Datsun has launched its Go hatchback today at a starting price of Rs 3.12 lakh, which plonks this Micra-sized hatchback right in Maruti Alto and Hyundai Eon territory. The new Datsun Go is available in three variants - D, A and T - and in four colours.

The base D trim, priced at Rs 3.12 lakh, is available in two versions, D and D1. The difference between the D and D1 trim is that the D1 variant gets a left wing mirror, and bottle holders and map pockets in the front doors, while the D doesn't.  What you do get on all trims though are follow-me-home headlamps, a digital trip computer, gear shift guide, engine immobiliser and a speed-sensitive wiper. Power steering, front power windows and central locking, however, are only available on the top T trim.

Since it's a budget hatchback targeted primarily at first-time car buyers, the base D trim of the Datsun Go comes with the bare essentials. You get black bumpers instead of body coloured ones, manual wind-down windows, and no power steering, air conditioning or music system.  

The middle A trim, priced at 3.46 lakh, adds to the list air conditioning and Jacquard seat upholstery. 

The top-end Go T, priced at Rs 3.69 lakh, has all the features of the middle A variant and additionally gets front power windows, electric power steering, body-coloured bumpers, central locking, wheel covers, and a two-speaker audio system with only aux-in compatibility (there's not even a radio), a mobile phone stand, a USB port for charging only. 

The Go is powered by a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, and Datsun is claiming an ARAI-rated fuel efficiency figure of 20.63kpl. Nissan hopes that Datsun cars will account for at least one third or as much as half of its total India sales.

Customers can book the Go from any of Nissan's 125 dealerships and the company will also take care of servicing Datsun cars from its workshops. The Go comes with complimentary road-side assistance and an 2-year unlimited km warranty.