Dacia Lodgy MPV revealed ahead of 2012 launch
Dacia has unveiled the Lodgy MPV, debuting first as a race car for the Trophée Andros ice series, with production models set for March 2012.
Dacia has pulled the covers off its new Lodgy MPV, initially in motorsport guise for the 2011/2012 Trophée Andros ice-racing series. The production version, aimed at families seeking space and value, is set to follow in March 2012.
The Lodgy’s first public appearance is as a race car, driven by Alain Prost in the French Trophée Andros series. This version features a 3.0-litre V6 producing 355 hp and 360 Nm of torque, paired with a SADEV six-speed sequential gearbox and all-wheel drive. It is a far cry from the family-focused production version, but gives a clear look at the car’s overall shape and design direction.
Production model details
Dacia says the Lodgy’s road-going version will be longer and taller than the race car, with the same basic silhouette. It is expected to use the familiar Renault-Nissan B0 platform, shared with the Duster and Logan. Engine options are likely to mirror those models, with a 1.5-litre dCi diesel (in 90 or 110 hp tunes) and a 1.6-litre petrol engine producing 110 hp. Front-wheel drive is anticipated, in line with Dacia’s other MPVs.
Dacia plans to offer the Lodgy in both five- and seven-seat layouts, targeting buyers who need maximum space on a budget. The company has not released full equipment or trim details, but the Lodgy is expected to continue Dacia’s approach of undercutting rivals on price. Entry-level models are tipped to start below €13,000, with top versions just over €18,000. That would put the Lodgy €3,000–€4,000 below mainstream alternatives, in keeping with the brand’s value strategy.
- 1.5-litre dCi diesel (90 or 110 hp) expected
- 1.6-litre petrol (110 hp) likely
- Front-wheel drive for production models
- Five- and seven-seat configurations
From ice racing to family motoring
While the Lodgy’s motorsport debut as a V6-powered AWD racer is mainly a publicity exercise, it signals Dacia’s confidence in the model’s chassis and design. The production Lodgy is aimed at families and practical buyers, not racing drivers, but Dacia’s approach is to offer more space and seats for less money than established rivals. The Lodgy will compete with models such as the Renault Scénic, Citroën C4 Picasso and Kia Carens, but at a lower price point.
Dacia has not yet confirmed full specifications, performance or equipment for the production Lodgy. More details are expected at the official launch in March 2012. The Lodgy is expected to go on sale in Romania by June 2012, with wider European availability to follow.
