Is the Datsun GO good for new drivers? Here’s our verdict.

By Farzana Chaumoo

We take a look at why the Datsun GO makes for a good first car for a new driver.

 

Driving on the road for the first time can be really daunting. What a new driver should be looking for in a first car is something that is safe, easy to drive/park/manoeuvre, and is low maintenance. As you don't need a big engine, small hatchbacks are the best to consider as they are cheaper to purchase, run and insure compared to an SUV for instance. 

Young, new drivers also don't need the space of a large family car, so the smaller ones make more sense. 

 

First car checklist

Let's go through the first-car checklist and see if the Datsun GO meets them:

 

Power steering	Yes
ABS (anti-lock braking system)	Yes
Airbags	Yes
Electric windows	Yes
Low on fuel	Yes
Affordability	Yes

 

The current Datsun GO boasts an up-to-date look and there's lots of scope for drivers to personalise the look and finish of their car. The GO is offered with an array of stickers, colours, spoilers and wheels. There are various body styles of the GO which include a five-door, four-seat hatchback and a five-door seven-seater GO+ model. There is also a panel van derivative of the GO+. 

The Datsun GO makes for a great first car as it is well specced and if you are considering it, you'll be happy to know that it was very recently refreshed. The GO range was updated in November 2018 where it received a new front grille and revised bumpers to make it look more stylish and appealing. It also got larger wheels which enhance its stability on the road, which is also good for new drivers. 

The ride quality in the GO has been said to be very similar to its rivals and while it may not be fast, it can maintain highway speed. Martin Pretorius attended the launch of the revised GO and said it has adequate performance while handling is safe. Read all about the style changes, safety equipment, engine and pricing here. What's more, low fuel economy and low insurance groupings make the GO affordable to run, even on a tight budget.

In terms of safety, there's the addition of ABS brakes and two airbags in case of an unwarranted situation. 

Inside, Datsun got rid of the bench seat and the updated GO got a new colour touch-screen infotainment system complete with a USB port, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. I mean that's a full house for entertainment and enough to keep you connected on the road. 

Let's take a look at the top features of what each model prides itself on:

 

Top Features of the GO

At a very base level this is what the Datsun GO offers:

• 1.2-litre engine, FWD, largest in its class
• Fuel economy: 5.2L/100km
• Spinal support front seats
• Air conditioner
• Mobile docking station
• Front ventilated disk brakes
• Manual central locking
• Immobilizer
• Follow me home headlamps

 

Top Features of the GO+

• 1.2-litre engine, largest in its class
• Fuel usage: 5.2L/100km
• Air conditioner
• Mobile docking station
• Spinal support front seats
• Front ventilated disk brakes
• Follow me home headlamps

 

Top Features of the GO Remix

The GO Remix is accessorised to the max.

• 1.2-litre engine, FWD, largest in its class
• Fuel usage: 5.2L/100km
• Blaupunkt Bluetooth radio/CD/USB
• All-new dark interior
• Rear roof spoiler
• 15″ Alloy rims and Continental tyres
• Smash and grab window film
• Electric side mirrors with indicator lights

 

Shop for a Used Datsun GO now or Read more Datsun GO News and Reviews.

 

Book a test drive or download a brochure.