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Dacia Spring’s biggest power upgrade yet
Dacia is quietly redefining what an affordable electric city car can be. The Spring — the Romanian brand’s compact electric hatchback that helped bring EVs to budget buyers — has received a meaningful technical overhaul for 2026, trading its modest 45 and 65 hp motors for far more capable 70 hp (52 kW) and 101 hp (75 kW) units.
This isn’t just a mild facelift. Dacia has pushed upgrades across the Spring’s powertrain, battery, chassis and charging hardware to make the model more usable beyond inner-city driving while keeping its core selling point intact: low price.
Why this matters
The power bump transforms the Spring from a purely urban shuttle into a practical small EV for mixed use. With up to 20% more torque in the 80–120 kph band, overtaking on faster roads is easier and motorway stints feel less strained — an important step for buyers who want an affordable EV that can handle occasional longer trips.
What’s new: key technical changes
Dacia’s update is more than a new motor. Highlights include:
- New 70 hp (52 kW) and 101 hp (75 kW) electric motors, replacing 44 hp and 64 hp units
- 24.3 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery — the first LFP pack used in a Renault Group vehicle
- WLTP range of 225 km (140 miles)
- 40 kW on-board charger for faster AC charging
- Reinforced central battery location for improved weight distribution
- Standard anti-roll bar, upgraded brakes, and re-tuned shock absorbers and springs
- Minor aerodynamic refinements
These mechanical changes add up: better braking feel, reduced body roll, and more confidence at higher speeds. The stronger charger shortens charging stops, while the LFP chemistry improves battery durability and safety at a low cost compared with higher-density chemistries.
Specifications at a glance
- Power: 70 hp (52 kW) or 101 hp (75 kW)
- Battery: 24.3 kWh LFP
- WLTP range: 225 km (140 miles)
- On-board charger: 40 kW
- Trim levels: Essential, Expression, Extreme
- Price: from €16,900 — full range remains under €20,000
Market context and positioning
Dacia has been on a roll. After rising sales for models like the no-frills Sandero (2024’s best-selling car in some markets) and the launch of the Bigster crossover, the brand is stretching its value proposition into more segments. The Spring update shows Dacia wants to maintain its bargain-basement price while offering a product that feels modern and usable.
The Spring’s move to LFP cells mirrors a wider industry trend: lower-cost, longer-lived battery chemistry for entry-level EVs. Pairing that with improved chassis tuning and a stronger motor sets the little hatchback apart from many low-cost rivals that remain strictly city-only.
Who should consider the refreshed Spring?
The updated Spring is ideal for buyers who want a genuine budget EV that can handle both daily urban duties and occasional regional trips without constant range anxiety. It’s especially attractive to first-time EV buyers, commuters on a budget, and city households looking for a second car.
"An affordable, more usable electric city car" best summarizes Dacia’s aim: retain simplicity and low ownership costs while expanding capability.
Quick takeaways
- The Spring becomes significantly more versatile thanks to 70/101 hp powertrains and improved torque.
- LFP battery and 40 kW charger deliver a solid balance of range, durability and charging speed.
- Pricing remains aggressive, starting at €16,900 with all trims under €20k.
Dacia’s Spring update proves that modest price tags and sensible technical advances can coexist. For buyers seeking value-first electric mobility, the new Spring warrants a close look.
Source: autoevolution
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