Datsun GO The Energetic Hatchback Unnecessarily Demonized

Sometimes I am surprised to see the typical Indian mentality. On one hand, they want cheap affordable cars and on the other, they want it to perform like the cars which are 3 times more expensive. Anyways, I too wanted an affordable hatchback and with the top end model around Rs. 4 lakhs. I always hated Maruti Alto for its tiny dimensions and Eon too was built on the same lines. The only option remaining in front of me was Datsun GO hatchback. If you see this from a bare-bones budget hatchback perspective, then you will never appreciate this car. We have to think beyond this to give justice to the vehicle. What makes this car unique among the crowd is its revvy petrol engine, quirky ergonomics and as well as perfect dimensions that make it stand shoulder to shoulder with cars in its segment. You may criticize its various cost-cutting aspects, but you can't ignore its zippy performance. I am driving since past two months and the car has never felt light on its feet and is unexpectedly a quick city runabout. The responsive engine makes it easy for the car to close gaps in the city traffic and the vigor is something comparable to cars like Wagon R. However, the gearbox could have been crispier and that would have added more to the fun-to-drive factor. On the other hand, the steering doesn't require much effort and the light clutch is easy to control in crawling traffic. Even the suspension setup manages well in the city like Delhi. Moreover, the car has always been light on pocket returning around 15kmpl mileage in mix driving conditions. Another advantage of owning this car is the sheer amount of space it offers. The carmaker has smartly managed the spacing especially at the front where an extra passenger can fit in with the help of connecting seats. Datsun GO stands among the most spacious cars in its price range with enough space for three passengers at the back. It offers 265 litres of boot space which is more than Maruti Celerio and Hyundai i10 hatchbacks. So, if you are ready to ignore some negatives, then this car is the best your money can buy especially if you are a first-time buyer and a moderate driver.