Datsun is back with the Datsun GO! But no GO for the USA

Datsun GO
The Datsun GO is here! Well, not here as in the USA, but at least its back. Here’s Nissan’s third brand Datsun as it reenters the spotlight in Delhi, India. This cutesy little runabout is called the Datsun GO. The all-new Datsun GO will be on sale in India in early 2014.

Powered by a 1.2-liter engine connected to a five-speed manual transmission, the Datsun GO is meant to be an extremely frugal, inexpensive vehicle of good quality. I think the 1.2-liter engine is similar to the one used in the Nissan Micra. There is no official word on horsepower, but I know that the Nissan Micra produces between 64 and 78 hp in normal trim, so I would assume similar for the Datsun GO. It will be locally produced and will cost under INR 400,000 (under $6,700). India, Russia, South Africa and Indonesia will get the Datsun GO in 2014.

“This is an historic day for Nissan Motor Company and for our customers and partners in some of the world’s fastest-growing markets. It’s also an exciting moment for many women and men here in India who – today – come one step closer to realizing the dream of purchasing a car,” said Carlos Ghosn, Nissan Motor President and CEO, when unveiling the
car. – – Nissan/Datsun Media

Datsun GO
Considering the price and potential of a sharp, little runabout like the Datsun GO, it’s a shame that there are no plans to market it to the United States. I mean, how cool would it be if we could buy a small car for less than $8,000 here? Datsun isn’t saying too much about the five-door hatchback, but they did provide metric dimensions.

“With comparatively compact body dimensions (width – 1635mm; height – 1485mm; length– 3785mm), the car is spacious inside thanks to a wide stance and large wheelbase (2450mm), and offers ample headroom and an expanded front seating configuration. It will be a reliable partner for families, providing comfort to five occupants and agility in congested traffic.

For those customers never wanting to part with their favorite music and pictures Datsun GO will offer a very practical solution – Mobile Docking Station to connect with their smartphones.” – – Nissan/Datsun Media

For a spiritual successor to Datsun’s 280Z, check out this Hyundai Genesis Coupe video!

Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism - Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum.  His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.
Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism – Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.