MOTORING NEWS - Studying at university is probably one of the most exciting, but busiest times in a young life. Parents worry, though, so acquiring a trusty vehicle for the student becomes a subject of discussion. Of course, it needs to be within a reasonable budget. The recently updated Datsun GO might be the perfect car to help the dedicated student get to class, study sessions or even part-time work. Datsun's main attraction is the promise of personal mobility and freedom.
The new model is zippy, fuel-efficient, stylish, spacious, safe and affordable.
It is also easy to handle, with electric power steering and a turning circle of just 4,6 metres for fitting into parking spots on a busy campus. Reverse parking sensors activate an audible beeping warning when reverse gear is engaged, helping younger, less experienced drivers avoid bumps and scrapes while reversing.
Speed-sensitive electric steering calculates how much assistance is needed, based on the speed of travel. It offers light steering effort at low speed and firm steering effort at high speed. This makes for anxiety-free, smooth driving for those who only recently got their driver's license.
The perky compact car has an energetic 1,2-litre petrol engine that produces 50kW at 5 000rpm and 104Nm at 4 000rpm, paired with a smooth five-speed manual transmission.
The new Datsun GO also has impressive fuel efficiency, with an official consumption of 5,2 litres per 100km in the combined cycle.
IN TOUCH
The new Datsun GO comes standard with a trendy 7" touch infotainment screen that links to a smartphone through Android Auto and Apple Car Play connectivity. This allows access to features such as music, messages and maps - much safer than using a phone in traffic. Bluetooth and USB connections are part of the package. Standard specification includes coloured electric side mirrors, reverse parking sensor, intermittent wipers, central locking, an immobiliser, ABS, driver and passenger airbags, and retractable seat belts. It has 14" wheels and the front grille and rear bumper have been redesigned.
The new Datsun GO is nimble but spacious, with enough room to pack up at the end of term and drive home for the holidays. Having a five-seat hatchback also means passengers would be comfortable. It is a small car, but hardly poky.
RUNNING COSTS
Students should keep in mind that car ownership comes with other costs besides the purchase price. Datsun helps ease these burdens as every Datsun GO comes standard with a three year or 100 000km warranty and an optional service plan. In addition, consumers will receive one year of insurance with the purchase of a GO.
In 2018, for the third consecutive year, the Datsun GO was declared South Africa's most affordable entry-level car for parts in all three sections - service, repair and crash parts - by the Kinsey report. The annual Kinsey report is regarded as the most comprehensive survey on everyday motoring and covers a wide range of vehicles available locally.
Prices for the new Datsun GO start at R144 500.
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