A new, improved set of safety norms recently came into effect in India. In a nutshell, they list the essential features which must be part of every model’s entire range. That list includes an airbag, ABS, rear parking sensors, seatbelt reminders for front occupants and a high-speed warning alert. Datsun added these features and launched the updated Redi-Go hatch in July this year. Its other two models, the GO and the GO+, have now been upgraded to meet the stricter safety norms. Because of that, prices for both the models have hiked by up to 5 per cent.

So, what does that mean in terms of INR? Well, here you go – the hiked prices for GO and GO+ range between Rs 3.32 – 5.2 lakh and Rs 3.87 – 5.97 lakh, respectively. They are effective as of October 1, 2019. In June this year, the safety kit of GO siblings was enhanced with the introduction of Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC). Back then, their prices, in the same order, were between Rs 3.32 – 5.02 lakh and Rs 3.87 – 5.74 lakh, respectively. What that shows is that no all variants have seen a price hike, at least not the entry-level ones.

Both models are mechanically identical. The combination of a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine producing 67hp/104Nm, and a 5-speed manual transmission propels them. However, later this month the duo will receive the option of a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) as well. While neither of them matches the quality of their respective rivals, the addition of a two-pedal setup could help them make some numbers.

In India, the GO competes with the Maruti Suzuki Celerio and the Hyundai Santro. The GO+, on the other hand, locks horns with the recently launched Renault Triber.

Note: All prices mentioned above are ex-showroom Delhi.