Datsun Go! Thoughts

Confirmed: Updated Datsun Go to offer ABS and two airbags

Earlier in October 2018, we reported that the facelifted Datsun Go (revealed in Indonesia in May) was due arrive in South Africa in mid-November boasting “extra safety”. Now we can confirm that all local Go and Go+ derivatives will come standard with ABS and two airbags.

For the record, the outgoing variants each feature a single airbag (the airbag-less base model was quietly removed from the local range at the start of 2018) and do without ABS.

We’ve also learned the updated Go will come with rear parking sensors. In addition, the top-spec model will boast a new infotainment system (this is expected to be offered on the base version as well for a limited time from launch) supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and ride on 14-inch alloys, as opposed to the steelies used by the current variants.

The mid-cycle update will furthermore bring fresh front (now with integrated LED daytime running lights rather than foglamps) and rear bumpers as well as redesigned headlamps. Inside, expect to find an updated instrument cluster and redesigned air-conditioning vents.

The naturally aspirated 1,2-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine is carried over unchanged, and still delivers 50 kW and 104 N.m to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. A new continuously variable transmission (CVT) looks set to be offered in South Africa, but will likely arrive only at a later stage.

Pricing will be announced closer to launch, but expect a small increase over the current figures (which run from R138 900 for the Flash-branded hatchback to R157 100 for the Go+ panel van).

https://www.carmag.co.za/news/confirmed-updated-datsun-go-offer-abs-airbags/

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Coming soon to SA: Datsun's new budget-friendly GO and GO+ will now have dual airbags, ABS and parking sensor

Datsun says it's launching a new GO and GO+, which have a range of enhanced features, to South Africa.

Wheels24's Janine Van der Post attended a sneak preview of the new models earlier this week and shares some details ahead of the launch which she will be attending later in November.

"Since launching in South Africa in 2014, Datsun has seen significant success in the local A segment. Yet, the company is committed to continued innovation with technologically advanced features to dominate this competitive segment", says the automaker.

Popular A-segment choice

The new Datsun GO retains the same dimensions and engines as the outgoing model but, says the automaker, it's a new vehicle packed with loads of improved features.

Locally, the GO sells volumes each month; In September 2018, NAAMSA reported that the automaker sold 485 GO models and 217 GO+ models.

The people have spoken and Datsun has taken its customers' feedback to heart with a new design and value-added features.

The GO has two front airbags (driver and passenger), and it's now fitted with ABS - both features which were previously unavailable. There are also larger 14" wheels while the top grade will feature alloys, as well as a full spare wheel. The centre-console mounted gear-lever and the front "love seat" which was sort of a tribute to the Datsun models of yesteryear, is no more. The gear lever has been moved between the two front seats (where it should've been) and the awkward double front seat is gone forever

There are now power windows all round, electric-adjustable side-mirrors, full dashboard and instrument cluster twaks, central locking, and the addition of daytime running lights. There's even a reverse parking sensor.

In the previous model you could only open the boot by pulling the lever inside the vehicle (located on the floor), the new model sports a boot lock/open.

Another highlight, and probably the biggest new feature, is that Android functionality and Apple CarPlay will be offered as standard equipment for the first six months of the new model being introduced to the market across the GO and GO+ range. Thereafter, it will be an optional add-on while a single-dim radio unit will be standard.

While Datsun South Africa is keeping mum on the pricing, which currently starts from R138 900, they have indicated that the new price will "only be a marginal increase", making the GO one of the most affordable entry cars available.

The Datsun GO+ features all the same new additions and it also has an improved turning circle which we experienced in a bit of gymkhana fun.

While we will have to wait for the launch to feel what it really drives like, it most certainly already feels more refined just from the bit of dynamic handling experienced.

Kabelo Rabotho, Nissan South Africa Marketing Director, said: "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."

In a short space of time, the Datsun GO has become a firm favourite in South Africa and the stylish new models are sure to be just as popular.

More details about pricing and spec information will be released soon.

https://www.wheels24.co.za/NewModel...-dual-airbags-abs-and-parking-sensor-20181024

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Revised Datsun Go imminent

Datsun will launch a significantly reworked version of its Go budget car line-up in South Africa during the next few weeks. Though exact pricing and some of the detail remain unclear at this point, we've had a preview drive in what now appears to be a far more convincing offering.


