The Nissan Pulsar has traveled to five continents and has been sold for over 40 years. It started in 1978 and returned to Europe from 2014 to 2018. It’s also popular in China. This history is why people look up the pulsar nissan price and its features.
The Pulsar began as a small car and grew into a family-friendly compact. It’s known for its roomy back seats, easy drive, and good value. In Australia and New Zealand, it’s available as a sedan or hatchback. Europe got a modern five-door model.
For those new to the Pulsar, it’s a part of Nissan’s history. The Nissan Pulsar has a timeline that links to other Nissan models. This guide covers its history, specs, safety features, and buying tips. It helps you choose the right Pulsar model or compare prices.
This guide is your roadmap to the Nissan Pulsar. It covers its history, specs, and what it’s like to drive. If you’re looking for a practical, quiet, and well-equipped compact car, the Nissan Pulsar is worth checking out.
Overview and Model Positioning in Nissan’s Lineup
The Nissan Pulsar has been a key part of Nissan’s lineup for decades. It started with the nissan pulsar n10 and later became popular in Europe and Australia. It was known for its space, value, and easy drive.
Class and body styles across generations
The Nissan Pulsar began as a subcompact and later became a compact car. The early models, like the nissan pulsar n10, were small and perfect for city driving. Later, in the mid-1990s and again in 2014, it grew to match its rivals while staying light.
There were many body styles available. You could choose from 3- and 5-door hatchbacks, a short-lived fastback sedan, and the sporty 2-door EXA. Even a 5-door wagon was available in some markets. Japan had van-style variants. This variety helped the pulsar nissan meet many needs without losing its essence.
Where it fit between the Cherry, Sunny/Sentra, and Sylphy/Tiida
In Japan, the nissan pulsar was above the Cherry in the Cherry Store network. For exports, it was often paired with the Sunny and Sentra. Later, in Australia and New Zealand, it was known as the Pulsar, based on the Sylphy and Tiida.
In Europe, the 2014 nissan pulsar replaced the Tiida. It became a roomy, value-packed option in the compact segment. It offered a calm, easy drive, just like the nissan pulsar n10.
Front-wheel drive focus with select four-wheel drive availability
Most versions had a front-engine, front-wheel drive layout. This made maintenance easy and running costs low. It provided predictable handling and good fuel efficiency, perfect for daily use.
Some regional models had four-wheel drive for snowy and gravel roads. Performance variants, like the GTI-R, had all-wheel drive for better traction. But, the main nissan pulsar range stayed front-wheel drive.
Historical Timeline and Generations
The Pulsar name has evolved with Nissan’s global plans. It started small, grew into a compact, and then came back for Europe and Oceania. Today, buyers look at each era, comparing a nissan pulsar occasion, a used nissan pulsar, or a nissan pulsar price across regions.
From 1978 subcompact roots (N10) to compact iterations
The N10 debuted in May 1978 as a subcompact, replacing the Cherry F-II. It used Prince Motor Company’s tech, like rack-and-pinion steering and independent suspension. This made it better for daily driving.
By 1995, the Pulsar became a compact car and stayed that way until 2005. This change gave it more room and engine options. These factors are key when looking at a nissan pulsar price or searching for a clean nissan pulsar occasion.
Market nameplates: Cherry, Sunny, Sentra, and regional Pulsar use
In the 1980s and 1990s, the name changed by region. In North America, it was the Datsun 310. Europe and parts of Asia called it the Datsun Cherry, like the 100A and 120A. But in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and Malaysia, it was always the Pulsar.
From 2000 to 2005, Australia and New Zealand used Pulsar on rebadged Sylphy models, then switched to Tiida in 2005. The Pulsar name came back in 2013 for B17 sedans and C12 hatches, also sold as Pulsar in Thailand. Shoppers looking at a used nissan pulsar often compare these changes to find a fair price.
2014–2018 European revival and Australia/New Zealand returns
In 2014, Europe got a new Pulsar hatch to replace the Tiida, running until 2018. It aimed at mainstream compacts with a long wheelbase, efficient engines, and city-friendly tech.
Australia and New Zealand also welcomed the Pulsar back. For those looking at a nissan pulsar occasion, this era offers newer safety and infotainment. This can make a used nissan pulsar more appealing and help understand the expected nissan pulsar price today.
