Nissan will bring back the Datsun brand and India will receive a new entry-level hatchback as a result.
The Datsun name harks back to the days when the Japanese company had models like the 240Z on offer. While that particular model was essentially styled to be reminiscent of the famed Jaguar E-type, the other Z cars would gain cult status among boy racers and petrolheads alike. The Z line of course was the same as Nissan’s Fairlady Z series, which is available today in its latest avatar – the 370Z.
Datsun’s resurgence will begin with a hatchback in India. Nissan aims to position Datsun as a value brand below their own. Thus, the first offering will be a sub-4 metre hatchback powered by a small petrol engine, in all probability the HR12DE 1.2-litre, three-cylinder unit seen in the Micra, taking full advantage of economies of scale. In terms of size as well, expect the new car to be similar to the Micra. If all goes to plan, the car will be positioned to take on the Hyundai Eon and Maruti-Suzuki Alto. While there are no confirmed dates, more news will follow in the days to come when Nissan officially announces their decision about Datsun.
