The Datsun GO LUX, aimed at the budget-conscious buyer, has had a somewhat turbulent journey. Understanding the different model years and their associated strengths and weaknesses is crucial before making a purchase. This guide will delve into the best and worst years of the Datsun GO LUX, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the Datsun GO LUX landscape, covering the best years, potential pitfalls, and crucial considerations.
| Feature | Best Years (2018-2020) | Years to Potentially Avoid (2014-2017) |
|---|---|---|
| Build Quality & Safety | Improved structural rigidity, dual airbags standard. | Initial models suffered from poor structural integrity and limited safety features. |
| Engine & Performance | Refined engine offering better fuel efficiency and reduced NVH. | Early engines were criticized for lack of power and refinement. |
| Features & Technology | Introduction of touchscreen infotainment, power windows. | Basic features, limited to essential functions. |
| Reliability & Common Issues | Fewer reported issues, improved component quality. | Higher incidence of mechanical failures, electrical glitches, and body issues. |
| Resale Value | Generally better resale value due to improvements. | Lower resale value due to reputation and age. |
| Ride & Handling | Suspension tweaks offered a slightly more comfortable ride. | Firm ride, less refined handling characteristics. |
| Fuel Economy | Improved fuel efficiency figures. | Slightly lower fuel economy compared to later models. |
| After-Sales Service & Parts Availability | Increased availability of parts and service due to the model's lifespan. | Potentially limited availability of specific parts, especially for early production runs. |
| Transmission | Improved gear ratios for better drivability. | Original gear ratios can feel strained at higher speeds. |
| Interior Quality | Noticeable upgrades in materials and design. | Basic and spartan interior with lower-quality materials. |
Detailed Explanations
Build Quality & Safety: The 2018-2020 models saw significant improvements in build quality, particularly in structural rigidity. Dual airbags became standard, enhancing occupant safety. Earlier models, from 2014-2017, faced criticism for poor structural integrity. Crash tests highlighted significant weaknesses, and the lack of airbags in base models was a major concern.
Engine & Performance: Datsun refined the engine in the later years (2018-2020), focusing on better fuel efficiency and reducing Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH). This resulted in a smoother and more pleasant driving experience. The initial engines (2014-2017) were often criticized for lacking sufficient power, especially when fully loaded or driving uphill. The engine also tended to be noisy and unrefined.
Features & Technology: The 2018-2020 Datsun GO LUX models introduced welcome features like a touchscreen infotainment system and power windows. These additions significantly enhanced the in-cabin experience. The earlier models (2014-2017) were extremely basic, offering only essential functions. Infotainment was typically limited to a basic radio unit, and features like power windows were absent.
Reliability & Common Issues: The later models (2018-2020) generally exhibited fewer reported issues, suggesting improved component quality and manufacturing processes. The 2014-2017 Datsun GO LUX models had a higher incidence of mechanical failures, electrical glitches, and body issues, often attributed to cost-cutting measures and rushed production.
Resale Value: Due to the improvements in later models (2018-2020), they generally command a better resale value compared to their earlier counterparts. The negative reputation and age of the 2014-2017 Datsun GO LUX models often result in significantly lower resale values.
Ride & Handling: Suspension tweaks in the 2018-2020 models offered a slightly more comfortable ride compared to the initial models. The earlier models (2014-2017) were known for their firm ride and less refined handling characteristics. This resulted in a less comfortable driving experience, especially on rough roads.
Fuel Economy: Datsun managed to improve the fuel efficiency figures in the 2018-2020 models. The earlier models (2014-2017) delivered slightly lower fuel economy compared to the later, refined versions.
After-Sales Service & Parts Availability: As the 2018-2020 models have been on the market for a longer period, the availability of parts and service has generally increased. The 2014-2017 models might face potentially limited availability of specific parts, especially for early production runs, making maintenance and repairs more challenging.
Transmission: Improved gear ratios in the 2018-2020 Datsun GO LUX models contributed to better drivability and a more responsive feel. The original gear ratios in the 2014-2017 models could feel strained at higher speeds, impacting the overall driving experience.
Interior Quality: Noticeable upgrades in materials and design were implemented in the interior of the 2018-2020 Datsun GO LUX models. The interior of the 2014-2017 models was basic and spartan, featuring lower-quality materials and a less refined design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Datsun GO LUX year offers the best value for money? The 2018-2020 models generally offer the best value, balancing affordability with improved features and reliability.
Are the early Datsun GO LUX models safe to drive? The early models (2014-2017) have raised safety concerns due to poor structural integrity and limited safety features.
What are the common problems with the Datsun GO LUX? Common problems include electrical issues, mechanical failures (especially in earlier models), and body issues.
Did Datsun improve the engine in later GO LUX models? Yes, the engine was refined in the 2018-2020 models, offering better fuel efficiency and reduced NVH.
Is it easy to find spare parts for older Datsun GO LUX models? Finding spare parts for the 2014-2017 models can be challenging, especially for early production runs.
What is the fuel economy like on the Datsun GO LUX? Fuel economy is generally good, but the 2018-2020 models offer slightly better figures than the earlier versions.
Does the Datsun GO LUX have a good resale value? The resale value is generally low, but the 2018-2020 models tend to hold their value slightly better than the earlier ones.
Did Datsun ever offer an automatic transmission on the GO LUX? No, the Datsun GO LUX was only offered with a manual transmission.
Are the later Datsun GO LUX models more comfortable than the earlier ones? Yes, suspension tweaks in the 2018-2020 models resulted in a slightly more comfortable ride.
What kind of infotainment system does the Datsun GO LUX have? The 2018-2020 models introduced a touchscreen infotainment system, while earlier models typically had a basic radio unit.
Conclusion
While the Datsun GO LUX aimed to provide affordable transportation, significant improvements were made throughout its production run. The 2018-2020 models generally represent the best years, offering enhanced safety, improved performance, and better features. It's advisable to carefully consider the potential risks and limitations associated with the 2014-2017 models before making a purchase.