Datsun Go

The Datsun Go hatchback got a substantial shot in the arm with 2018’s update that brought with it revised styling, a spruced-up cabin and more equipment. And in a bid to improve the car’s safety image, dual airbags and ABS were also made standard with the update. Vehicle Dynamic Control is also offered as an option. The Datsun Go is available in petrol-manual and petrol-CVT automatic versions.

The Datsun Go hatchback got a substantial shot in the arm with 2018’s update that brought with it revised styling, a ...

The Datsun Go hatchback got a substantial shot in the arm with 2018’s update that brought with it revised styling, a spruced-up cabin and more equipment. And in a bid to improve the car’s safety image, dual airbags and ABS were also made standard with the update. Vehicle Dynamic Control is also offered as an option. The Datsun Go is available in petrol-manual and petrol-CVT automatic versions.

The Datsun Go no longer looks bargain-spec. The updated car’s larger wheels, shapelier bumpers and even bits like the body-coloured mirror casings have helped uplift the look. The smart, new dashboard and individual front seats have had the same impact on the cabin. Still, it’s not a premium space and some cost-cutting is apparent. Space for passengers is fair and the boot is usefully large.
The Datsun Go’s 1.2-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine makes 68hp when allied to the 5-speed manual gearbox and 77hp with the CVT auto. The Go is peppy in town and feels light on its feet. The manual gearbox is a bit notchy while the CVT auto offers a smoother experience than that of like-priced competitors’ AMT autos. Still, the CVT isn’t the best of the type and the gearbox tends to fumble too when you press down hard on the accelerator. There’s more noise than a corresponding increase in speed. Both versions of the engine also lose steam above 80kph.
The Go’s ride and handling package is tuned for city use. The steering is light and the Go’s small dimensions also make it easy to park. However, the Go feels out of its comfort zone at highway speeds and the light body also tends to move about in crosswinds. The ride is also on the firmer side.

The Datsun Go no longer looks bargain-spec. The updated car’s larger wheels, shapelier bumpers and even bits like the...

The Datsun Go no longer looks bargain-spec. The updated car’s larger wheels, shapelier bumpers and even bits like the body-coloured mirror casings have helped uplift the look. The smart, new dashboard and individual front seats have had the same impact on the cabin. Still, it’s not a premium space and some cost-cutting is apparent. Space for passengers is fair and the boot is usefully large.
The Datsun Go’s 1.2-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine makes 68hp when allied to the 5-speed manual gearbox and 77hp with the CVT auto. The Go is peppy in town and feels light on its feet. The manual gearbox is a bit notchy while the CVT auto offers a smoother experience than that of like-priced competitors’ AMT autos. Still, the CVT isn’t the best of the type and the gearbox tends to fumble too when you press down hard on the accelerator. There’s more noise than a corresponding increase in speed. Both versions of the engine also lose steam above 80kph.
The Go’s ride and handling package is tuned for city use. The steering is light and the Go’s small dimensions also make it easy to park. However, the Go feels out of its comfort zone at highway speeds and the light body also tends to move about in crosswinds. The ride is also on the firmer side.

While the CVT auto brings in a dose of convenience to the package, it’s the manual gearbox-equipped Go that comes across as better value.
All versions of the Datsun Go get dual airbags, ABS, EBD and parking sensors as standard. However, it’s the Go in top-spec T(O) trim that gets our vote. It’s the only one with alloy wheels and LED daytime running lights which do much for the look. Also part of the equipment on the T(O) is a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. VDC or Vehicle Dynamic Control uses electronics to maximize stability in inclement weather and is worth the extra money.

While the CVT auto brings in a dose of convenience to the package, it’s the manual gearbox-equipped Go that comes acr...

While the CVT auto brings in a dose of convenience to the package, it’s the manual gearbox-equipped Go that comes across as better value.
All versions of the Datsun Go get dual airbags, ABS, EBD and parking sensors as standard. However, it’s the Go in top-spec T(O) trim that gets our vote. It’s the only one with alloy wheels and LED daytime running lights which do much for the look. Also part of the equipment on the T(O) is a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. VDC or Vehicle Dynamic Control uses electronics to maximize stability in inclement weather and is worth the extra money.