Datsun GO+ MPV launch on the cards

The GO+ will be based around the GO hatchback, although, it will be sit on a stretched wheelbase as compared to the hatchback.

Nissan owned car brand Datsun is ready to have another go in the Indian market as  it will launch the GO+ MPV here, early in 2015. Datsun, a brand that was revived  back to life after three-decades of rest had been introduced into the Indian market with an entry-level hatchback ‘GO’ earlier in 2014. With the Go+ MPV (multipurpose vehicle), Datsun will now be setting its foot in the entry-level MPV market which has offerings from other manufacturers such as the Honda Mobilio, Maruti Ertiga etc.

In a recent development, the production of the Go+ has been commenced at Renault-Nissan’s joint manufacturing facility at Oragadam in Chennai. The early batch, which comprises 2014 production year models, is believed to be used for promotional activities such as media drives, public displays and test drives across Datsun dealerships in India. Over the past few days, test mules of the car have also been spotted testing around the same area, confirming that the launch date is nearby, predictably in the first quarter of 2015.

The GO+ will be based around the GO hatchback, although, it will be sit on a stretched wheelbase as compared to the hatchback. The MPV will grow longer by 210mm and will sport a completely new rear design. Measuring in at just 3,995mm, the Datsun GO+ MPV will also evade from additional excise duties which are levied on cars that are longer than 4 meters. On the inside a third row of seats will be included. The interior layout is mostly identical to that of the hatchback and it will borrow design cues and creature-comfort features like follow-me headlamps and tear-drop wipers as well from the GO hatchback.

Powertrain wise, the GO+ petrol variants will source their power from the same 1.2 litre 69PS petrol engine which powers the GO hatchback. The diesel mill, which is expectedly going to be the masses’ favorite here, will be powered by Nissan’s tried and tested 1.5 litre 85PS diesel engine. This engine currently does duty on a majority of Renault and Nissan cars in India.

While the GO hatchback did not quite send the cash registers ringing for Datsun, the company insists that the product has been performing above the early predications and monthly sales have been sublimely consistent. Considering the fact that the Indian car market is full of cost conscious buyers, pricing of the GO+ will play key role in making or breaking the product.