Datsun's New GO+ with Up to 7 Seats Won't Win Any Beauty Contests [w/Video]

Following the introduction of the Datsun GO hatchback earlier this year, Nissan’s Asia-focused, low-cost brand has launched its second model, the GO+. Developed primarily for Indonesia, the GO+ is an MPV with a 5+2 seating layout.

The design is identical with the GO right up to the rear doors, which are continued by a third lateral window and added metal. It is not a particularly handsome car, but then again, beauty wasn’t Nissan main objective with the GO+.

It’s the practical aspects that were a priority and the 5+2-seat layout is remarkable (even though they’ll only be used for kids) given that the car has an overall length of only 3,995mm (157.3in), a width of 1,635mm (64.4in) and a height of 1,485mm (58.5in). The 2,450mm (96.4in) wheelbase is identical with that of the smaller GO, while the folding rear seats contribute to the car’s versatility.

The Datsun GO+ is powered by Nissan’s familiar 1.2-liter petrol engine linked to a 5-speed manual transmission that Nissan says is tuned for “fuel efficiency and good acceleration”. According to the automaker, the Datsun GO+ has been developed by engineers in the region “following a careful study of the needs, lifestyle and driving patterns of local customers”, while respecting Nissan’s global technical standards.

Like the GO, the car will be offered with Datsun Mobile Docking Station that allows smartphone integration into the car. Nissan confirmed that the Datsun GO will be available in Indonesia alongside the GO+, with prices for each of the two models to be under 100 million Indonesian rupiah (€6,540/$8,700).

Both models will be produced at Nissan’s plant in Purwakarta, Indonesia, for the local market and will go on sale in 2014. Nissan didn’t say whether the GO+ will be available on other markets as well.

By Dan Mihalascu

PHOTO GALLERY

VIDEO