The all-new Sandero is not due in South Africa this year, so fans of Renault's locally-built hatchback range will have to make do with a few minor upgrades, to the existing model, for the 2013 model year.
Renault has ushered in these changes with a new limited edition model inspired by its new Sandero brand ambassador, SA surfing queen Roxy Louw.
The special edition is based on the Renault Stepway hatch, but adds a new Blaupunkt Bluetooth MP3/USB/Aux sounds system and a Tom Tom Live navigation system.
The aforementioned international surfing star and model has also added her own personal touch in the form of a body sticker featuring her signature turtle and hibiscus Cowabanga logo.
The edition also has a similar colour choice catalogue to the Model T Ford, except this Stepway is also available in red. Renault will build 50 black ones and 50 red ones, basically.
As before the Stepway is powered by a 64kW/128Nm 1.6-litre eight-valve petrol engine and its sits 20mm higher off the ground than the regular Sandero hatch.
This engine is also fitted to the lower-riding Sandero 1.6 Dynamique and a 55kW/112Nm 1.4 Ambiance continues to exist for entry-level buyers. Both of these Sanderos gain a front bumper spoiler lip and a new rear bumper with a black insert, while the 1.6 Dynamique gets a chrome exhaust tailpiece and the new Blaupunkt sound system.
The regular Stepway model benefits from the latter too, and is available in two new colours - metallic black and techno-grey.
Prices start at R112 900 for the 1.4 Ambiance, moving up to R129 900 for the 1.6 Dynamique and R149 900 for the 1.6 Stepway and 1.6 Stepway Limited Edition. All models come with a five-year/150 000km warranty (plus roadside assistance) and all but the 1.4 are sold with a three-year/45 000km service plan.