Datsun redi-GO Review-Will this ‘Urban Cross’ succeed in India ?

The Datsun redi-GO is one of the most affordable entry-level hatchback car produced by Datsun. The Datsun redi-GO comes in five variants and shares the same platform as the company’s previously launched Renault Kwid, though it is shorter, lighter and cheaper than the Renault Kwid, at the same time it has a larger ground clearance of 185 mm.

The price of the Datsun redi-GO starts from Rs 2.54 lakh and goes up to Rs 3.72 lakh. All prices are ex-showroom, New Delhi. Other entry level hatchback cars such as the Tata Nano, Renault Kwid, Hyundai Eon and Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 are the chief competitors of the Datsun redi-GO.

ENGINE AND SPECIFICATIONS

A 3 cylinder 799 cc engine powers Datsun redi-Go with a 5 speed manual gear box transmission

The Datsun redi-GO is powered by a 799 cc, three cylinder, 12 valve, DOHC petrol engine which delivers 54 PS of maximum power at 5678 RPM along with 72 Nm of peak torque. The engine uses the Intelligent Spark Automated Technology (iSAT) and comes mated to a 5-speed manual transmission gearbox. Besides, the car features a turning radius of 4.73 metre.

In terms of acceleration, the Datsun redi-GO crosses the 0 – 100 kmph barrier within 15.9 seconds with a top speed of 140 kmph. As far as mileage is concerned, the car returns an ARAI certified mileage of 25.17 kmpl.The car comes with a fuel tank capacity 28 litres.

EXTERIOR

Datsun redi-Go's 185 mm ground clearence looks impressive

The Datsun redi-GO is based on the Yukan design philosophy. The hatchback comes with quite bold exteriors. The futuristically designed headlamps, silver accent frame on front grille, sharp daytime running lamps and windshield green glass enhance the beauty of the Datsun redi-GO.

Other attractive features of the car include driver side out side mirror, roof antenna, stylish wheel rim, centre hub caps and three dimensional rear tail lamp cluster with a heavy bumper. The dimension of the Datsun redi-GO measures 3429 mm in length, 1560 mm in width and 1541 mm in height. At the same time, the hatchback has a ground clearance of 185 mm which is best in the class.It has a wheelbase of 2348 mm and the overall weight of the car is 760 kg.

Moreover, the Datsun redi-GO is available with a choice of five colours- Ruby Red, Silver, White, Lime Green and Grey.

INTERIOR

redi-Go has a 5 seater passenger capability and comes with 222 litres of boot space which you can even further increase by folding the rear seats

The interior of the Datsun redi-GO comes with cutting edge style. The car has spacious seating capacity for five passengers. The hatchback has enough head room, leg room and knee room, at the same time the front seats as well as the rear seats of the car get integrated headrests. The seats, door pads and the dashboard, all are given a grey touch.

Other comfort and convenience features of the Datsun redi-GO include three spokes steering wheel, drive computer, front power window switches, driver side sun visor, inside rear view mirror, utilitarian front console, front door map pocket, air conditioner, heater and ventilator, smart molded door trims, remote fuel filler, passenger side assist grip, standard glove box along with multiple cubby holes, console bottle holder and console cup colder. The audio system of the car supports CD, MP3, Radio, USB and AUX input.

Apart from these, the Datsun redi-GO comes with 222 litres of boot space.

PERFORMANCE

While i-SAT engine delivers this car a smooth performance it has ARAI certified mileage of 25.17 kmpl.

The Datsun redi-GO is a good performer. The i-SAT (Intelligent Spark Automated Technology) engine, that is one of the main highlights of the car, automatically adjusts spark timing and gives a knocking free smooth performance. On the braking front, the hatchback is fitted with disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear.

Moreover, the front suspension of the Datsun redi-GO consists of MacPherson strut with lower transverse link and twin tube hydraulic shock absorbers whereas the rear suspension consists of Twist beam with coil spring and twin tube hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers.

In terms of safety, the Datsun redi-GO comes equipped with many safety features such as driver airbag, central locking system, front and rear seat belts, front wiper, child protection locking system and engine immobilizer.

ADVANTAGES

The Datsun redi-GO has spacious interiors. The car has a small turning radius of just 4.7 metre. On the plus side, the speed sensitive electric power steering system of the Datsun redi-GO provides the easily turn at lower speeds and a firm handling at higher speeds. Furthermore, the hatchback offers an impressive fuel economy of 25.17 km /l.

DRAWBACKS

The major drawback of the Datsun redi-GO is it does not have Bluetooth connection. Besides, the car also lacks an important safety feature ABS.

VERDICT

The Datsun redi-GO is the blend of crossover and urban hatchback, according to the company. Undeniably, the car has charming looks and comes with best in class ground clearance of 185 mm. In addition, it has roomy interiors. The Datsun redi-GO is not feature loaded, notwithstanding it is perfect for young generation owning to its high performance engine and impressive fuel efficiency.