Some early 1.2-litre Pulsar engines were fitted with poor-quality piston rings, which could lead to a hefty thirst for oil.
NISSAN PULSA SOFTWARE
Engineīe aware that stop/start glitches can sometimes arise from software faults or below-par batteries. Gearboxĭon’t dismiss the Xtronic CVT automatic transmission too quickly it’s slicker than you might expect, with stepped gears. What to look for Safety kitĪll Pulsars are well equipped: Acenta brings AEB, while Tekna gets blind-spot and lane-departure warning. You could also consider the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, the Toyota Auris and Peugeot 308. The Mazda 3 is fun to drive, well equipped and attractive, while the Honda Civic is roomy and reliable. Other tough adversaries include the Hyundai i30 and the Kia Ceed, which major on value and come with long manufacturer warranties. Or you could opt for a SEAT Leon, which looks sharp despite being introduced in 2013. All are capable, but you’ll get more for your money with the Ford or Vauxhall because the Golf’s prices are higher. Obvious rivals are the Vauxhall Astra, Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf. Tekna features leather trim and heated front seats. The n-tec has sat-nav, DAB, a reversing camera and LED headlights. Acenta adds auto emergency braking, an upgraded hi-fi, dual-zone climate control, automatic lights and wipers, heated door mirrors and keyless go.
NISSAN PULSA PLUS
The basic Visia has a five-inch infotainment display, Bluetooth, alloy wheels, air-con, cruise control, all-round electric windows, plus electric door mirrors. More than a decade ago Nissan decided the way forward was not to offer its customers hatchbacks such as the Almera and Primera instead it would focus on crossovers that had the same usability as a hatch, but with added versatility and a raised ride height to offer a greater feeling of security, thanks to the better visibility. SUVs and crossovers are big business these days, and much of this is due to Nissan’s efforts with the Qashqai and Juke, which both launched new segments. It’s also a comfy car and it’s very family-friendly with its spacious cabin and roomy boot, so if you’re in the market for an Astra, Golf or Focus then you might want to also consider this less obvious alternative. When you consider that you can buy a top-spec Tekna edition with low mileage for surprisingly little money, the Pulsar can make a lot of sense. It may not be inspiring and isn’t a class leader, but it’s refined and well equipped, plus you get plenty for your money. If you’re looking for a family hatchback, don’t be put off by the Pulsar.
Anonymous styling, an unfamiliar name, more talented rivals and the rising popularity of SUVs meant the Pulsar barely registered with many UK buyers. That’s not to say the Nissan Pulsar is a bad car, it’s merely forgettable. Nissan’s decision to pull the Pulsar off sale after just four years looks disappointing on paper, but it came as no shock.
Usually a car is replaced after six or eight years.