Datsun redi-GO Opal White

Automatic hatchbacks are all the rage in our market, from the run-of-the-mill models like the Nano GenX and the Kwid AMT to the highly sophisticated Polo GT TSI; Indians are flocking to the convenience that comes with an automatic small car. Looking to tap in and gain some traction in this up-and-coming segment, Datsun has now introduced the redi-GO AMT which is an automated-manual version of the standard 1-litre model.

The Datsun redi-GO 1-litre aims at blending textbook small car efficiency with a bit of performance and finesse, unlike the standard 800cc model that focuses purely on maximum kilometres to the litre. The bump in power and torque figures will certainly help this new model’s case out on the highways but does it make the redi-GO significantly better? Let’s find out.

Till date Datsun has had a torrid run in what essentially is a market that is tailor made for the brand. Datsun’s have always been about giving you the maximum bang for your buck which we Indians love. Datsun with its first product, the GO offered just that, which along with having a spacious cabin, also had a punchy engine and was priced aggressively. But there were some elements of the GO which didn’t go down too well with us. Its stripped out cabin and unrefined nature was a big turn-off for most. The crash test controversy where the GO was labelled unsafe didn’t help matters either. The fact is the Datsun brand has good equity as an affordable brand globally and to set things right the second time around Datsun promises to deliver a more upmarket exterior and interior with the all-new Redigo.