The Datsun Redi-GO is based on the same CMF-A platform as the Renault Kwid but gets a completely different design language and will be positioned below the Datsun GO.
Nissan India planned to take the fight more aggressively against the Maruti Alto 800 and showcased the Datsun Redi-GO concept at the 2014 Auto Expo. With no news about the concept since then, the Redi-GO has now surfaced online in a production ready avatar as seen in its first spy shot. The completely camouflaged test mule says little about the design details but the smallest Datsun to go on sale will be close to the concept with the high riding stance and vertical-stacked tail lights retained.
The Datsun Redi-GO shares a host of details with the newly launched Renault Kwid and will be the second model in India to be based on the CMF-A low cost platform. While the styling will be decidedly different on both models with the Redi-GO getting the Datsun family fascia, there are some similarities that are hard to ignore. A lot of parts will be shared between both models so its not surprising to see doors from the Kwid also making it on the Redi-GO. The three lug-nut wheels are also carried over.
In terms of power, the Datsun Redi-GO will use the same 800cc three-cylinder petrol engine that makes 54 PS on the Kwid. The engine will come paired to a 5-speed manual, whereas an AMT unit is likely to be offered later in the timeline. It will be interesting to see if Datsun also offers the touchscreen infotainment system and digital instrument cluster or sticks to its mobile docking unit as seen on the GO and GO+ models.
The Renault Kwid was launched at an extremely aggressive price price point in India that contributed to the strong demand it is witnessing right now. Given Nissan’s lower position in the Renault-Nissan alliance, the Datsun Redi-GO could undercut the Kwid for a lower asking price intensifying the battle in the entry-level hatchback segment. Down on its luck in terms of sales, it will be interesting to see if the Redi-GO can change Datsun’s fortunes in the domestic market. A launch is expected some time during 2016.
Spy Picture Source – Motor Vikatan on Facebook
