The Datsun Go Range
It feels like the other day we announced the launch of the Datsun Go and Datsun Go Plus. First launched in India, these compact and exciting twins certainly made an impact abroad and here in South Africa.
The updated versions were given fresh styling that made them even more appealing if that’s even possible. It didn’t stop there either as the cabin design is also more functional with a few additional features. In terms of the powertrain, the Datsun Go and Datsun Go Plus have kept the zippy and economical 1.2-litre engine. We take a look at the top five facts you should know about the Datsun Go duo available in South Africa.
1. Proudly Manufactured In India
Both the Datsun Go and the Datsun Go Plus models sold in South Africa are manufactured at the Renault Nissan plant in Chennai, India. Initially, the Datsun Go lacked some features and safety but since then, much has changed.
Both of these cars show good quality of plastics and trims which are identical to the version sold in India. This is a big positive for Datsun as it’s not the case for some other brands. Too often, the export models offer superior quality than the domestic markets so kudos to Datsun for making a difference.
2. Pricing For The Datsun Go and Datsun Go Plus
The updated Datsun Go cost R144 500 (Rs.7.39 lakh) while the Datsun Go Plus tops off at R175 900 (Rs. 9lakh) with some added extras. Pricing for the 2018 Datsun Go and Go Plus in India costs around Rs. 3.29 lakh and Rs 3.83 lakh respectively. Considering all the added features, new styling and fuel economy, they are the epitome of what budget cars should be. We’ll look at some of the features in the next section.
3. Features And Styling
Similar to the model in India, the upgraded Datsun Go and Datsun Go Plus show off a new grille, revamped bumper design with LED DRLs. They now also have large 14-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels and nifty rear parking sensors. The addition of ABS and airbags have had a positive impact which should help boost sales even further.
On the inside, the cabin is equipped with a 7-inch Blaupunkt touchscreen infotainment system with Apple Car Play and Android Auto which is great for streaming music. The sound system is paired with two speakers with Bluetooth and USB connectivity as well.
4. Power And Performance
As mentioned earlier, the Datsun Go and the Datsun Go Plus still use the 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. It is the same as the model sold in India and for good reason, as the powertrain has always been something Datsun excelled at.
The Datsun Go and Go Plus produce 50 kW (68 HP) with 104 Nm of torque which may not sound like much but it is a lightweight vehicle and doesn’t need much to pull away. Power goes to the front wheels through a 5-speed manual gearbox claiming an average fuel economy of 5.2 l/100 km. Datsun South Africa also offers drivers a 3-year / 100 000 km warranty for both vehicles.
5. Competition
Looking at the closest rivals in the budget car segment in India, the Datsun Go and Go Plus competes with the Hyundai Eon, Maruti Suzuki Wagon R and Maruti Suzuki Alto K10. In South Africa, the duo’s rivals include the Kia Picanto, Volkswagen Up and the Renault Kwid, also manufactured in India. As far as budget cars go, the pricing seems just right with loads of style, attitude and features missing from the previous models. You can’t go wrong with either of these two whether you drive around town or the open road.
If you liked reading this article, please keep reading our blog for all the latest in motoring from around the world. You can also visit our website for more information or to book a test drive of your favourite Datsun.
Tags: Datsun
