Datsun Go, Go+ facelift: 5 things to know

The Datsun Go hatchback and Go+ mini-MPV have been on sale since 2014. While these models have got mild tweaks over time, they’ve just received their first full update. Here are five things you should know about the refreshed models.

They’ve got a visual makeover

The Datsun’s exteriors have received plenty of changes. Their revamped front-ends feature more shapely bumpers, the grilles get a new mesh and top-spec models also feature LED DRLs. Larger, 14-inch wheels (alloy wheels, on the top-spec trim) have also done much to help the stance of the cars. At the rear, both Datsuns get a new bumper and a newly added windscreen wiper. Additionally, they get new body colours – the hatchback gets a new orange scheme and the MPV gets a new brown colour.

Heavily reworked interior

Datsun has given the interiors a major refresh. The redesigned dashboard gets reprofiled central AC vents and the glove compartment sees a long overdue addition of a lid. An analogue tachometer has been added to the instrument cluster as well but it’s the new 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system (featuring Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity) which is the highlight on higher variants. Creature comforts like electrically adjustable exterior mirrors and power windows on all doors have also made their way inside the cabin.

Of other notable changes, the ‘connected front seats’ have been replaced by individual seats for the driver and passenger, which allows for the handbrake to shift from the centre console to the now free space between the two front seats. Sadly, the adjustable headrests for the rear seat occupants are still missing.  

More safety kit

The Datsun Go was at the centre of a storm soon after launch, when Global NCAP rated the car with zero stars in its crash test. Datsun says the updated Go and Go+ meet India’s latest crash test norms, and has also given the cars a more loaded safety kit ahead of the features becoming mandatory on all cars next year. Dual front airbags, ABS, EBD and rear parking sensors are now standard across the whole variant line-up. This gives the Go a significant leg-up over its competitors like Maruti Suzuki Celerio and Tata Tiago, which do not offer these safety features as standard as yet.

Engine-gearbox options remain unchanged

Datsun's facelift is primarily a cosmetic one, with no changes seen under the hood. The hatchback and MPV both continue to be powered by a 1.2-litre three-pot petrol engine churning out 68hp and 104Nm of torque. Transmission duties are handled by a 5-speed manual gearbox. There is no official confirmation on an automatic gearbox option so far.

They are more value-for-money now

With the introduction of the updates, Datsun is trying to position the Go and Go+ as more premium offerings. However, prices for the base and mid-spec versions haven’t changed much. The new top-spec trim cars are more expensive; but given the equipment they come with, they come across as being well-priced. Updated Datsun Go prices range from Rs 3.29-4.89 lakh while the Go+ costs Rs 3.83-5.69 lakh.