Datsun 'I2' will have cost-effective positioning, launch within 18 months - Report

21/03/2015 - 10:09 | Datsun I2, Datsun redi-GO, Renault XBA, Datsun | Anjan Ravi

Based on the new CMF-A platform.

Speaking to Reuters, Guillame Sicard, president for Nissan India, said that the Datsun 'I2' will have a 'cost-effective positioning', and that a launch will take place within 18 months.

Datsun redi-GO at the 2014 Indonesia International Motor Show front — Datsun's third model for the Indian market is expected to be inspired by the Redi-Go concept showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo.

'I2' is codename for Datsun's forthcoming model which will be its smallest and most affordable yet. It will slot below the Datsun Go, and will be underpinned by the new Renault-Nissan developed CMF-A platform.

The small car is expected to be inspired by the Datsun Redi-Go concept in terms of design. Having been designed and engineered in India, the car would come with lighter materials and fewer components keeping costs in check.

Even prior to its launch, Renault will introduce the CMF-A platform in India with its small car codenamed 'XBA'. Expected to have its market introduction by June this year, the XBA is reported to be powered by an 800 cc petrol engine matched to manual and automated manual transmissions (AMT). The Datsun I2 would share its running gear with the XBA.

Datsun Redi-Go IAB rendering — Our artist's rendering of the production version of the Datsun 'I2' based on the concept.

Also read: Nissan to launch Patrol SUV in India, prices expected at INR 1 Crore

Both cars will roll out from the Alliance's plant in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The plant, apart from catering to local demand will also serve for export markets.

Rivals: Chevrolet Spark, Renault XBA, Maruti Alto, Hyundai Eon
Expected Price Range: INR 3-4 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Tentative Launch date: Within 18 months

[Source - Economic Times]