The Datsun GO in India was primarily offered with a 1.2-liter, 3-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine. This unit produced around 67 bhp of power at 5000 rpm and 104 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm. It was available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) in later versions, which offered a slightly higher power output of 76 bhp. The claimed mileage ranged from 19.02 kmpl to 20.63 kmpl (Manual) and 19.59 kmpl (CVT).

The GO's engine is known for its fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for daily commuting. When considering this model, a thorough pre-purchase inspection of the engine and transmission is crucial. Look for signs of excessive engine noise or vibrations, which some owners have reported. Check for smooth gear shifts in both manual and automatic variants. Inquire about the service history, specifically regarding oil changes and any reported issues like engine overheating or low mileage.

Ride and Handling

The Datsun GO offered a ride quality that was generally comfortable for city commuting, thanks to its McPherson strut front suspension and twist beam rear suspension. The suspension was tuned for Indian road conditions, offering a decent ability to absorb bumps and undulations.

During a test drive, assess the ride quality over various road surfaces. Listen for any suspension noise. Test the power steering for responsiveness and any excessive play. Some owners reported wind noise at higher speeds and a somewhat noisy cabin. The GO's compact dimensions and light steering make it easy to maneuver in tight city spaces and parking.

The interior of the Datsun GO offers a surprisingly spacious cabin for its segment, designed to maximize passenger comfort. It features a simple dashboard layout, a bench-like front seat (in earlier versions), and a decent amount of legroom for rear passengers.

For this model, thoroughly inspect the fabric upholstery for wear, tears, or stains. Test the functionality of all power windows (if equipped) and the air conditioning system. Pay attention to the condition of interior plastics and trim for scratches or rattles, which some owners have reported as a concern regarding build quality. Verify that all controls are functioning correctly. The boot space is a decent 265 liters, practical for city errands.

Infotainment

The infotainment system in the Datsun GO was relatively basic in earlier versions, often featuring a simple audio system with AUX and USB connectivity. Later facelifted models introduced a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a significant upgrade for the segment.

When evaluating a GO, test all audio functions, including radio reception and media playback via USB. If it has the touchscreen unit, ensure its responsiveness and smartphone connectivity work without issues. Given that Datsun has exited the market, expect no future software updates for the infotainment system.

The exterior design of the Datsun GO is characterized by its simple and functional hatchback styling. It features a prominent hexagonal grille, sweptback headlamps, and a design that prioritizes interior space. Later facelifts brought subtle changes like vertical LED daytime running strips and updated bumpers.

When inspecting a GO, pay close attention to the overall condition of the bodywork for any signs of rust, especially around the wheel arches and lower sills. Check for consistent panel gaps, which might indicate past accident repairs. Examine the headlamps and taillamps for hazing or cracks. The dimensions, with a length of approximately 3788 mm, width of 1636 mm, and height of 1507 mm, along with a wheelbase of 2450 mm, make it a compact and maneuverable city car. Inspect the steel or alloy wheels (typically 14-inch) for damage and the tires for uneven wear.

Safety features in the Datsun GO were a point of concern in its earlier iterations, with some variants lacking essential features like airbags and ABS. However, later facelifted models improved significantly, offering dual front airbags and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) as standard. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) was also introduced in higher variants for enhanced stability.

When buying, ensure all airbags are intact and there are no warning lights on the dashboard. Test the ABS by performing a controlled hard brake. It's important to note that earlier models received poor crash test ratings, while later, improved versions had better, though not always independently verified, safety credentials. Buyers should prioritize models with dual airbags and ABS.

As a discontinued model, the Datsun GO primarily competes in the pre-owned entry-level hatchback market. Its direct rivals during its active sales period included the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10, Renault Kwid, Maruti Suzuki Celerio, and Hyundai Eon. In the current market, it would be cross-shopped against older models of these hatchbacks, as well as other budget-friendly options.

The GO's key differentiator in the pre-owned market is its potentially very low acquisition cost, offering a spacious cabin and decent fuel efficiency at an attractive price point. However, the challenge lies in the availability of spare parts and specialized service, given Datsun's exit from the Indian retail market.

The Datsun GO, now a part of the pre-owned car landscape, offers a compelling proposition for budget-conscious buyers seeking an economical and practical city car. Its spacious interior, fuel-efficient petrol engine, and compact dimensions make it suitable for daily commutes and small families.

For individuals considering this model, a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic familiar with Nissan/Datsun vehicles is absolutely essential, with particular attention to engine performance and overall build quality. The availability of spare parts and specialized service, while guaranteed by law for a period, might require more effort to source compared to currently active brands. Furthermore, as a petrol vehicle, it will be subject to the 15-year NCR ban, a crucial consideration for buyers in that region. If a well-maintained example with a verifiable service history can be found, the GO offers a basic yet functional and economical driving experience that delivers good value.