Datsun redi-GO Urban Hatch (Production-version) Receives Global Premiere

Nissan-owned Datsun has revealed the production-ready redi-GO 'urban cross' hatchback for the first time to the global folks today. We expected its premiere at the 2016 Delhi Auto Expo itself that took place last February. The funky hatch will go on sale by the month of June this year, with pre-bookings starting from next month according to the company. This car is the third offering from Datsun in the Indian market, and fifth car from the brand globally. Although the redi-GO doesn't really qualify to be an 'urban cross', it is more fab-looking and upmarket than many of its rival hatchbacks.

Drawing inspiration from the redi-GO concept previewed at the 2014 Delhi Auto Expo, the production-spec hatch has adopted an overall crossover-esque styling in a frugal way. The exterior of the car is highlighted by the characteristic hexagonal 'D-cut' grille guarded by wide sweeping headlamps and sleek lower bumper design housing LED DRLs up front, while suave wheel arches complementing the tall body structure and numerous angular detailing fills the side profile. The rear tail lamp clusters are positioned a bit higher, and its angular design protrudes over the sides. The car stands on R 13 steel rims with full-wheel caps, with an amazing ground clearance of 185 mm.

Datsun redi-GO's styling is more attractive and upmarket than many of its rivals

On the inside, the redi-GO features a full-beige driver-oriented dashboard design with simple, easy-to-use centre console controls, rounded AC vents, and a better-looking 3-spoke steering wheel (not the same as the GO hatch). Unlike the GO hatch, the gear lever is conventionally place between the front seats, with cup holders and power window switches right in front of it. The cabin offers best-in-class leg-room, spacious rear seat, and best-in-class visibility for the driver, claims the company. Seems that the Datsun has learnt essential lessons from the past experiences of the Go hatch in this regard.

Datsun redi-GO: Taller stance of the hatch is similar to that of Hyundai Eon

This hippie-looking hatchback is based on the same locally developed CMF-A platform as that of the Renault Kwid. Under the hood of the all-new car is a frugal 0.8-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine that is paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Datsun is yet to reveal its output figures, but promises best-in-class fuel efficiency in its segment. An AMT gearbox is likely to join the list in quite some time, as the Renault Kwid is also waiting for the same technology.

Also Read: Datsun Go-Cross Concept from 2016 Auto Expo

Datsun says that the new suspension system of the redi-GO offers an excellent balance between handling, ride comfort and manoeuvrability, which makes it define this car as an 'urban cross' that brings bests of two worlds - city and highway requirements. For driver safety, the hatch also features an optional driver-side airbag. There will also be a range of customisation options for the new car à la the Kwid, adds the company.

Datsun redi-GO: Interiors are simple and utilitarian, yet a step ahead for the brand

Considering its specs and traits, we can say that the redi-GO is the alternative personality of the new Kwid that has taken a stab at the entry-level hatchback segment. Both the cars will give powerful blows to the popular contenders in the segment - Maruti Suzuki Alto 800, Hyundai Eon, and Chevrolet Spark. The latter, in particular, is definitely more fab and upmarket than many of its competition, and could be a game-changer for the brand in India that is plagued with low sales of the Go hatch.

Also Read: Renault Kwid Climber & Kwid Racer Concepts from 2016 Auto Expo

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Datsun redi-GO (Production version) - Image Gallery