Is the Dacia Jogger Hybrid Worth to Buy?

The Dacia Jogger, Dacia’s first hybrid model, is also the only 7-seater model in Dacia’s product range. So, is the facelifted hybrid version of the Jogger, which is the cheapest 7-seater model sold in our country and Europe and comes with Formula 1 technology, logical?

In its hybrid version, the Jogger adopts a unit already used within the Renault Group, the Hybrid 140, which is the heart of the Clio Hybrid. The 1.6-liter atmospheric engine produces 94 horsepower, and with the support of two different electric motors, it generates a total power of 140 horsepower and a torque of 205 Nm. The Jogger Hybrid, equipped with a clutchless automatic transmission, features a 20-horsepower HSG electric motor that adjusts the transmission speed during gear shifts, ensuring smoother transitions. This motor, which we can call the “High Voltage Starter Motor,” also takes on the tasks of an alternator and a starter motor. The second electric motor, with 49 horsepower, is directly connected to the transmission and assists the internal combustion engine, while in electric mode, it can solely propel the vehicle. This hybrid unit, known as the “dog-box,” is inspired by the technology used by Renault’s Formula 1 team.

The petrol engine, equipped with the well-known Atkinson cycle for efficiency, achieves an average fuel consumption of 4.8 liters per 100 kilometers with the assistance of electric motors and the support of small and lightweight 1.2 kWh capacity batteries. The small battery size of the non-plug-in hybrid unit, which does not require external charging, helps to keep the cost of the vehicle from increasing significantly, unlike Plug-in Hybrid units. The internal combustion Jogger, with 110 horsepower, has a claimed fuel consumption of 5.6 liters per 100 kilometers. Here is where the complexity begins. When calculated based on prices in Germany, the Jogger Hybrid, in the same equipment level as its internal combustion counterpart, will be around 150-200 thousand lira more expensive. Assuming a fuel consumption difference of 1 liter per 100 kilometers between the two engines, the non-hybrid unit would have an extra consumption cost of 21.17 lira for every 100 kilometers. If we calculate from the price difference of 150 thousand lira, you would need to travel 708 thousand kilometers for the hybrid model to equalize the costs with the petrol model, assuming that the maintenance costs of the hybrid unit are the same as those of the petrol unit.

For those looking to save money, Dacia already offers an LPG engine option. Financially, the most reasonable choice is definitely not the hybrid unit, but in terms of performance and comfort, the hybrid unit is the most sensible. With higher engine power and torque, the hybrid unit will not struggle on slopes like other engines, and it provides user comfort with a 6-speed automatic transmission.