: there are only two optional extras available over and above the three trim levels – Essential, Comfort and Extreme SE – in the form of metallic paint (£545) and a spare wheel (£250).
Comfort trim starts at £16,595 and adds an electric parking brake, automatic climate control, electric and heated mirrors, auto wipers, a reversing camera, modular roof bars, 'faux alloy' Flex steel wheels, soft-touch/satin interior trim, electric rear windows and an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilty.
The sporty looking Extreme SE is a limited edition trim which costs £17,395 and includes 16-inch black alloys, black roof rails, heated front seats, front parking sensors, onboard navigation, wireless smartphone mirroring and exterior decals.
All of which means you could have a 'fully loaded' Jogger on the road for well under £20k.
Currently only available with a turbocharged 1.0l petrol lump making 148lb ft of torque, the Jogger will eventually become Dacia's first ever hybrid when an electric-motor assisted mild hybrid version launches in 2023. Before that, there will also be an LPG-powered Jogger on sale at some point next year using the same bi-fuel engine currently found in the Dacia Sandero.
Sneer if you must, but on paper the Jogger should definitely give its 'premium marque' competitors a run for their money (sorry).
First deliveries are expected early next year.
