Nissan is enhancing the appeal of its Pulsar hatchback by adding a punchy turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol to its line-up.
Known for its family-friendly qualities – and not necessarily its sporty ones – the Pulsar is aimed at those who want a comfortable and practical car. Upon its launch, there were many who wondered how it would compete with class leaders like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf when it came to driving dynamics and overall excitement. Nissan hopes that the new 1.6-litre DIG-T petrol will rectify this lack of exhilaration.
Producing an impressive 187bhp, the turbocharged 1.6-litre DIG-T propels the Pulsar from zero to 62mph in just 7.7 seconds. Efficiency-wise, it emits 134g/km of CO2 and claims to return an average fuel economy of 49.5mpg. This will sit at the top of the Pulsar engine range, trumping the current range-topping 1.2-litre DIG-T petrol by a difference of 74bhp.
In addition to its new power credentials, the 1.6-litre DIG-T brings enhanced driving dynamics and styling tweaks to boot. On the driving front, Nissan claims that the DIG-T offers more direct steering feedback and better responsiveness, ultimately giving it a sportier feel. It also has a revised suspension set-up. Visually, it brings unique alloy wheels as well as a bespoke interior finish, with white stitching on the steering wheel and seats.
Although sitting at the top of the engine range, the new 1.6-litre DIG-T is available in three trim grades – Acenta, n-tec and Tekna – each offering their own levels of kit enhancements.
Orders are now open for the new Nissan Pulsar DIG-T 190. Priced at £19,645, it is £3,650 more than the standard Pulsar model.
