2014 Indian Auto Expo: Datsun unveils Redi-Go crossover concept, showcases Go+ MPV

Datsun at its first ever Indian Auto Expo showcased two production cars in the Go and Go+ and also world premiered the Redi-Go crossover concept at the Expo fairground. The Redi-Go concept, says Datsun, previews a potential small crossover for the model line-up. As most crossover concepts, the Redi-Go is targeted at young people with active lifestyles.

The SUV stance on the Redi-Go can’t be ignored though and we won’t be surprised if it spawns a compact SUV too since this segment has taken the Indian market by storm. Besides the heightened suspension though, the Redi-Go looks like a tall-boy hatchback. It sports similar design cues seen in the Go and Go+ like the trapezoidal front grille, the elongated headlights that stretch towards the A-pillar and the prominent shoulder line. The rear features boomerang shaped taillights and a high set bumper. The Redi-Go concept has 2350mm ground clearance indicating its off-roading intensions and sports 15 inch alloy wheels.

Alongside the concept was the seven seater Go+ MPV. The Go+ will be launched in the second half of 2014 to take on Maruti’s Ertiga and the upcoming Honda Mobilio in the entry-MPV segment. The MPV is based on the same platform as the hatchback – something clearly denoted by the car’s name and the identical styling, engine and power ratings. It also shares the same 2450mm wheelbase as the hatchback and the extra 210mm length is the only key differentiating factor. The length is still under the 4-metre mark that will entitle it to excise benefits when it launches here. In Indonesia, Datsun has said that the Go+ will be priced under 100 million Indonesian rupiah, which amounts to roughly INR 5.50 lakh. At this price point, it will be a serious contender in the MPV segment.

Datsun also showcased the go in all its four colours – blue, white, silver and red. The Go production commenced only yesterday at Nissan’s Oragadam plant and is slated for a launch next month. It shows that Nissan is building a large batch of cars in anticipation of them being lapped up quickly. On the engine front, the Go will be powered by a 1.2 litre petrol engine with a 5-speed manual gearbox which is also shared by the Nissan Micra.