Datsun Redigo: 5 things you should know

Datsun is set to unveil its all-new hatchback, the Redigo, tomorrow. As the carmaker prepares to take on established players in India like the Hyundai Eon, Maruti Alto and the new superstar, Renault Kwid, here are 5 things you should know about it:

1. Built on the same platform as the Renault Kwid

The Renault-Nissan Alliance has seen both companies share cars that have been only badge engineered with very minor tweaks. The Datsun Redigo, however, is different as it is built on the same CMF-A platform as the Renault Kwid. The mechanicals too remain the same. It will be powered by the Kwid's 800cc engine mated to the same five-speed manual gearbox. However, the styling of both the models is radically different. 

2. The Redigo will be urban-centric

According to Trevor Mann, the 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 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. To get the 1.0-litre engine and AMT gearbox sometime later

While the Kwid is slated to receive a 1.0-litre engine and an AMT gearbox soon, the same will be offered in the Datsun at a much later stage.

4. Equipment levels to be lower than in the Kwid

In a bid to offer rock-bottom pricing which is expected to start at Rs 2.6 lakh (ex-showroom), the hatchback will not be as well-equipped as the Kwid. A major omission could probably be the large touchscreen, which is a USP for the Kwid.

5. Competition check

The Redigo, which is set to be launch by end-May 2016, will compete with the likes of the Renault Kwid, the Tata GenX Nano and the Maruti Alto 800 to name a few.