The Datsun Go, on the other hand, surprises one with its dynamic ability. Its suspension set-up is just right and the car feels pretty sure-footed while on the go. Body-roll, though perceptible, is under control most of the times. I was surprised to see that even in corners this little car is confident and well-behaved. Ride quality is good and high-speed dynamics are not bad either. However, the steering somehow feels very disconnected as there is not much feel and feedback from it. Brakes too lack proper progression and feel. NVH levels are also far off the mark.
After driving these cars and comparing them for what they are, I was very clear about what I would buy if given a choice among these three. That apart, I found that all three cars have something that will attract buyers. The Bolt offers a lot in terms of space, ride quality and features at a price of Rs 6.99 lakh (OTR, Pune). However, the engine still feels sluggish and unrefined. If you still insist on having a car rich in features and are ready to overlook everything else, then the Bolt is the car for you.
As for the Datsun Go, at 4.69 lakh (OTR, Pune) it offers very little in terms of everything. Agreed, that it drives all right, but that is just one part of the whole package. At that price it fails to deliver even the basic features that a car should come equipped with. The biggest downside to the Datsun Go, however, is that it is not a safe car. One wonders how the Indian government allows it to be sold in the country. Because there are no safety features in the car: no airbags, no ABS, not even self-reclining seat-belts. The structural integrity of the Go is a huge compromise; ask NCAP if you have any doubts.
The Toyota comes across as a complete package among these three. Toyota have worked on the interior quality of the Etios brand, including the Liva, and the current car on sale is better than what it used to be. It may be devoid of a snazzy interior and features that are the highlight of the Bolt, but the simple approach of the Liva is acceptable. At just Rs 11,000 more than the Bolt you get a car with a refined engine, good ride quality, better steering, safety, handling and the Toyota brand-value. These qualities make the Liva the most tempting option among the three and it probably is, otherwise it would not have been the winner of our comparison test.