N10 and N12 Highlights: Early Engineering and Global Badges
The early Pulsars set the stage for agile, space-smart compacts. The N10 came with a well-tuned chassis, a flexible cabin, and a long nose. This hinted at its rear-drive ambitions. By the N12, the formula included broader body styles, more power, and market-specific badges.
Today, enthusiasts link the nissan pulsar engine lineage to later icons like the nissan pulsar nx and the rare nissan pulsar x1r.
Rack-and-pinion steering and independent suspension heritage
The N10 featured rack-and-pinion steering for quick and easy city driving. It had MacPherson-style coilover struts up front and coil-sprung trailing arms in back. This gave the small hatch surprising poise.
The long front overhang was designed to accommodate layouts that never made it to production. It also helped with cooling and service access for each nissan pulsar engine. The N12 refined this setup with updates to bushings, geometry, and noise control.
Datsun 310 and Cherry branding in North America and Europe
Badging followed local tastes. In Europe and Asia, it was the Datsun Cherry and 100A–150A. In the U.S. and Canada, it was the Datsun 310. Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and Malaysia used the Pulsar name.
This global approach paved the way for niche models like the nissan pulsar nx and special trims tied to the nissan pulsar x1r. Despite different badges, parts commonality and shared engineering made ownership easy.
Body styles, assembly locations, and engine families
The N10 started as a four-door fastback-style sedan with 1.2- or 1.4-liter engines. It quickly added 3- and 5-door hatchbacks, a 3-door fastback coupé, a 5-door van, and export wagons. The sedan was short-lived as demand shifted to hatchbacks.
Assembly spread from Oppama, Japan, to TEOKAR in Greece, Tan Chong in Malaysia, Wiri in New Zealand, and Rosslyn in South Africa. Engines ranged from 1.0L to 1.5L, with later E-series OHC designs and an end-on transmission in 1981. North American Datsun 310s started with 1.4L manuals, later moving to 1.5L with emissions gear. Automatics were off the sheet.
For the N12, Nissan added the Pulsar EXA 2-door coupé and a conventional 4-door sedan. Engines included E10/E13/E15/E16 gasoline, including the lively E15ET turbo at about 115 PS, and a frugal 1.7L CD17 diesel. A 1984 facelift slimmed the lights and introduced the Milano trim. Japan spawned Langley and Liberta Villa siblings, Australia built local N12s including the turbo ET, Holden sold a badge-engineered Astra, and New Zealand assembled hatchbacks. These steps formed a bridge to later expressions like the nissan pulsar nx, while the adaptable nissan pulsar engine family kept pace with changing rules and roads.
| Generation | Key Chassis | Body Styles | Engine Families | Global Badges | Assembly Locations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| N10 (1978–1982) | Rack-and-pinion; strut front, trailing-arm rear; long-nose layout | 3-/5-door hatch, 3-door fastback coupé, 5-door van, export wagon, brief 4-door fastback sedan | A-series and E-series I4 (≈1.0–1.5L); later E-series OHC; updated end-on transmission (1981) | Datsun Cherry/100A–150A, Datsun 310, Nissan Pulsar | Japan (Oppama), Greece (TEOKAR), Malaysia (Tan Chong), New Zealand (Wiri), South Africa (Rosslyn) |
| N12 (1982–1986) | Refined suspension and NVH tuning; improved steering feel | 3-/5-door hatch, 4-door sedan, Pulsar EXA 2-door coupé | E10/E13/E15/E16 gas, E15ET turbo (~115 PS), CD17 1.7L diesel | Pulsar/Cherry; Nissan Langley, Liberta Villa; Holden Astra LB/LC (AU) | Japan; Australia (local builds incl. ET turbo); New Zealand assembly |
| Legacy Links | Handling-first philosophy | Sport-focused variants inspire later niches | Adaptable nissan pulsar engine roadmap | Feeds recognition for nissan pulsar nx and nissan pulsar x1r | Broad supplier and plant network supports global reach |
Nissan Pulsar
The Nissan Pulsar is known for being practical yet stylish. Over the years, it has offered clean designs, simple controls, and great value. But it also explored bold ideas, giving drivers more choices and flair.
In North America, the EXA and NX models were special. They had a modular design and a sporty vibe. Buyers could change panels to match their mood. This kept the Pulsar exciting, while the main hatch and sedan focused on family needs.
