Datsun GO D Updates

Datsun India has announced a price hike for the Datsun GO and GO+ hatchbacks, with the GO D variant expected to see an increase of around Rs. 16,600 to Rs. 26,000, depending on the variant. This price hike is attributed to increased costs, particularly focusing on safety enhancements.

The Datsun GO D has undergone significant safety upgrades, including the addition of dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors as standard features across all variants. This move is aimed at improving the cars safety credentials, which were previously a concern. I think these additions make the GO a more appealing option for first-time car buyers.

Datsun has introduced cosmetic upgrades to the GO D, including a new hexagonal black grille with chrome surrounds, sweptback headlamps with black highlights, and integrated turn signal lights. The front bumper now features a revised airdam with sharp muscular lines and LED daytime running lights.

The Datsun GO D now comes with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, keyless entry, and 14-inch alloy wheels. These features enhance the overall user experience and make the car more competitive in the entry-level hatchback segment. I believe these updates make the GO D a solid choice for those looking for a feature-packed budget car.

The GO D has seen improvements in its structural rigidity, adding about 150kg of weight to meet upcoming crash test norms in India. This enhancement addresses previous concerns about the cars safety and stability.

Datsun has worked on improving the NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels of the GO D, making it more comfortable for passengers. However, there is still room for improvement, particularly in terms of floorboard insulation.

The Datsun GO D is available in several variants, including the base D model, which starts at around Rs. 4.02 lakh (ex-showroom). The car comes with a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine mated to a standard 5-speed manual transmission.

The GO D features a manual AC with a heater, which is a welcome addition for Indian climate conditions. Additionally, the car has a boot space of 265 litres, which is sufficient for family weekend luggage.

Datsun has increased the ground clearance of the GO D by 10mm to 180mm, thanks to the larger 14-inch wheels. This change has also led to a slightly different suspension setup, which handles speed breakers and undulations better.

Despite the improvements, the Datsun GO D still lacks some features such as a day/night IRVM and lane change indicators. However, the car remains a competitive option in its segment due to its pricing and enhanced safety features. I think these omissions are minor compared to the overall value the GO D offers.