Test drive Dacia Logan MCV: Supercombs

The new Logan MCV aims to be very different from the regular station wagon version. Dacia and offer more space, more room to transform the interior and a lower price than anyone else in this class. First impression

Compared to the MCV sedan, it is 20 centimeters longer, 11 centimeters taller, the wheelbase is increased by as much as 27 centimeters, and the payload is 100 kilograms. In fact, it turned out to be a completely different car with a huge cargo capacity for this class of 700 liters for five passengers and 2350 liters for two passengers.

The creators of the model from the Renault development center in Paris

and the manufacturers of the Myoveni plant near Pitesti apparently envision the MCV to be used by large families and people from various craft industries who will appreciate being used as a light truck. The seats in the rear row of the seven-seat version can be folded forward separately or disassembled, while the second row is split and folded in a 2: 1 ratio. Loading is carried out easily and conveniently through a two-leaf tailgate, which also has a 2: 1 ratio.

So far, the MCV is available with the same four engines as the Logan sedan version. Three petrol units have 75 hp. from. (1.4), 90 c.p. (1.6) and 105 c.p. (1.6 16V), and the 1.4 dCi diesel develops 70 hp. During a test drive on a good road between Cluj-Napoca and Sighisoara, the diesel and the most powerful petrol variant performed well, but the two weaker petrol engines could run into difficulties at full load. Otherwise, the traction of the diesel unit, which reaches a maximum of 160 Nm at 1700 rpm, is sufficient for smooth driving and overtaking, and the gasoline 16-valve engine allows for a more dynamic driving style, which means more gear changes, since maximum torque is available only at 3750 rpm.

Ride comfort

does not give rise to complaints. Renault's B-platform is used as the basis for the structure on which the Clio, Modus and Nissan Micra are installed. The settings are relatively solid for a French car, but within acceptable limits. You will hardly be unpleasantly surprised when cornering, if you remember that Logan is sold without ESP at all. The interior of the spacious cabin could be called "Spartan" if the amiable owners did not provide us with top-end versions of equipment with all the additional elements, including a powerful air conditioner corresponding to the conditions of countries with warmer climates, and not so powerful. but a well-sounding Blaupunkt audio system with CD / MP3 player. Otherwise, the pursuit of economy has led to some unusual solutions, such as the placement of two control buttons for power windows and mirrors on the center console and in front of the gear lever, respectively.

These and other signs of frugality are fully in line with the spirit of the philosophy that led to the creation of the Logan model series. It all started with a visit by then Renault CEO Louis Schweitzer to Russia with President Jacques Chirac, during which he was surprised by the fact that Lada models are selling much better than modern, but more expensive cars. Renault brand. “I looked at these antediluvian cars and didn't want to believe that with the technology we have, we can't make a good car for 6000 euros. I put together a list of features in just three words – modern, reliable and affordable, adding that compromises can be made in everything else.” The new Logan MCV also has an extremely low starting price for its category and size (BGN 14 for the 982-liter version with 1,4 hp), but as usual, a well-equipped car costs more – if you like. For example, to equip the cheapest version of ABS, you will have to pay not only for the device itself (75 BGN), but also for the Laureate equipment kit, which increases the price to 860 BGN.

Text: Vladimir Abazov

Photo: author, Renault