Datsun returns to South Africa

The Datsun brand was launched yesterday in South Africa, becoming the fourth market where it is being rolled out, alongside India, Indonesia and Russia.

Datsun had an iconic status in South Africa up to the 1980s, where it was the No. 1 selling brand in 1976-1978. Over 20 million Datsuns were sold globally over the course of 20th century.

“The return of Datsun to South Africa is integral to our expansion in high-growth markets where there are increasing numbers of upwardly-mobile people. Today's launch marks the return of this legendary brand to the market place. 2014 will be the year we realise our goal making Datsun a reality for many customers across India, Indonesia, Russia and South Africa," said Vincent Cobee, global head of Datsun.

Datsun will introduce in South Africa the Datsun Go hatchback, targeted at first-time new car buyers, ambitious successful people whom Datsun has called ‘the Risers’.

The Go will go on sale in South Africa towards the end of the year. Datsun says it aims to bring the car in a price segment below R 100,000 (Rs 5.56 lakh). Sales and service will be initially established through a network of 30 Datsun- branded dealerships throughout South Africa. The number of dealerships will be doubled in mid-term.