The Dacia Spring has carved a niche for itself in the electric vehicle (EV) market. Renowned for its unbeatable price tag and city-friendly size, the Spring has become a popular choice for budget-conscious eco-warriors across Europe. Now, for 2024, Dacia has unveiled a refreshed version of the Spring, promising even greater affordability alongside some subtle improvements. We recently got behind the wheel of the new Spring for a first test drive, and here's what we discovered.
Sharper Styling and a Budget-Friendly Facelift
While the overall silhouette remains familiar, the 2024 Dacia Spring boasts a subtly revamped design. The front grille features a new Y-shaped motif, aligning it with Dacia's current design language. New headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights add a touch of modernity, while the revised bumpers lend a more contemporary feel. The overall effect is a touch more refined, without straying from the Spring's core utilitarian charm.
Interior Refresh: A Focus on Practicality
Step inside, and the focus on affordability remains evident. The cabin prioritizes functionality over luxury, with hard plastics dominating most surfaces. However, the layout is clear and straightforward, with all essential controls readily accessible. The 2024 Spring benefits from a new infotainment system, the Media Control. While it lacks the sophistication of some rivals, it offers basic functionalities like Bluetooth connectivity and radio, making it sufficient for most daily needs. An optional upgrade to the Media Nav Live system provides a larger touchscreen and navigation capabilities.
Powertrain and Performance: City-Centric Efficiency
The 2024 Spring retains the same electric powertrain as its predecessor. A single electric motor delivers 45 horsepower (hp) or 65 hp depending on the chosen variant. This translates to a respectable, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for city commutes, and the top speed of 125 km/h (77 mph) is sufficient for most urban environments. Where the Spring excels is in efficiency. With a claimed WLTP range of 230 kilometers (143 miles), the 2024 Spring offers a practical range for navigating urban areas without frequent charging stops.
Behind the Wheel: A Nimble City Companion
The Spring's compact dimensions and light weight make it a delight to maneuver in tight city streets. The steering is light and responsive, making navigating narrow spaces a breeze. While not designed for long highway journeys, the Spring provides a comfortable ride for city commutes. The suspension effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, ensuring a smooth ride quality.
The Dacia Difference: Unmatched Value Proposition
The true selling point of the 2024 Dacia Spring remains its exceptional value. The base model starts at a staggering €11,800 (approximately $13,900) with the Rabla Plus government incentive program in Romania. This makes the Spring one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market, putting electromobility within reach of a whole new segment of buyers. Even without the Rabla Plus program, the starting price remains highly competitive, hovering around €16,900 (approximately $19,900).
