Nissan Datsun Go Review – autoX

When on the drawing boards, the Go hatchback from Datsun was supposed to bring back the brand from non-existence. The Go was aimed at the entry-level budget hatchback segment but didn’t take off as planned for so many reasons – one of them being the fact that it scored a zero-star crash test rating by Global NCAP. However, that hasn’t had Datsun pull the plug on its little baby; instead, they’ve been fine-tuning it over the years; the most recent update being a revamped exterior, more features and a reworked cabin, as our Nissan Datsun Go review further reveals…

The alterations to the exterior are more than apparent. The large, hexagonal grille gets the new mesh, but the re-shaped bumper is most prominent. It looks sharper and edgier, giving the Go a sporty look from up-front. You’ll notice the new LED DRLs as well. The wheels are larger too at 14-inches, and go a long way in giving the Go a better stance. Also new are the diamond-cut alloy wheels, while the ORVMS are body-colored. The roof rails, on the other hand, look like there’s a bit too much of showboating going on here. At the rear, the bumper has been redesigned, while there is also a strip of chrome on the lower portion of the tailgate and the addition of a rear wiper is welcome. We also particularly liked the Amber Orange on our test car.

Step into the cabin, and you’re greeted by an all-new dashboard, a lot of other details and new front seats too. The instrument cluster gets an analog tachometer as well. The most important addition, however, is the 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that gets Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The system is fairly smooth and easy to operate. Gone are the joined seats for the front passenger; there are now individual seats that are quite comfortable and provide decent support. There’s also a proper handbrake placed in between the front seats. Space at the rear is alright, but there is a lack of proper bolstering. The 265-liter boot is quite large and can swallow in a whole bunch of shopping bags.

The new Go is powered by the same 1.2-liter, three-cylinder petrol engine that makes 68hp and 104Nm of torque. Paired to the engine is a 5-speed transmission. Performance is more than sufficient for urban use, but it’s only when you hit 2000rpm, do you feel like the Go has the pep. On the highway, however, the engine tends to struggle. Brake hard, and the Go begins to feel like it isn’t planted enough. Ride quality, on the other hand, is a bit on the firm side. Massive speed breakers are never an issue, thanks to the 180mm of ground clearance. Refinement levels have improved to an extent as well.

At a price range of Rs 3.29 lakh to Rs 4.89 lakh, the new Datsun Go gives you a lot more car for your money, as mentioned in our Go car review. ABS, EBD, airbags and brake assist are now part of the package and make the Go a far more appealing proposition.

Do look out for our in-depth Datsun Go review for more details.