The nissan pulsar nx sportbak is a favorite for its versatile rear. It turned a sleek two-door into a mini cargo space quickly. The nissan pulsar t top offered open-air fun without the hassle of a full convertible.
For those who loved performance, the nissan pulsar nx se was the go-to. It combined light weight with powerful engines, making city drives fast and weekend trips enjoyable. It balanced practicality with style.
That mix of utility and play helped the Pulsar connect with U.S. drivers who wanted more than a basic commuter.
Now, collectors seek out clean Pulsars to show off their clever design. Swappable panels, removable roof pieces, and compact size feel fresh today. The Pulsar aimed to make a compact car feel personal.
Interior Space, Comfort, and Practicality
The 2014–2018 nissan pulsar focuses on comfort. It has a calm cabin, clear views, and simple controls. The SUV-inspired dash design is smart and easy to use, even on busy days.
Quiet road manners and balanced tuning make long trips relaxing. The nissan pulsar wheels ensure secure footing.
Passenger space advantage versus VW Golf class
Adults over six feet have plenty of legroom and headroom in both rows. Four people around 6’2″ can ride comfortably without feeling cramped. This beats many hatchbacks in the VW Golf class.
Doors open wide, seats are cushioned, and entry is easy. Families and ride-sharers will find daily life smooth with the pulsar nissan.
Storage solutions and everyday usability
The layout is designed for quick, natural reach. There’s a deep cubby under the armrest for a wallet, a phone shelf below the climate controls, and big door pockets for large bottles. Sturdy touchpoints and intuitive buttons keep your eyes on the road.
The nissan pulsar wheels help keep the ride calm and stable on rough pavement.
Boot capacity and rear-seat flexibility
The trunk offers 385 liters, beating many rivals. A small loading lip makes it easy to lift in groceries or strollers. Fold the 60:40 rear bench and capacity grows to 1,395 liters.
This creates a long, flat space for luggage, sports gear, or flat-pack boxes. Handy versatility that fits the mission of the nissan pulsar. It strengthens the appeal for families and commuters alike.
Engines, Performance, and Economy
The nissan pulsar engine range offers a mix of smoothness and everyday speed. It prioritizes comfort and then efficiency. The nissan pulsar turbo adds extra power for quick acceleration.
1.2L turbo petrol, 1.6L petrol, and 1.5L diesel characteristics
The 1.2L nissan pulsar turbo is great for city driving. It’s quick and easy to park. It’s also good for fuel efficiency.
The 1.6L petrol engine provides stronger acceleration. But, it keeps the car comfortable. It’s perfect for quick merges and has a wide power range.
The 1.5L diesel is best for long highway trips. It uses less fuel and is quiet. Testers agree in their driving impressions.
Ride quality, road noise isolation, and handling focus
The ride quality is excellent. It smooths out rough roads and keeps noise down. The steering is light and precise for city streets.
The car balances comfort and stability. It’s easy to drive and comfortable. Even the turbo engine is smooth.
Real-world economy and automatic gearbox considerations
The 1.2L and 1.5L engines are best for everyday driving. The 1.6L is efficient on steady routes but uses more fuel when driven hard. The focus is on smoothness, not sharp handling.
An automatic gearbox was an option for the smaller engines. It’s convenient in traffic but might affect performance. Test drives are key for those interested in the turbo engine.
| Engine | Power | 0–62 mph | Typical Economy | Best For | Key Trait |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 115 hp | 10.7 s | Up to 56.5 mpg | City and suburbs | Zippy, low running costs |
| 1.6L Petrol | 190 hp | 7.7 s | Around 47.9 mpg | Fast commutes | Strong pace, comfort chassis |
| 1.5L Diesel | 110 hp | 11.5 s | Up to 78.5 mpg | Highway touring | Relaxed, most efficient |
Safety, Trims, and Equipment
The Nissan Pulsar focuses on safety, just like the Nissan Qashqai. It has clear controls and good visibility, making driving easier. This is great for those thinking about buying or leasing a Nissan Pulsar.
Five-star Euro NCAP rating context
The 2014–2018 model got a five-star Euro NCAP rating. This shows it’s safe and has strong active safety features. It’s perfect for families who want a reliable car without the high price of luxury.
