MOTORING NEWS - Datsun told us they were excited to launch the new Datsun GO and GO+ models and the motoring scribes of South Africa were likewise very curious to see how the new models would fare after some scathing criticism on passenger and driver safety of the first generation car.
Opinions were divided between those who supported the longing for new wheels and those who stressed that safety trumps every other desire.
The fact remains that cars are expensive and that price rules - so the Datsun GO quickly went up the sales charts to become one of the top ten.
Autodealer's readers may find it interesting to know that I have had many conversations with these owners wherever they could be found. To a man (and woman) they were all delighted with their purchase.
So to lead with the conclusion - it is probably the buyer's choice, provided an informed decision is made.
But the really good news is that the new Datsun GO has stepped up dramatically. The manufacturer has heeded the market and the new models now have an anti-locking brake system and driver airbag.
"Our new Datsun GO and GO+ represent a new experience for consumers. With its fresh looks, modern features and advanced technologies, the new Datsun vehicles are made for progressive, ambitious customers with a sense of style," said Nissan SA marketing director, Kabelo Rabotho.
The cheeky modern looks of the vehicle means it will stand out in a crowd and inside there are smart features usually found in more expensive vehicles.
Moreover, the GO and GO+ models have a low cost of ownership thanks to parts affordability as measure annually by local guru Malcolm Kinsey.
The GO has a redesigned front grille and bumpers and is powered by a willing 1,2-litre petrol engine that produces 50kW at 5 000rpm and 104Nm at 4 000rpm paired with a smooth 5-speed manual transmission.
The GO has responsive steering thanks to an electric system which calculates the amount of assistance required based on vehicle speed to offer light steering effort at low speed and firm steering effort at high speed. The ease of driving was noticeable during the sedate morning traffic drive as well as on the motorway where, the Datsun was comfortable and quiet despite some bad Gauteng roads.
The new Datsun GO benefits from impressive official fuel consumption figures from the 1,2-litre engine, which has a combined consumption of 5,2 litres per 100km.
The Datsun GO has a class-leading turning circle of just 4,6m, which is perfect for city driving.
Standard specification includes coloured electric side mirrors, reverse parking sensors, intermittent wipers, central locking, an immobiliser, ABS, driver and passenger airbags, and retractable seatbelts, while the LUX grade benefits from daytime running lights, a rear wiper with washer and body colour door handles.
Customising is easy thanks to several new Datsun approved accessories for performance, durability, quality and support. For even better looks there is everything from 15" alloys to roof spoilers and more.
The new Datsun GO benefits from impressive official fuel consumption figures from the 1,2-litre engine, which has a combined consumption of 5,2 litres per 100km. The Datsun GO comes with a standard three year or 100 000km warranty and an optional service plan. In addition, consumers will receive one year's insurance with the purchase. Pricing are as follows: Datsun GO Mid Spec - R144 500 and Datsun GO Lux Spec - R165 500.
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