Lodgy is stamped with Dacia’s trademark DNA: unbeatable value for money, reliability and practicality. Measuring 4.5 metres in length and 1.75 in width, Lodgy’s contours and proportions above all reflect its size and strength. With the grille moulded around the Dacia logo and sharp lines that highlight the sculptured wheel arches, Lodgy provides a preview of Dacia’s new corporate look.

Optimal use of Lodgy’s generous external dimensions has created a roomy interior, with the result that each of its seven seats can accommodate a passenger in total comfort. The third row features class-leading space in terms of knee and head room (144 and 866mm respectively), which is more than enough to seat two adults comfortably.The two rearmost seats are equipped with Isofix fittings, so that child seats and booster cushions can be attached safely and securely.

Lodgy’s modular interior is particularly versatile. In seven-seat configuration, the third-row bench seat can be removed completely or else folded up against the front seat backs, depending on the requirements of the moment.

The size of Lodgy’s spacious boot will not come as a surprise to those who are familiar the Dacia brand. Indeed, it one of the biggest in its segment, with capacity ranging from 2,617dm3 in two-seat configuration, to 827dm3 as a five-seater and 207dm3 when all seven seats are installed. Lodgy also features 30 litres of storage space in the cabin, in the form of various pockets and cubbies. Of particular note are the new, three-litre area on top of the dashboard and, in the back, a drinks holder and large storage pocket.

Dacia Lodgy features a brand-new multimedia system: MEDIA NAV. Competitively priced in the brand’s tradition, at an unbeatable €430, MEDIA NAV incorporates a radio, auxiliary sockets (for MP3 players, etc), Bluetooth connectivity and satellite navigation via a seven-inch touch-sensitive display. The main menu permits simple access to six essential functions: radio, media, telephone, route map, satellite navigation and settings.

The intuitive navigation system has both 2D and 3D (Birdview) graphics. A dedicated website enables drivers to access information updates and upload them via the USB port.

In keeping with the spirit of the Dacia brand, which makes a point of providing customers with equipment they really need, a second multimedia option is available: Dacia-Plug&Radio. This system features a new radio with large screen, an MP3-compatible CD player, Bluetooth technology, dash-mounted USB and jack sockets and steering wheel-mounted fingertip remote controls.

Lodgy incorporates another feature that is new to the Dacia range – a speed limiter, available on higher trim specifications. And while on the subject of giving customers a range of technology suited to their needs, some versions of Lodgy are fitted with rear parking sensors – a practical touch on large vehicles of this type.

Lodgy is available with a selection of petrol and diesel engines that will suit the needs of customers in all the countries where the model is marketed. There are two petrol engines: the 1.6 MPI and the new, turbocharged TCe 115 with direct fuel injection. With its 1.2-litre capacity, but the kind of performance more usually associated with a 1.6, the TCe 115 combines an impressive driving experience with excellent fuel economy and low CO2 emissions.

There are also two diesels, both based on the 1.5 dCi block that has received worldwide acclaim for its reliability and performance. The dCi 90 and dCi 110 powerplants qualify for the Dacia eco² signature – a symbol of low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.