ROAD TEST
Datsun Go not quite coming of age
The updated Go is smarter-looking inside and safer, but refinement still lags behind the opposition
Relentless criticism about the Datsun Go’s lack of basic safety features finally encouraged Nissan to install dual airbags and ABS brakes in its baby hatchback. The updated Go, launched in SA a couple of months ago, sports a facelift, updated suspension, added insulation for better refinement, but most importantly improved safety in a car that previously had only a driver’s airbag and no antilock brakes. After being launched here in 2014 at a starting price of R89,500, the Go was lashed for receiving zero stars in a crash test conducted by Global NCAP’s Indian division. The addition of a driver’s airbag later raised the car’s rating to one star out of a possible five, but its body crumpled so much under impact that it negated the effect airbags may have had. Nissan claims to have made improvements to the Go’s upper body and front body structure, while stability control will be introduced later in 2019. Despite its dismal crash-test result, the car’s keen pricing made it a popular se...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.