Datsun Redigo: 5 things you should know
Datsun's entry-level hatchback is here to give the Maruti Alto 800 and Renault Kwid some competition. Here is all you need to know about it
We were expecting the production version of the Datsun Redigo at Auto Expo 2016. Unfortunately, our expectations weren’t met, since Datsun had some tinkering left to do with the final version. However, April 14, 2016 will witness the global unveiling of the Datsun Redigo hatchback, followed by a late-May launch.
Here are 5 things you should know about it:
1. Built on the same platform as the Renault Kwid
Renault and Nissan have a parts-sharing partnership, which is why a lot of the cars they sell in India are essentially the same, with the differentiator being subtle exterior and interior changes and different badging. The Datsun Redigo is a Renault Kwid under the hood, albeit with very radical exterior changes, and probably some big interior ones too. It will be constructed on the same CMF-A platform as the Kwid, and will be powered by the same 800cc engine mated to the same five-speed manual gearbox.
2. To be "very urban-centric"
According to Trevor Mann, the replica watches UK chief performance officer for Nissan, the Redigo will be “very different” and “very urban-centric”. Unlike the SUV styling of the Kwid, the Redigo will feature a more fluid urban design, replete with a tall cabin, urban-suited ground clearance and great all-round visibility. The kinked glasshouse, flowing silhouette and swept back headlights are all very chic, we must say.
3. Not to receive 1.0-litre engine or AMT gearbox
While the Kwid is slated to receive a 1.0-litre engine as well as an AMT gearbox soon, the same will not make it to the Redigo anytime in the immediate aftermath of its launch. Seems like the Redigo will be stuck with an 800cc engine and five-speed manual gearbox for a quite some time.
4. Equipment levels to be lower than in the Kwid
Our sources tell us that the Redigo, at launch, will not be as well-equipped as the Kwid. A big omission will probably be the large touchscreen, which is proving to be a USP for the Kwid. It would also be reasonable to expect lower levels of fit and finish, as well as less plush seats.
5. The price, unfortunately, might not
Initially, it was planned that the Redigo would be positioned below the Kwid, undercutting it by about Rs 30,000. However, Renault pulled one over on Nissan and launched the Kwid at a gasp-inducing Rs 2.57 lakh. The Redigo, on the other hand, will be cheap replica watches launched at an estimated price of Rs 2.6 lakh. With a smaller equipment list and lesser brand value than Renault, this price-tag might make things difficult for the baby Datsun.
Courtesy : Autocar