Since its return to South Africa in 2014, the reborn Datsun brand has done steady business, with nearly 20 000 units of its Go and Go+ sold locally. It's interesting to note that sales this year (up-to-and-including September), have already surpassed the marque's previous annual best performance. So, in the tough current economic climate, the cheap and cheerful Go (and its 7-seater Go+ sibling) have certainly found favour with local consumers.
From launch, however, the Go has often been criticised for its lack of safety features, particularly in a segment where it is likely to be purchased by relatively inexperienced buyers. Now, with the facelifted version, Datsun will address this concern as it tries to reposition the brand as slightly more aspirational and in tune with modern consumers' needs and desires.

Fresher styling inside and out

The Go's design revisions are both obvious and effective, giving the little hatch a far edgier and modern look. There are vertical LED daytime running lights on both Go variants, and the front and rear bumpers are more "chiselled" in their appearance. Wheel size has gone up to 14 inches on both variants, with the flagship Go also getting alloys.
The bigger changes are arguably to be found inside, where Datsun has given the Go a far more upmarket-looking facia. Gone are the front bench seat and umbrella handbrake, for example, and there is a noticeable improvement in attention to detail, too.

Extensive safety and infotainment features

At launch, both models will be fitted with classy touch-screen infotainment systems that even feature Android Auto/Apple CarPlay functionality. Once the launch promotional campaign has run its course, this system will still feature on the flagship model. The pricier Go variant also gets a rear window wash/wiper feature, and fitted to all models is a new tailgate lock – in the previous model the tailgate could only be opened from inside the car.
On the safety side, consumers will be happy to hear that all models will now be sold with dual front airbags and ABS. This is a significant step forward, but it remains to be seen what structural changes have been made to the Go. You may recall that at the time of the Go's original crash testing by Global NCAP it was stated that the car's structure was so weak that airbags would not provide sufficient occupant protection. We'll learn more about any structural changes in the coming weeks (we're told there are reinforcements behind the facia, for example), but it's also worth noting that the revised model further features upgraded rear safety belts as well as rear park sensors.

No engine change

Powering the Go is the same 1.2L 3-cylinder engine that develops 50kW and 104Nm of torque. Datsun claims a fuel consumption figure of 5.2L/100km. A CVT-equipped version is likely to join the currently all-manual line-up at a later date. At this point there has been no official pricing statement from Datsun, but a spokesperson has indicated that the increase will be "marginal". The revised Datsun Go will be available from dealers from around mid-November.

https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/revised-datsun-go-imminent/45747/
 
I like how people are simply rejecting a car because of its safety issues, no wonder the world is filled with these mamby pamby little crying bitches. Screwed we are I tell you.
 
I like how people are simply rejecting a car because of its safety issues, no wonder the world is filled with these mamby pamby little crying bitches. Screwed we are I tell you.
I don't know about the others but I reject it for it's price, I expect to pay far less than R100k for such mediocrity.
 
I don't know about the others but I reject it for it's price, I expect to pay far less than R100k for such mediocrity.

I just want a Nissan Champ, seriously considering getting rid of my Corsa for one of those. Just love them for some reason.
 
I don't know about the others but I reject it for it's price, I expect to pay far less than R100k for such mediocrity.

problem is with the taxes, and with the shipping fees, as well as greed, its more than 100K,

how much does this little gem cost in india? I bet less than 100K equivalent.
 
I understand the selling price makes it very attractive to some, but honestly I would rather buy a decent similar second hand car before the Go.

My sister-in-law is visiting from Cape Town and got one as a rental, I couldn't believe how bad the quality is...tinny doors, lack of proper sound insulation, etc. It really feels dirt cheap.

And no tachometer in 2018? Eish...
 
I understand the selling price makes it very attractive to some, but honestly I would rather buy a decent similar second hand car before the Go.

My sister-in-law is visiting from Cape Town and got one as a rental, I couldn't believe how bad the quality is...tinny doors, lack of proper sound insulation, etc. It really feels dirt cheap.

And no tachometer in 2018? Eish...

I was shocked you cant open the boot from the outside, and even more shocked by the grinding of gears when you downshift.
 
I understand the selling price makes it very attractive to some, but honestly I would rather buy a decent similar second hand car before the Go.

My sister-in-law is visiting from Cape Town and got one as a rental, I couldn't believe how bad the quality is...tinny doors, lack of proper sound insulation, etc. It really feels dirt cheap.

And no tachometer in 2018? Eish...
I would say that is an easy place to save money as it really is not needed to drive a car.
 
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