Dacia to Retire Logan Nameplate in 2013 Model Update
Dacia is preparing to phase out the Logan name from its budget saloon range in 2013, with the next generation expected to launch under a new badge.
Dacia will discontinue the Logan name for its core budget saloon in 2013, according to Romanian media reports. The move comes as the Renault-owned brand prepares to introduce a new generation of its long-running model, which has been a mainstay in emerging markets since 2004.
The Logan, launched in 2004, has served as Dacia’s entry-level offering, assembled in multiple countries and sold under various badges including Renault, Nissan, Mahindra and Lada, depending on the market. It has become synonymous with affordable motoring across Europe, North Africa, South America and India, and has been produced in saloon, estate, van and utility variants.
Global reach and multiple identities
While the Dacia badge is most closely associated with the Logan in Europe, the car has also appeared as the Renault Logan, Nissan Aprio, Mahindra Verito, Renault Tondar 90 and Lada Largus elsewhere. Its flexible platform and low production costs have allowed Renault to tailor the car to local demands and assemble it in plants from Romania to Brazil and Russia to South Africa.
The decision to drop the Logan name is expected to coincide with the arrival of the next-generation model, which will likely bring updated styling, new engines and revised interiors. While no official confirmation has been issued by Dacia or Renault, Romanian outlet Autolatest.ro first reported the plan, suggesting that the rebranding will mark a fresh start for the saloon as Dacia continues to expand its range and modernise its image.
What happens next for Dacia’s saloon?
The next-generation saloon is expected to launch in 2013, though the final name and full technical details remain unconfirmed. The move away from the Logan name may help Dacia distance the new car from its budget origins and position it alongside a more modern line-up. The Logan estate, known as the Logan MCV, and other variants may also see changes in naming or positioning as the range evolves.
For buyers in markets where the Logan badge has built up recognition for value and reliability, the change may require some adjustment. Dacia’s strategy of offering simple, affordable cars has proved successful, and the new generation will need to maintain that reputation even as the brand updates its identity.
Further details on the new model and its name are expected as the 2013 launch approaches. For more on the Logan’s estate variant, see2013 Dacia Logan MCV Is UK’s Cheapest Estate.
