Datsun Go Plus: Will it be the most affordable MPV? AutoPortal finds out

MPV

MPVs or Multi Purpose Vehicles have, of late, been quite popular in India. Going by the number of auto manufacturers who are launching in this segment, it is clear that there is interest and potential sales happening. This had already been proven by the success of models like Toyota Innova, MarutiErtiga and Chevrolet Enjoy. Other newer launches like Nissan Evalia, Tata Aria, Renault Lodgy and Honda Mobilio also have had moderate successes too.

Datsun Go Plus

Entering the fray is a brand new MPV, the Datsun Go Plus. As to whether it will be received well in the Indian market will depend on whether it can beat the competition and be the most affordable MPV among them all. Taking after the looks of the Datsun Go hatchback, it is difficult to make out the difference from the front. It is only when the side profile comes to view that the MUV characteristic is obvious. But then, the company has made it clear that the focus will be on affordability and providing value for the money.

Hence, in many aspects, it becomes clear that the Go Plus is more an extension of the Go rather than a full blow MPV. Many specifications prove this point. For instance, the wheelbase is the same as the hatch. Also, the exterior also is a carry over from the Go what with the grille and headlight console looking identical. The same goes for the bumper as well. So much so, there is a surprising absence of an alloy wheel option even in the top end variant.

Features

Inside, Datsun again pushes the point regarding a value philosophy rather than out and out luxury. The cabin, as with most MPVs, gives a spacious feel with the first two rows with adequate bench and leg room. As in the case of nearly all MPVs, the last row doesn’t help anyone but children. The dashboard too is a duplication of the Go and the fact that there are glaring omissions in a vehicle of this class could be interpreted as an opportunity at affordability. Many features that are now standard like steering controls and adjustment options, seat adjustment features, touchscreen with navigation facility and other touches are missing. But the absence of safety features like airbags and ABS even in the premium variants surely cannot be justified in the name of affordability.

The Go Plus has a peppy 1.2 litre petrol engine producing 67 BHP. The gear shift is less than smooth but the ride and handling is impressive. But at about Rs. 4.5 lacs for the top variant, the Datsun Go Plus could well turn out to be the most affordable MPV in the Indian market today.

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