Renault's recently launched entry-level Logan sedan is transformed into a hatchback, Sandero, due here early next year.

To be built at Nissan's local Rosslyn plant, the hatch continues the French company's move to produce more affordable cars, without skimping too much on quality or that quirky Renault styling.

The front features modern, expressive headlamps and a grille and bumper that blend harmoniously with the bodywork. Its lateral lines form an "upturned wave" and underpin the impression of solidity, thanks to the broad side protective strips. The rear styling "reinforces the sense of a generously proportioned, spacious and well-built vehicle".

Inside, the dashboard is modern and functional, available with three trims and co-ordinated upholsteries. Particular attention was paid to produce an uncluttered, practical driving environment, with easy-to-read instruments and user-friendly controls.

Sandero joins the B0-platform family, following the Logan into South Africa. So it's size is fairly similar: 4.02m in length with 320 litres of luggage space. Headroom in the back is 878mm, while front-seat occupants get 1400mm of shoulder room.

The engine line-up includes a choice of two eight-valve petrol power-plants (1.4 and 1.6). The units deliver 55kW and 64kW at 5500rpm respectively, with torque of 112Nm and 128Nm at 3000rpm. Both powerplants are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. The 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre versions return combined cycle fuel consumption of 7.0 litres/100km and 7.2 litres/100km respectively.

Renault's punting the "durable and value-targeted spare parts prices" of this vehicle as well as its affordable showroom price tag.