The Datsun brand was legend in the 60s and 70s, becoming market leader between 1976 and 1978. In the 1980s the name was associated with vehicles that offered quality and reliability at an affordable price for their owners.
At an entry price of just R89 500 for the Mid Model and R99 500 for the Lux Model the Datsun GO will therefore be a natural choice for younger, first-time buyers or people looking for a vehicle that could be used as a comfortable, stylish and fuel efficient 'urban run-about', said Des Fenner, general manager of Datsun South Africa.
The Datsun GO will be the first vehicle off the floors of Datsun dealerships that will soon dot the South African landscape. Dealerships across the country are gearing up to open their doors and start selling from 20 October. Sales of the Datsun GO will begin immediately. The vehicles will enjoy the full product and service support expected of one of the world's most renowned names.
The five-speed manual Datsun GO is powered by a DOHC 12-valve, three-cylinder, fuel-injected petrol engine with a displacement of 1 198cc. Maximum power of 50kW is delivered at 5 000rpm, torque is a respectable 104Nm produced at 4 000rpm.
The published fuel consumption 5,2-litres per 100km in a combined urban and rural cycle.
With a wheelbase of 2 450mm, the Datsun GO is 3 785mm from bumper to bumper, 1 485mm high and 1 635mm wide. With a wide stance and class-leading ground clearance of 170mm, the car is said to be stable on the road as well as challenging road surfaces.
Body colours are in five shades: Sky, White, Gray, Silver and Ruby.
The interior of the Datsun GO is modern, simple and functional. The driver's control is through a comfortable, three-spoke steering wheel. A gear shift guide shows the recommended timing for each gear change according to the vehicle speed.
At 265-litres the luggage volume is roomy.
The small, modern and highly efficient three-cylinder engine is fuel efficient with good levels of performance.
The new Datsun has electric power steering (EPS) the system varying the steering assistance needed by monitoring engine and road speed to calculate the torque needed. The turning circle is 4,6m.
Safety features include ventilated front disc brakes.
As well as electric power steering, ventilated disc brakes and leather feel cabin materials, it has a substantial list of advanced equipment to enhance the driving experience.
Reflecting the huge growth in Smartphone ownership, Datsun has equipped Datsun GO with a Mobile Docking Station (MDS) that allows an owner to sync the Smartphone directly with the car. Thus, the owner has access to satellite navigation, hands-free telephone, USB charger, music player and radio all accessed via the Smartphone.
The MDS slots the phone into a holder in the dashboard, which can be paired by an AUX cable to the car's system and the car's integrated loudspeakers.
A wide range of accessories is available through dealers, including a range of decals, branded seat covers, chrome fittings, roof rails, a spoiler and alloy wheels. A three year or 100 000km warranty with roadside assistance comes as standard. And owners can choose from a range of service and maintenance plans to suit their needs.
The GO is due to arrive in George in the course of this week. It will be available from DTM George in Courtenay Street. For more information, phone the dealer on 044 874 5140.
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Roomy enough for the young market or those wanting a general 'runabout' car.
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