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Wheels24's Janine Van der Post attended a sneak preview of the new models earlier this week and shares some details ahead of the launch which she will be attending later in November.
"Since launching in South Africa in 2014, Datsun has seen significant success in the local A segment. Yet, the company is committed to continued innovation with technologically advanced features to dominate this competitive segment", says the automaker.
Popular A-segment choice
The new Datsun GO retains the same dimensions and engines as the outgoing model but, says the automaker, it's a new vehicle packed with loads of improved features.
Locally, the GO sells volumes each month; In September 2018, NAAMSA reported that the automaker sold 485 GO models and 217 GO+ models.
The people have spoken and Datsun has taken its customers' feedback to heart with a new design and value-added features.
The GO has two front airbags (driver and passenger), and it's now fitted with ABS - both features which were previously unavailable. There are also larger 14" wheels while the top grade will feature alloys, as well as a full spare wheel. The centre-console mounted gear-lever and the front "love seat" which was sort of a tribute to the Datsun models of yesteryear, is no more. The gear lever has been moved between the two front seats (where it should've been) and the awkward double front seat is gone forever.
There are now power windows all round, electric-adjustable side-mirrors, full dashboard and instrument cluster twaks, central locking, and the addition of daytime running lights. There's even a reverse parking sensor.
In the previous model you could only open the boot by pulling the lever inside the vehicle (located on the floor), the new model sports a boot lock/open.
Another highlight, and probably the biggest new feature, is that Android functionality and Apple CarPlay will be offered as standard equipment for the first six months of the new model being introduced to the market across the GO and GO+ range. Thereafter, it will be an optional add-on while a single-dim radio unit will be standard.
Image: Wheels24 / Janine Van der Post
While Datsun South Africa is keeping mum on the pricing, which currently starts from R138 900, they have indicated that the new price will "only be a marginal increase", making the GO one of the most affordable entry cars available.
The Datsun GO+ features all the same new additions and it also has an improved turning circle which we experienced in a bit of gymkhana fun.
While we will have to wait for the launch to feel what it really drives like, it most certainly already feels more refined just from the bit of dynamic handling experienced.
Image: Wheels24 / Janine Van der Post
Kabelo Rabotho, Nissan South Africa Marketing Director, said: "We are focused on giving our customers the best service while providing high-quality vehicles that serve the needs of everyone; from first-time buyers to entrepreneurs and also senior citizens, who love our reliable cars."
READ: REVIEW - Here’s why the Datsun Go sells huge volumes each month
In a short space of time, the Datsun GO has become a firm favourite in South Africa and the stylish new models are sure to be just as popular.
More details about pricing and spec information will be released soon.
Image: Motorpress
