Datsun has followed up a series of international unveilings of its Go hatchback with a showcase of the vehicle right here in Mzansi. While the newcomer is not available yet, with this local reveal, Datsun South Africa has made its strategy clear – target the young, first-time buyer with a pocket-friendly car.
Datsun calls them the “risers” – buyers who are looking to procure their first new car and has specific needs as a modern, plugged-in generation. And the Japanese company believes that the Go caters for this.
Made in India, the Go is a five-door, front-wheel-drive hatchback that is powered by a 51 kW 1,2-litre engine mated with a five-speed manual transmission. This unit is claimed to have a fuel mileage of 20 kms per litre. Included in the standard features is what Datsun calls a mobile docking station. This system allows the owner to sync their phone to the car in order to listen to music.
The Datsun Go will be launched towards the end of the year and is expected to be priced under R100 000. Datsun is currently rolling out its plan of establishing a network of 30 Datsun-branded dealerships with the intention of doubling that number soon after.
“The return of Datsun to South Africa is integral to our expansion in high-growth markets where there are increasing numbers of upwardly-mobile people. With the introduction of Datsun here we are finalising the return and launch phase of this legendary brand,” said Vincent Cobee, global head of Datsun.
You can read more about this car and an interview with Vincent Cobee in the July issue of CAR.
