Datsun, Renault-Nissan’s entry car brand, have formally launched the much anticipated Go hatchback in India.
The Datsun Go marks the arrival of the alliance in the sub-compact hatch segment and features a basic but well put-together package in terms of design and finish. The angular styling elements and accents should go down well with potential buyers, as will the competitive price tag.
At the heart of the Go is the 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol motor from the Nissan Micra, in a slightly lower state of tune where the peak power comes in much earlier – 68 PS at 5,000 RPM to be precise – and peak torque is a considerable 104 Nm at 4,000 RPM. A 5-speed manual transmission drives the front wheels. Considering that the Go will go up against the likes of the Maruti-Suzuki Alto 800 and Hyundai Eon, Datsun have provided a motor which means business.
The Go has been launched three trims: D, A and T. There’s an option pack for the base D trim, the D1, which adds a bit more to the bare bones configuration in the form of a passenger-side ORVM and map pockets and bottle holders for the doors. The D and D1 don’t feature an air-conditioner or power steering. The Go T on the other hand packs speed-sensitive electric power steering, front power windows, manual central locking and a mobile docking station with Aux-in, USB and front speaker.
The car is now available from Rs 3.12 lakh for the base Go D, with the Go A costing Rs 3.46 lakh, and the top-end Go T going up to Rs 3.7 lakh, all ex-showroom, Delhi. The car is available from Rs 3.46 lakh to Rs 4.40 lakh (OTR, Mumbai). The Datsun Go will be sold through Nissan dealerships across the country.
Story: Jim Gorde
Images: Gaurav Nagpal
