29 Sep 06 11:53
We've seen spy shots of this boxy, utilitarian load-lugger, and here it is: the Romanian-built Dacia Logan MCV, part of the low-cost Logan range which will come to the UK under the Renault brand.
Like the Logan saloon already on sale in some markets (hatches and estates will follow) the MCV has been developed for durability, ease of maintenance and the strength to cope with poor roads and driving conditions. Though many of its components are Renault-derived (Renault owns Dacia) and from the Mk2 Clio, it is simpler in its construction than Renault's current Western European model-ranges, and does not have the same complex electronic control systems. It features broad door protective mouldings, high ground clearance of 155mm, long suspension travel and extra protection for the subframe, as well as a one-piece dashboard.
Seating up to seven adults, the MCV has three rows of seats, easily accessed via a middle folding row; the rearmost row gives plenty of headroom, thanks to the van-like upright rear door with vertically-split tailgate. With five seats in place, it can carry 700 litres-worth of cargo, and up to 2,350 litres with just the two front seats, enabling it to double up as a handy van. With all seven seats, it has a near-200-litre boot. The rear seats can be folded and, in some models, split, though they do not retract cleverly to form a flat floor; for serious load-carrying, they can be removed altogether.
Of course, the Logan MCV's not going to be as sophisticated as an Espace or Scenic, but it does meet all current European safety standards, and it has four airbags, three-point seatbelts for all seats, headrests, ISOFIX child seat mounting points and ABS anti-lock brakes.
Engines on offer are three petrols - 1.4 (75bhp), 1.6 (90bhp) and 1.6 16v (105bhp), or the 1.5 dCi diesel (70bhp) familiar from the Renault range; the latter returns 53.3mpg. The Logan range will come to the UK next year once right-hand drive production starts (in India); prices will begin around the £5,500 mark.
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