Dacia Jogger 2023 Review: Award-Winning Seven-Seater Value

The Dacia Jogger has redefined affordable family transport by securing the prestigious Family Car of the Year award in 2023. This versatile seven-seater combines the practicality of an estate, the roominess of an MPV, and rugged SUV aesthetics at a fraction of the price of competitors. Starting from around £18,000, it delivers exceptional value for growing households needing space, efficiency, and reliability without luxury frills.

Design and Build: Practicality Meets Style

At first glance, the Jogger’s elongated body and raised stance evoke a compact SUV, but its estate-like profile hides clever engineering for maximum utility. The roof rails come standard, perfect for adding roof boxes on family adventures, while the exterior’s simple lines keep maintenance straightforward. Available in eye-catching colors like vibrant greens on higher trims, it appeals to outdoor enthusiasts with copper-brown accents and protective cladding.

Build quality prioritizes durability over premium feel—think wipe-clean surfaces ideal for messy kids and pets. The lightweight construction, tipping scales at just over 1,200kg for petrol versions, enhances efficiency and handling. Hybrid models add about 180kg but maintain agility. This no-nonsense approach ensures the Jogger feels robust for daily duties, from school runs to weekend getaways.

Powertrain Options: Efficiency for Everyday Use

Dacia offers two main powertrains: a frugal 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol (TCe 110) with manual gearbox and a 1.6-litre full hybrid (Hybrid 140) paired with an automatic. The petrol unit accelerates from 0-62mph in about 10 seconds—adequate for family pacing—while delivering up to 47mpg. It boasts a superior braked towing capacity of 1,200kg, outpacing the hybrid’s 750kg limit.

The hybrid shines for urban drivers, blending a petrol engine with electric motors for seamless power delivery and around 50mpg combined. Its automatic transmission avoids the drone of CVT rivals, providing smooth shifts and regenerative braking that boosts efficiency. Both options keep running costs low, with affordable insurance and minimal servicing needs, making the Jogger a smart long-term choice.

Interior Space and Flexibility: Built for Families

The Jogger’s cabin is its standout feature, accommodating seven passengers with clever modular seating. The second row slides and reclines, offering Isofix on outer seats for child seats—though folding one grants third-row access. Rear doors swing wide for easy loading, and the third row suits kids or shorter adults with surprising legroom and headspace.

• Boot Capacity: 708 litres with five seats up; expands to 1,819 litres with third row folded; 2,085 litres flat.
• Glovebox and Storage: 17-litre glovebox, deep door bins, and under-floor compartments keep clutter at bay.
• Extreme Trim Perks: Optional camping bed kit converts the boot into a sleeping area for two.

Materials are hard-wearing plastics with bright accents around vents for a cohesive feel. Higher trims like Extreme add faux-leather and copper details, elevating the budget vibe. Visibility is excellent, aided by large windows, making it parent-friendly.

Driving Experience: Surprisingly Capable

Don’t let its size fool you—the Jogger maneuvers like a smaller hatchback. Light steering and a tight turning circle simplify parking, especially with standard reversing cameras on most trims. Ride quality absorbs bumps well, thanks to modest wheel sizes, ensuring comfort on varied roads.

On motorways, it cruises steadily, though wind noise intrudes at higher speeds. The hybrid’s electric assistance smooths acceleration, reducing fatigue on long trips. Body lean is minimal in corners, and its low weight contributes to responsive handling. Families praise the confidence-inspiring dynamics, free from jerkiness over imperfections.

Safety Considerations: A Notable Drawback

While practical, the Jogger’s Euro NCAP rating of two stars raises eyebrows for family buyers. Standard kit includes autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping, and traffic sign recognition, but adult and child protection scores lag. Dacia prioritizes affordability, but this impacts overall safety perceptions. Parents should weigh this against the value, perhaps adding aftermarket child seats.

Trims and Pricing: Value Across the Range

Entry-level Essential starts at £18,376, building to £23,860 for Hybrid Extreme SE. Key trims include:

• Expression: Adds climate control, cruise control.
• Journey: 16-inch alloys, keyless entry.
• Extreme: 17-inch wheels, adaptive cruise, glossy finishes.

All include a three-year/60,000-mile warranty. Optional spare wheel (£200 on petrol) enhances peace of mind. Resale holds steady due to demand for budget seven-seaters.

Running Costs and Ownership

Low list prices translate to cheap ownership: road tax under £200/year, insurance groups 10-20. Hybrids qualify for benefits in low-emission zones. Servicing is straightforward and inexpensive at Dacia dealers. Fuel sipping keeps bills down, ideal for cash-strapped families.

Who Should Buy the Dacia Jogger?

Perfect for large families prioritizing space and savings over gadgets. It outshines pricier rivals in versatility, though safety-focused buyers may look elsewhere. Used buyers tempted by new-car warranties find it compelling.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Dacia Jogger a good family car?

Yes, its seven seats, vast boot, and low costs make it ideal, earning it Family Car of the Year 2023, despite safety caveats.

How reliable is the Dacia Jogger?

Dacia’s simple engineering ensures strong reliability, backed by a solid warranty and low maintenance needs.

Can adults fit comfortably in the third row?

Best for children, but shorter adults manage for short trips with decent space.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Petrol: up to 47mpg; Hybrid: around 50mpg combined.

Does it have Apple CarPlay?

Yes, wireless on higher trims via a 8-inch touchscreen.

Final Thoughts on the 2023 Winner

The Dacia Jogger proves you don’t need to spend a fortune for a capable family hauler. Its blend of space, efficiency, and driveability cements its award-winning status, appealing to practical parents everywhere. Test drive one to experience the value firsthand.