First Drive: Datsun Go Lux 1.2 CVT – Always in the right gear
The entry-level hatch segment has been a very busy space the last few weeks. Manufacturers who have offerings in this segment have been furiously launching vehicles, bringing new and facelifted models to market, each with their own pro’s and con’s. We were on hand to test the latest offering from Datsun, their all new CVT.
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Launched in 2014, the Go quickly became a low-cost favourite amongst consumers who needed a dependable mode of transport that wouldn’t break the bank. It did however raise the hackles of many in the industry due to its lacklustre safety report and build quality.
Datsun went back to the drawing board and released an updated version, addressing some of those issues and have since done the same again, only now, the Datsun Go comes with an option that its competitors don’t have, a Continuous Variable Transmission.
Interior treatment
Not much has changed within the new Datsun Go. Standard fitment on the Lux derivative sees electric windows front and rear, power steering, a slight increase in space for passengers as well as extra space for water bottles in the doors.
Outside of that the Go gets a 7” touchscreen with Apple Car Play / Android Auto featuring voice command.
Exterior changes
On the outside the Go also gets a few slight tweaks. You now get 14” alloy wheels, an updated black and chrome grille, welcome home headlamps and a few new colour options such as the Vivid blue we drove on launch.
Safety first
The safety of vehicles in this class has always been a point of contention. The Go holds its own with driver and passenger airbags upfront, seatbelt reminder, rear parking sensors, ABS and EBD and their own VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control). Continuous updates to the structure and build quality have also been undertaken meaning that the latest Go has the safest body structure yet.
The Drive
Our launch route took us through urban centres, along freeways and tackling stop/start traffic. This allowed us to get a very good idea of how the CVT handled everyday driving in the city.
I am pleased to report the Go did very well across all these areas with the 1.2l petrol engine doing an excellent job tied to the CVT. It is a CVT, so there is a drone of sorts but this was easily remedied by modulating the throttle input. Once up to a decent highway speed the drone tapered off and the drive became very pleasant indeed.
Don’t expect immediate throttle response though. There is a bit of a delay between the time you put your foot down and the Go actually moving off but one does become accustomed to this relatively quickly and you compensate.
As far as the power figures are concerned the Go’s 1.2 petrol delivers 104Nm and 87kW but coupled to the CVT actually drops your fuel consumption and increases your power output by 7kW over the manual option.
Models and pricing
Datsun Go 1.2 Mid - R 159 100
Datsun Go 1.2 Lux - R 170 200
Datsun Go 1.2 CVT - R 184 200
The Datsun Go is sold with a 6 year / 150 000km warranty and 1 years subsidised insurance.
Verdict
The Go does seem to have a better build quality than others in the segment but its pricing is something of a concern. It does not have a lot of standard feature fitment and lacks some of the things that consumers now expect in their cars. The Go represents the middle of the road in this segment as it isn’t overly premium but its excellent build quality and ride take it a step above its competitors in this segment.
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