Dacia

Australians could soon have a choice of a new and relatively unknown budget brand – Dacia, the low-cost offshoot of French giant Renault – initially with a small car and an SUV. At this early stage it is unclear whether the vehicles will be sold through a dealer network or sold online at fixed prices. There is also a chance the vehicles could be sold under the Dacia or the Renault brand.

The Dacia Bigster concept has been revealed, previewing an upcoming, C-segment mid-size SUV due to launch before the middle of the decade. Unveiled as part of parent company Groupe Renault's 'Renaulution' business plan announcement this week, the Bigster Concept measures 4.6 metres long, slotting it into the larger end of the mid-size SUV segment, just 30mm shorter than the long-wheelbase, new-generation Hyundai Tucson.

Good news! The 2021 Dacia Sandero and Stepway models have been officially launched for the European market, however it’s unlikely Australian showrooms will see the all-new cars anytime soon. Now in its third generation, the Sandero has been built by the Renault-owned Romanian manufacturer since 2007. The standard hatchback is 4099mm long, has a 328-litre boot, and features 15-inch wheels.

Departments overseeing cooperation between Nissan and Renault are reportedly losing staff, or have nothing to do. Sources have told the Financial Times the departments within the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance overseeing cooperation and joint functions are either being axed completely, or have gone without work assignments for months. The alliance departments overseeing sales and marketing, communications, and light commercial vehicles are said to be shrinking and dismissing staff.

Osamu Masuko, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors, will step down from his role as CEO when the company meets for its annual general meeting on June 21, 2019. He will be replaced by Takao Kato, who is the president of Mitsubishi Motors Indonesia. Masuko (above) will stay with the automaker as its chairman. Both men will hold a press conference on May 20, Japan time, to discuss the change of leadership.