Datsun Redigo facelift teaser reveals design changes

Datsun will launch a refreshed version of its entry-level Redigo hatchback in the coming weeks, and the company has revealed certain design elements via teaser images. The Redigo facelift images show a heavily revised frontal design featuring sharper, slimmer headlamps similar to those on its more expensive cousin, the Nissan Kicks SUV. The facelifted Redigo also wears a large octagonal front grille, prominently flaunting the Datsun logo, with a chrome surround. The large L-shaped DRLs are all-new and are much more prominent compared to the tiny optional ones that feature on the outgoing version. The updated Redigo might also get alloy wheels, an addition that also came with the refreshed Go and Go+. Other new bits include the outside mirrors, which seem to be more robust than the ones on the existing version, as well as a plaque with the Datsun badge on the front fenders. Expect minor changes to the rear design of the car too - one of the images shows a rear spoiler.

There’s not much more information that can be derived from the images, except that the car’s overall tall-boy design remains unchanged, resulting in a massive sense of space on the inside. The interiors of the car are also likely to get some revisions, and going by the trend in its segment, a touchscreen as well as a passenger-side airbag could also make it to the equipment list. What is certain, however, is that this new Redigo will comply with Indian crash test norms as well as the upcoming pedestrian protection standards.

As far as the engines go, expect BS6 versions of the 0.8-litre and 1.0-litre petrol engines with a 5-speed manual. The latter will also be available with an automated manual transmission (AMT). Redigo facelift prices, along with ARAI-certified fuel efficiency figures, will be revealed soon.

The Datsun Redigo’s biggest competitor is the Maruti Alto that’s priced between Rs 2.95 and Rs 3.90 lakh for the petrol and Rs 4.33 and 4.36 lakh for the CNG version. Then there’s the Renault Kwid - prices range between Rs 2.92-4.22 lakh for the 0.8-litre model, between Rs 4.42-4.50 lakh for the 1.0-litre petrol-manual and between Rs 4.72-4.80 lakh for the 1.0L-AMT version. Higher variants of the Redigo will also compete against the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso that costs between Rs 3.71 lakh and Rs 4.99 lakh. Expect the updated Datsun Redigo to carry an aggressive starting price tag.

Earlier we had reported that Nissan is planning to phase out the Datsun brand in India gradually and this process is likely to take until 2022 or 2023, so the Redigo is most likely the last heavily updated offering from Datsun. The all-new Datsun compact SUV (codename: EM2) will be launched under the Nissan brand, as confirmed by a company official.

All prices, ex-showroom, Delhi