Owner reviews for the Nissan Pulsar
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Overall rating 4.5/5The Nissan Pulsar (2014–2018) is a practical family hatchback, best known for its roomy interior and comfort-focused drive.
London
AA finance available
Croydon
AA finance available
Isleworth
Barking
Hounslow
AA finance available
Feltham
No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 4.5/5Launched in the UK in 2014, the Nissan Pulsar was designed to offer families a spacious alternative to smaller hatchbacks. It features outstanding rear-seat legroom, a decent boot and low running costs, appealing to drivers seeking a no-nonsense, good value car. Compared to rivals like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf, the Pulsar stands out for its rear legroom and affordable running costs. Most cars come well equipped with trim levels such as Acenta and Tekna offering features from air con and Bluetooth to reversing cameras and dual-zone climate control. The cabin is simple and easy to use, though plastics feel cheap and the infotainment system is basic. Engine options include a frugal 1.5 dCi diesel and a smooth 1.2 DIG-T petrol. Reliability is below average with minor electrical issues, but the Pulsar remains simple to drive, easy to park, and gentle on the wallet.
The Nissan Pulsar comes with six airbags, stability control and ISOFIX child seat mounts as standard. Most versions, from Acenta trim upwards, also offer autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning and automatic lights – peace of mind for busy families.
The Pulsar range includes a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol, a 1.5-litre diesel and a sporty 1.6-litre petrol. The 1.2 is nippy and economical, while the 1.5 dCi diesel offers better fuel economy for long journeys. The 1.6 DIG-T is only found on higher-spec, more performance-focused models.
Standard tech includes Bluetooth connectivity, a colour display, steering wheel controls and a USB port. Mid-spec and above bring in features like dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and, on some models, a 360-degree camera. The touchscreen infotainment is simple, but dated and fairly small by modern standards.
The 1.2 DIG-T petrol is officially rated at around 50mpg, while the 1.5 dCi diesel can achieve up to 78mpg. Real-world figures are lower but still very competitive.
Look for signs of interior wear, especially scratches on plastic trims. Alloy wheels can be easily damaged – check for scuffs that might indicate suspension or alignment issues. Ensure the air conditioning is working, as repairs can be costly. For more tips, see The AA Vehicle Inspection.
While the Pulsar is generally dependable, reliability scores are below average, with owners reporting issues mainly in non-engine electrics and air conditioning systems. Recalls have covered minor lighting and sensor problems. Nissan’s brand ranking also sits lower than some rivals, so it’s important to check service history when buying used.