In recent years Nissan has launched notable models such as the GTR supercar, 370Z sportscar, and the second generation Extrel SUV. One [xx} has been missing, Pulsar, but now it's back. After a seven sabbatical, the Pulsar [xx] returns to [xx] Nissans rival to small cars such as the Corolla, Focus, and Mazda 3.
Nissan's car will be launched as a sedan with a hatch to join the four door shortly after. I say small car but the Pulsar is actually relatively large, stretching 4.6 meters from nose tail. This one, though, hasn't wasted space. The 510 liter boot is not only bigger than the boot of Nissan's own large car, the Maxima, but also bigger than the VZ series 2, Commodores.
Has one of the largest bases in its class at 2 has 700 mllimeters and cabin length creates space more common to a medium car. Step into the rear seat and its 30 millimeters more shoulder width Nissan Pulsar predecessor and its vast amount of knee room. Up front there's a smart but simple dash design with some flamboyant curves creating some visual interest there are soft touch materials in places.
They have a marshmallow-like upper dash, like the Mazda 3, doesn't extend across the whole dash. This is the entry level trim of the Pulsar, the ST, although still well equipped highlights include cruise control, multi function steering wheel, six airbags, blue tooth connectivity, and a side spare wheel.
The storage is also useful. While the door pockets are on the narrow side, they are molded to take bottles and as a generously sized glove box it [xx] the 4, 16 inch wheels, the Pulsar ST rolls on, are rare for a base model. In that, they are made of alloy, rather than steel. Standard under the bonnet of the Nissan Pulsar is a new 1.8 liter petrol engine.
The 4 cylinder has 96 kilowatts of power and 174 neutometers of torque which is about par for the segment. While the Pulsar doesn't feel like the quickest car in it's class but it's certainly a solid performer and it works well with the either the standard six speed manual that we're testing or the optional CVT Auto.
I'm particularly a fan of their 6 speed manual. The action is a little bit notchy through the gate far from that, it's a very nice operation with a very nicely engineered clutch pedal. Nissan's engineers to reduce ambient noise in the cabin has also worked to a large degree because wind noise and tire roar are also impressively suppressed.
That refinement is one of the benefits of a stiffer body structure. It's no coincidence that the Pulsar has a supple ride, that cushions occupants nicely. The suspension is by more towards comfort than dynamic agility. But if you want a sportier Pulsar, well, the great news for buyers is there's a triple S version coming in 2013 and it comes with a turbo charged 1.6 liter engine.
This cars predecessor, the Tita[sp], struggled for recognition in the Australian market. But expect that all to change with the new Pulsar. It certainly has the right ingredients for sales success, not least with that pricing, impressive refinement and that nameplate. Call this the second coming.
