Datsun GO Petrol NXT

The Datsun GO Petrol NXT is a compact hatchback designed to cater to the needs of urban drivers. It is powered by a 1.2-liter, 3-cylinder petrol engine, available in both manual and CVT transmissions. The CVT variant benefits from a power bump, delivering 77PS and 104Nm of torque, making city commutes smooth and effortless. The car features a spacious interior, a large 265-liter boot, and improved ground clearance of 180mm thanks to the larger 14-inch wheels. The ride quality is commendable, handling speed breakers and undulations with ease. However, the GO NXT still has some drawbacks, such as noticeable engine noise and vibration at idle, though these have been mitigated to some extent. Overall, it is a solid choice for first-time car buyers seeking a reliable, economical, and safe vehicle.

The Datsun GO Petrol NXT is priced competitively in the Indian market. The ex-showroom price ranges from approximately 5.9 lakhs to 6.62 lakhs, depending on the city. On-road prices, including taxes and other costs, can go up to around 7 lakhs. This pricing makes the GO NXT an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, its crucial to note that prices can vary slightly based on the location and any additional features or accessories chosen. Overall, the pricing strategy positions the GO NXT as a viable choice in the crowded entry-level hatchback segment.

The Datsun GO Petrol NXT offers reasonable fuel efficiency, which is a key consideration for many Indian buyers. The claimed mileage is around 19.83 kmpl for the manual transmission and 20.07 kmpl for the CVT variant. In real-world conditions, you can expect mileage ranging from 16-17 kmpl in city driving and up to 18-20 kmpl on highways. This makes the GO NXT a relatively economical choice in terms of running costs, especially for those who prioritize fuel efficiency.

The Datsun GO Petrol NXT has made significant strides since its initial launch, addressing several of the earlier concerns. The updated model boasts a revised design, an enhanced feature list, and improved safety standards, including the addition of essential safety features. The cars power-to-weight and torque-to-weight ratios are impressive, making it peppy and responsive in urban driving. However, it still lacks in refinement, particularly in terms of NVH levels, although these have been improved. The CVT transmission is smooth and jerk-free, making commutes effortless. Despite some feature omissions and the ongoing uncertainty about the Datsun brands future, the GO NXT is a competitive option in the entry-level hatchback segment, especially for first-time car buyers looking for a safe and economically priced vehicle.

The Datsun GO has been discontinued in India, marking the end of the Datsun brand in the country. The last recorded price for the Datsun GO was between Rs. 3.99 lakhs and Rs. 6.56 lakhs (ex-showroom). I think this is a significant loss for the entry-level car market in India.

The Indonesian-market Datsun GO series, which included the GO NXT, was succeeded by the Nissan Magnite crossover SUV in early 2021 after Nissan ceased production of the GO series in 2020. This transition reflected the markets shift towards SUVs.

In 2020, Nissan announced the global discontinuation of the Datsun brand, which included the Datsun GO and GO+ models. This decision was part of Nissans strategy to focus on its core brands. I believe this move was inevitable given the brands declining sales.

Bookings for the CVT automatic versions of the Datsun GO and GO+ were opened in India in September 2019. The CVT models offered a smoother and more effortless driving experience, especially in city traffic. I think the CVT option was a great addition to the lineup.

The Datsun GO and GO+ received a facelift in 2018, which included cosmetic upgrades, new features like a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and improved safety features such as rear parking sensors, ABS with EBD, and dual front airbags. This update was crucial in making the car more competitive in the market.