Exclusive: Datsun mulling on entering the 'crossover' market in India

Japanese automaker Datsun seems keen on entering various segments in India, including the new crossover market. In a discussion with Vincent Cobee (Corporate Vice President - Global Head of Datsun) earlier today in Yokohama (Japan), it seemed that the company is closely following new trends in the Indian market and will possibly look at creating its presnece felt in some of the new emerging segments. This includes the new Crossover segment – when and with which product is still a mystery to us. There have been no further details shared with us but yesterday, at the technical center in Atsugi, we did come across designers working on a digital model of the Go hatchback with flared arches, roof rails, different wheel design et al! If the crossover version does happen, expect it to be launched in other markets as well.

The new crossover from Datsun, if launches, will make sense to Indian market as it is clear from the fact that the compact SUVs and crossovers are the second most loved segment in the country after the premium hatchback segment. Every car manufacturer is trying to tap this growing segment. According to J.D Power report, SUV sales may grow two-fold from 3.8 lakh units at present to 9.08 lakh units annually by 2020.

Also Read: Datsun cars become safer, Go & Go+ now with airbags

Top carmakers like Maruti, Hyundai and Mahindra are already betting big on this segment. Mahindra will launch its compact SUV TUV300 on 10th September while Maruti and Hyundai have already launched their products. Hyundai got a whopping response of 40,000 initial bookings while Maruti has been able to roll-out decent numbers of the S-Cross.

The Datsun crossover, if it comes to India, will be the most affordable car in its segment, a segment that has options including Toyota Etios Cross, Volkswagen Cross Polo and Ford Ecosport. At present, Datsun sells the Go hatchback and the Go+ compact family and holds 0.63% market share in Indian car market selling more than 1300 units of both Go and Go+.

Image courtesy: X-Tomi Design 

Competition Check: Toyota Etios Cross | Volkswagen Cross Polo | Fiat Avventura