Standard kit and mid-spec N-Connecta value
It comes with air conditioning and cruise control as standard. The N-Connecta trim is a great choice. It adds a touchscreen with navigation and useful features for daily use.
Leasing a Nissan Pulsar is a good option for those who like predictable costs. Many lease deals include the N-Connecta upgrades. This makes the car more valuable without the high price of top models.
Driver-assistance features like emergency city braking
Acenta and above have emergency city braking as standard. This helps prevent accidents at low speeds. Higher trims also have lane-departure warning for safer highway driving.
Whether you’re buying used or leasing a Nissan Pulsar, you get a lot of safety features. These features, along with easy controls, make the car a great choice for those who value calm and intuitive driving.
Nissan Pulsar GTI-R: The Rally-Bred Icon
Built from 1990 to 1994, the Nissan Pulsar GTI-R was made for top-level rally racing. It combined all-wheel drive with a powerful turbo engine. Today, fans compare it with the lighter road models for its lineage.
FIA Group A homologation purpose and AWD layout
Nissan designed the GTI-R to meet FIA Group A rules. It had a front-mounted turbo four and a center differential for all-wheel drive.
Its aggressive aero, like a tall rear spoiler and wide grille, improved cooling and stability. This made the GTI-R stable on rough surfaces and tight stages.
Performance specs: turbo four-cylinder and 0–60 mph
The GTI-R had about 227 hp and weighed around 2,900 lb. It could go from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 5 seconds, thanks to AWD and short gearing.
Boost came on early, and the close-ratio gearbox kept the engine in its sweet spot. Compared to the nissan pulsar gti, it felt sharper, louder, and more urgent.
GTI-RA, GTI-RB, and Sunny variants with equipment differences
The GTI-RA was street-friendly with power windows and air conditioning. The GTI-RB was lighter and offered Nismo upgrades like limited-slip differentials and stiffer suspension.
In Europe, the Sunny GTI-R had minor output differences due to fuel standards. It looked the same as the GTI-R, with the same aggressive stance and vented hood.
Pros, cons, rarity, and typical pricing for enthusiasts
Fans love its power-to-weight ratio, AWD grip, and unique story. Downsides include tight cabin space, higher parts costs, and finding a clean example.
With about 15,000 units built, imports under 25-year rules attract U.S. buyers. Clean cars often list in the high teens, average drivers near $10,000, and projects around $4,000–$6,000, based on condition and history.
| Variant | Key Focus | Drivetrain | Output (approx.) | Notable Equipment | Typical U.S. Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GTI-RA | Street usability | AWD, turbo four | 227 hp | A/C, power windows | $15,000–$20,000 (well-kept) |
| GTI-RB | Competition-leaning | AWD, turbo four | 227 hp | Weight reduction, Nismo LSD/suspension options | $12,000–$18,000 (spec-dependent) |
| Sunny GTI-R | European market | AWD, turbo four | ~220 hp | Similar aero, regional tuning | $10,000–$16,000 (condition-based) |
Note: Compared with the nissan pulsar gti, each variant of the nissan pulsar gtir offers stronger traction and a more focused nissan pulsar turbo character.
Buying Guide: New, Used, and Lease Insights
Shoppers have three options: a used nissan pulsar, a rare GTI-R import, or a nissan pulsar lease. The best choice depends on budget, how much you drive, and when you need a car.
Used Nissan Pulsar pricing trends and value positioning
In the UK, the 2014–2018 European hatch starts at about £3,995 on Carwow. This price is lower than many rivals, thanks to its spacious interior and low costs.
New prices in the UK were between £14,435 and £21,485. Today, used nissan pulsars offer great value. Always check the car’s service history, when it needs new parts, and for any recalls before buying.
Where to shop for GTI-R imports in the U.S.
In the U.S., look for the AWD GTI-R at specialist importers and JDM-focused sites. JDMbuysell and Shinku Classics have Japan-market cars ready for export.
Prices vary widely. Project cars might cost $4,000–$6,000, while good ones can be $10,000–$15,000+. Look for verified auction sheets and photos to avoid hidden problems.
Nissan Pulsar lease and lease deals considerations
Leasing was promoted for the European model when new. But now, nissan pulsar leases are hard to find outside certain markets. Compare the total cost of leasing to buying a used car, including insurance and taxes.
