Despite coming in for a lot of slack due to its lack of safety equipment, the Datsun GO has been a sales revelation since it launched back in 2014 in South Africa, epitomizing affordable, no frills motoring.
And even though Datsun has sold nearly 25,000 units of the compact car, they are listening to what their customers want, and took steps to try remedy the situation of lack of safety tech, by including a single airbag for the driver – which earned it a single star NCAP crash rating, while the airbag-less model was discontinued from the range in early 2018.
Datsun has now launched a revised GO and GO+ that has been lightly refreshed with new colour options, 14-inch alloy wheels, new front bumpers, headlights with DRLs, and a revised rear bumper too. Even the side mirrors have been tweaked to now gain integrated indicators. Aside from the spacious 5-seater hatchback and the GO+ is a versatile 7-seater, the GO is now also offered as an affordable panel van.
“Our new Datsun GO and GO+ represent a new experience for consumers. With its fresh looks, modern features and advanced technologies, the new Datsun vehicles are made for progressive, ambitious customers with a sense of style,” said Nissan SA Marketing Director, Kabelo Rabotho.
Standard specification for the Renault Kwid rival now includes coloured electric side mirrors, intermittent wipers, central locking, an immobiliser, driver and passenger airbags, and retractable seatbelts while the LUX grade benefits from daytime running lights, a rear wiper with washer and body colour door handles.
Inside, the new GO and GO+ have Android Auto and Apple Car Play connectivity (as standard during the launch period), Bluetooth and USB, a glove box lid, front and rear power windows, electric power steering, electrically adjustable mirrors, redesigned individual seats for the driver and front passenger. The LUX grade GO models have an independent tachometer and a silver finish on the aircon dial, vent and door handles.
The biggest talking point though, is that it will come with dual front airbags, ABS and EBD, and rear parking sensors as standard fitment. The little GO also boasts a class-leading turning circle of just 4.6metres, which is perfect for city driving. Datsun is now also offering a whole range of approved aftermarket bits including 15” alloys to roof spoilers, and more.
Datsun claims that the car has been strengthened with the addition of more reinforcements in the chassis to comply with newer crash test regulations. That, together with the additional airbag, and other extras have added an extra 100kgs of weight to the car. The compact car retains its 1198cc three-cylinder petrol motor with 50kw and 104nm, which is paired with a 5-speed manual as standard. Datsun claim fuel economy figures of 5.2L/100kms.
Kabelo Rabotho, was further quoted as saying, “We are focused on giving our customers the best service while providing high-quality vehicles that serve the needs of everyone; from first-time buyers to entrepreneurs and also senior citizens, who love our reliable cars.”
Datsun GO Mid Spec R144 500
Datsun GO Lux Spec R165 500
Datsun GO+ 7-seater Mid R154 200
Datsun GO+ 7-seater Lux R175 900
Datsun GO+ Panel Van R155 200
As standard, the Datsun GO and GO+ models come with a 3-year/100,000km warranty and an optional service plan. In addition, consumers will receive one-year insurance with the purchase of a GO or GO+.
