Dubai: One of the enduring Japanese automotive labels gets to have second ride in the region. This comes in the form of “Datsun” — the value brand from the Nissan Motor stable.
Two models have been introduced in Lebanon and targeted firmly at first-time buyers. It was in 2014 that the Datsu branding was relaunched after being phased out in 1981, Datsun has since sold over 170,000 cars in markets like India, Indonesia, Russia and South Africa.
Nissan has not confirmed whether Datsun will be reintroduced in any of the Gulf markets. In the 60s and 70s, it did have significant following among Japanese-made brands.
The two models — on-DO four-door saloon (from $11,900) and the mi-DO five-door hatchback (from $12,900) — were designed at Nissan’s Global Design Centre in Atsugi, Japan.
“The new Datsun line-up has been specifically designed for the demands of countries like Lebanon where both geographical and economic considerations have an impact on new car buying decisions,” said Samir Cherfan, Managing Director of Nissan Middle East. “Datsun’s global success was underpinned by its promise to make new car ownership a reality for the whole world in the mid-1950s and this promise still holds true today.
“We anticipate strong demand for both models and expect to secure entry segment leadership in Lebanon within the next three years.”