In the U.S., leasing is rare. Many look at imports or used nissan pulsars from abroad. Keep an eye on price changes and exchange rates to make the best choice.
| Path | Typical Price Range | Who It Suits | Key Watchouts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Used 2014–2018 Pulsar (EU) | ~£3,995 and up in the UK | Value seekers, commuters | Service history, wear items, prior fleet use |
| GTI-R Import (US) | $4,000–$6,000 projects; $10,000–$15,000+ solid cars | Enthuasiasts, collectors | Rust, paperwork, federal/state compliance |
| Lease (regional) | Varies by market promos | Short-term users | Limited nissan pulsar lease availability, TCO vs. used |
Customization, Parts, and Ownership Essentials
People own the Pulsar for different reasons. Some want a reliable car for daily commutes, others for weekend adventures, and some for classic car pride. Choosing the right parts is key. It’s important to match upgrades to your needs, depending on the car’s generation.
Nissan Pulsar engine options and maintenance priorities
The 2014–2018 models offered a 1.2L turbo petrol for city driving, a 1.6L petrol for quick starts, and a 1.5L diesel for long trips. Regular oil changes and fresh filters are essential. Also, keep an eye on turbo care and belt intervals.
Drivers with high mileage should watch diesel servicing and DPF health closely. The 1.6L engine offers strong midrange performance, but the car remains comfortable. Classic models and the nissan pulsar nx need special care, including cooling and fuel-line checks.
Nissan Pulsar wheels, towbar, and accessory fitment
Factory and aftermarket wheels for the Pulsar are easy to find. Sizes range from 16 to 17 inches, common in recent European models. Make sure to choose the right offset and hub-centric rings for a smooth ride. Adding lightweight alloys can improve steering feel.
A towbar for the Pulsar must meet local regulations and towing limits. Use wiring kits that work with the car’s CAN systems for safety. Roof bars, mudguards, and trunk organizers add practicality without sacrificing style.
Paint colors, interior updates, and infotainment notes
Popular paint colors include Flame Red, Special Solid Alabaster White, Azure, Black, Bronze, Force Red, Starburst Silver, Twilight Grey, and pearl Storm White. Regular washing and sealants help protect these finishes from road grime and UV damage.
Inside, many trims follow the Nissan Qashqai’s design. Mid and upper models come with touchscreen navigation and driver aids. Owners of older cars and the nissan pulsar nx often upgrade to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and install speakers to reduce cabin noise.
| Area | What to Check | Recommended Action | Ownership Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engines (1.2T / 1.6 / 1.5D) | Oil intervals, turbo lines, belts, DPF status | Use OEM-spec oils; follow service schedule; monitor diesel regens | Warm up and cool down turbos to extend life |
| nissan pulsar wheels | Size, offset, center bore, tire load/speed ratings | Fit hub-centric rings; torque lugs correctly; align after install | Light alloys improve steering without harshness |
| nissan pulsar towbar | Tow rating, wiring compatibility, rear sensor behavior | Choose homologated kits; code modules if required | Balance tongue weight to protect rear suspension |
| Paint and Trim | Clearcoat health, chip zones, interior wear points | Apply ceramic or sealant; use fabric or leather care | Touch up chips early to avoid corrosion |
| Infotainment | Screen lag, Bluetooth stability, speaker rattle | Update firmware; consider quality head-unit retrofit | Keep maps current for faster routing |
| Classics and nissan pulsar nx | Cooling system, bushings, brakes, parts sourcing | Use JDM-specialist suppliers; upgrade pads, lines, and dampers | Stock spares to cut downtime on rare items |
Conclusion
The Nissan Pulsar has had many roles over the years. It started as a subcompact and grew into a spacious compact hatch. It’s known for its comfort, value, and even its rally-bred GTI-R model.
In Europe, the pulsar nissan focused on easy driving and lots of space. It came with safety features like Moving Object Detection and Blind Spot Warning. For more details, check out this Nissan Pulsar announcement.
Car enthusiasts love the GTI-R for its AWD and turbo power. It’s a thrilling drive that’s more affordable than some other cars. You can find used GTI-Rs in the U.S. through JDM specialists.
In short, the nissan pulsar is very versatile. It’s great for families or for those who love the thrill of rally cars. Its dual nature makes it appealing to many.