Datsun Go gets an automatic CVT gearbox

The new Datsun GO CVT (Constant Velocity Gearbox) is the Japanese manufacturers latest offering in the closely contested affordable small-car segment in South Africa – but just how much value do you get out of this package?

We drove the newly launched GO in Joburg during the national launch across a mix of gradients and daily city traffic scenarios. With 7kW more than the manual iteration, this model seemed unphased as a city run-around. However, when tasked with highway overtaking on anything but a downhill, the CVT system had an audible meltdown, with little change in velocity. It does have its version of low range, but being a CVT, it was hard to tell if there was a difference. Though as a disclaimer – we did not subject it to any steep ascending roads.

The GO has a different option for nearly every entry-level price point, with GO and GO+ housing the Mid, Lux and CVT variants, coming in at R159100 through to R194800 with the GO+ CVT at the top end of the spectrum. Juxtaposed to Datsun’s variety is the fact that consumers can buy the CVT in any colour, as long as it’s blue.

The GO interior is acceptable overall. It is expectedly plasticy but panels have been cleverly textured to mask this. The infotainment system is a rather welcomed addition, being a full touch display that doesn’t require you to put your fist through the dashboard to change radio station. On top of this, they have maintained the hardware buttons for power, volume and voice command. Some buttons/features are difficult to locate, namely the sports button (apparently on the indicator stork) and USB port (which is essential to activate the hands-free system). Annoyingly, when trying to climb out, pulling the door handles won’t unlock the door meaning you will have to manually unlock the car first.

The size and turning circle are the party tricks of the GO, and on your grocery run will make you look like a pro for being able to squeeze into any parking bay.
The Datsun GO has a bad wrap when it comes to safety, with the structural integrity being widely questioned. Datsun have responded to this by adding vehicle stability control ESC as well as ABS.

It must be said that Datsun is fighting tooth and nail to give consumers a tangible value offering, which is seen through their 6 year/150000km service plan and 1 year subsidised insurance. Because of this, the GO has sold north of 32000 units, with little over a figure of 8000 contributed to, by the facelift launched in 2018.

The Facts:
Model: Datsun Go 1,2 Lux CVT
Price: R184 200
Engine: 1,2-litre, three-cylinder, naturally aspirated
Transmission: five-step CVT
Power: 57 kW @ 6 000 r/min
Torque: 104 N.m @ 4 400 r/min
Top Speed: 161 km/h
Fuel Consumption: 5,0 L/100 km (claimed)
CO2: 127 g/km
Service Plan: optional