It’s been almost four years since Datsun has official returned to the Rainbow nation, and the Japanese automaker is launching a special edition Datsun GO to commemorate its first fifty months of being back in South Africa.
The GO creatively called the ‘Special Version’, is based on the Lux specification model, and now features Bluetooth and a USB-enabled audio system, while the exterior has been kitted out with some silver and blue decals.
“It’s hard to believe that more than four years have passed since we re-entered South Africa with the affordable Datsun GO. Since then, we have expanded the range with the larger GO+ and GO+ Panel Van, with several additional models on the radar. Many owners gradually personalise their vehicles and it is specifically for them that we have created the Special Version,” says Des Fenner, General Manager for Datsun in South Africa.
Priced from R134 500, the GO is one of the most budget-friendly cars currently on sale in SA. According to the annual Kinsey Report, which ranks vehicles by the cost of their service and repair parts, the Datsun GO is the most affordable vehicle to maintain, repair and run in South Africa.
Following the launch of the GO ‘Special Version’, Datsun will be making a visit to the Nissan and Datsun Museum in Bothaville, where a first edition of the Datsun GO will also be on display. Here, car-collector Freek de Kock has built up a collection of rare and special Datsun and Nissan models that remains unrivalled outside of Nissan’s own vehicle museum in Japan, Zama Garage.
Among the many cars on display are perfectly restored versions of every Datsun and Nissan Skyline GT-R, from the first GT-R Hakosuka to the current R35 Nissan GT-R. The collection also includes several versions of the Datsun SSS Coupé, the Datsun 1200 Coupé and beautifully restored versions of the 240Z.
“We have over 200 models at our museum, of which many are in pristine condition, while others are in different stages of restoration,” says De Kock. “We look forward to welcoming fellow enthusiasts and Datsun fans, especially during this week’s NAMPO show outside of town.”
Also worth a look: the Datsun Go and the 1980 Datsun 160Z.
FAQ
Q: What does the Datsun GO Special Version cost in South Africa?
The Datsun GO Special Version is priced from R134,500, making it one of the most budget-friendly cars you can buy in SA right now.
Q: Is the Datsun GO worth buying in 2024?
If you're after the cheapest possible wheels that won't break the bank to run, absolutely yes - the GO is officially the most affordable vehicle to maintain, repair and run in South Africa according to the annual Kinsey Report.
Q: What's special about the Datsun GO Special Version?
The Special Version is based on the Lux spec and adds Bluetooth connectivity, a USB-enabled audio system, plus some snazzy silver and blue exterior decals to make it stand out from the crowd.
Q: How reliable is the Datsun GO for daily driving?
The GO has proven itself over four years in SA conditions and consistently ranks as the cheapest car to service and repair, which tells you it's built to be practical rather than problematic.
Should You Buy It?
The best budget car under R140,000 in SA is undoubtedly the Datsun GO Special Version at R134,500. If you need basic, reliable transport and every rand counts, this is your answer. Sure, it's not going to win any beauty contests or drag races, but it gets you from A to B without emptying your wallet at the petrol station or service centre. The Special Version sweetens the deal with Bluetooth and USB connectivity, which makes it feel less spartan than the base model. For first-time buyers, students, or anyone who just needs affordable wheels, the GO Special Version is a solid yes.
