Datsun GOing in the right direction

Since the Datsun GO arrived on the scene in 2014, it didn’t take long for the public to be convinced, especially at the price it was offered at. The motoring media, however, reserved their opinions until the Global NCAP crash test results returned and it wasn’t good. Despite this, the vehicle continued to grow in popularity amongst first-time car buyers but in the end, Datsun did heed to the call for more safety features.

GO outside

The Datsun retains the updated bumpers at the front and rear and the new grill which was introduced in November 2018. In fact, for the most part, the exterior is identical except for the addition of CVT moniker on the rear boot lid. While some might pull their nose up to the GO, I, however, quite like the exterior styling. It is clean and simple and the vertical daytime running lights fitted on the lower front bumper of the LUX grade variants give a modern theme to the vehicle. The body colour side mirrors, door handles adds to the more premium feel provided by the 14-inch wheels which have both exposed metal surfaces as well as surfaces finished in a glossy black.

GO inside

The Lux variant we had on the test also comes fitted with a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, occupants can also utilise the Bluetooth or USB input if they prefer. Further bolstering the upgraded interior is front and rear power windows, electric power steering, electrically adjustable mirrors and redesigned seats for the driver and front passenger. The driver also benefits from an independent tachometer. While for the interior is comfortable and for the most part, looks modern with the silver finishes on the aircon dial, vent and door handles, it remains plagued by hard plastics and road noise on the highways, a common occurrence with vehicles in this segment.

Although the new models come with traction control, two airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist that features as standard and the new CVT models with a Vehicle Dynamic Control stability control system and is very much appreciated. I, however, still think more safety features should be added, like the six airbags found in the Peugeot 108, as a majority of these vehicles will be purchased and piloted by first-time buyers and ultimately inexperienced drivers.

GO anywhere

Under the bonnet is a 1.2-litre petrol engine that produces 50 kW and 104 N.m of torque which proved ample for a vehicle of this nature over my test period. The motor is mated to a five-step CVT gearbox, a configuration I usually don’t like but in this instance made for a convincing case, compared to the AMT transmissions found in some of its rivals. Further bolstering its budget buy credentials was the combined fuel consumption return of 5.2L/100km. Given that the Datsun GO will be used mostly in urban and populated areas, I found the drive quite compliant and the road noise not as intrusive. It is only when you drive on national routes where the noise becomes more pronounced. A characteristic I appreciated the most was how surefooted the GO felt around corners, especially when compared with the Renault Kwid.

Verdict

After spending a week commuting to the office with the GO, I recognized why it has become a popular vehicle within its segment. While previously the GO had its shortfalls, Datsun has made great progress in eliminating the problems plaguing its reputation. Am I convinced of the safety features? While it offers much more than it did originally, I do still think vehicles like the Peugeot 108 makes a strong case for more standard safety features for vehicles in this segment. Ultimately the Datsun GO has come a long way and at R 192 000, the confident driving characteristics and frugality make this an ideal option for first-time buyers.