Earlier in October 2018, we reported that the facelifted Datsun Go (revealed in Indonesia in May) was due arrive in South Africa in mid-November boasting “extra safety”. Now we can confirm that all local Go and Go+ derivatives will come standard with ABS and two airbags.
For the record, the outgoing variants each feature a single airbag (the airbag-less base model was quietly removed from the local range at the start of 2018) and do without ABS.
We’ve also learned the updated Go will come with rear parking sensors. In addition, the top-spec model will boast a new infotainment system (this is expected to be offered on the base version as well for a limited time from launch) supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and ride on 14-inch alloys, as opposed to the steelies used by the current variants.
The mid-cycle update will furthermore bring fresh front (now with integrated LED daytime running lights rather than foglamps) and rear bumpers as well as redesigned headlamps. Inside, expect to find an updated instrument cluster and redesigned air-conditioning vents.
The naturally aspirated 1,2-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine is carried over unchanged, and still delivers 50 kW and 104 N.m to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. A new continuously variable transmission (CVT) looks set to be offered in South Africa, but will likely arrive only at a later stage.
Pricing will be announced closer to launch, but expect a small increase over the current figures (which run from R138 900 for the Flash-branded hatchback to R157 100 for the Go+ panel van).
