The Datsun redi-Go is essentially based on the same platform as the Renault KWID – good design and frugal engineering.
The end result is quite a stunner, especially when you consider it’s starting price of Rs 2.39 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi). However, there are areas for improvement as well.
Set your eyes on the Datsun redi-Go and you’ll be smitten. The sharp character lines, flowing design and tall boy stance all come together seamlessly to offer you a very good looking entry-level hatchback. It has a nice sporty stance and signature Datsun design elements such as the unique trapezoidal grille.
When you take into account the effort that has gone into styling the exterior, the interiors are actually a bit of a let down. While the cabin’s style might have taken a back seat, Datsun obviously went with a more conventional approach. A simple plastic dash, basic door panelling and seats covered in thin foam – without compromising on comfort – in order to free up maximum space for passengers.
Even the instrument cluster is extremely basic and frankly looks a little dated. The power window buttons could have been better placed, as they are quite a reach. Having said that, there really isn’t much that a buyer will complain about regarding the overall fit and finish of the cabin.
The redi-Go can carry 222-litres of luggage in the boot and the rear bench boasts of more leg room than the Swift Dzire! In fact, I tested that claim myself and actually found that my six-foot two-inch frame actually does fit better in the back of the redi-Go than it does in the Dzire. Sadly, I cannot say the same about the front seats.
Keeping overall passenger space in mind, the front seats don’t go back enough for me to fit in comfortably. While the person sitting next to the driver won’t feel uncomfortable, it’s not going to be an easy ride for the driver, especially if he is tall and broad. So, bottom line, if you are tall, get yourself a driver.
Powering the Datsun redi-Go is a 799cc petrol motor that churns out 54PS @ 5678 rpm and a decent 72Nm of torque at 4386 rpm. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox and the redi-Go is touted to return an average fuel consumption of 25.17-km/litre.
As far as performance is concerned, the little petrol motor is quite peppy and does the job in getting the redi-Go about town with ease. Considering, we were driving around Kolkata, the redi-Go showed proved it was well suited to navigate the hustle-bustle of city traffic.
Built small – 3429mm in length and 1560mm in width – the redi-Go can squeeze in just about anywhere. It’s easy to manoeuvre about town and the electronic power steering is a joy to use.
Where Datsun has really scored big and will be a boon for all buyers is the ground clearance the redi-Go offers. With 185-mm of space underneath, the redi-Go can actually go over some of the harshest speed breakers without scraping the bottom.
As with the Go and the Go+, Datsun has included various safety elements such as performance augmented brakes, a reinforced crash protection shell, electric power steering and host of other options.
Datsun has done their best at making an entry-level hatchback for the Indian market exciting. It takes a lot to achieve that at a low cost and the car does hold a lot of potential.
That said, Datsun does need to improve on certain elements within the cabin. What will be tough for the redi-Go is the direct competition that it faces from the likes of Renault Kwid and Maruti’s irreplaceable Alto. Starting from Rs 2.39 lakhs, Datsun will be hopeful that the competitive pricing of the redi-Go will help it get-off to a good start.
(Vikram Gour is one of India’s renowned automotive journalists and the Co-Founder of MotorScribes. He can be reached on Twitter: @VikramGour)
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