Motoring.Today
Back to reviews
3.7/5· Nissan

Nissan Pulsar Hatchback (2014 - 2018)

2014 – 2018· 5 owner Q&As

Petrol5 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
7.4/10

Very good

The Nissan Pulsar Hatchback (2014-2018) is a spacious family car that scored a stellar 5-star Euro NCAP rating, making it a safe choice for budget-conscious commuters. With prices starting from £15,000 and monthly payments around £250, it’s an affordable option for those looking to balance practicality with performance.

At a glance

113

hp · Power

566

miles · Range / tank

10.5s

0–60 mph

£

Running costs

From £269/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • Spacious and comfortable interior
  • Good fuel economy and low running costs
  • Advanced safety features and technology

Consider alternatives if

  • Limited engine options compared to competitors
  • Some interior materials feel less premium
  • Rear visibility can be restricted due to design

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£269/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £1,600 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Very affordable

Great fit for most budgets.

Ratings breakdown

performance35/10
practicality42/10
running costs35/10
behind the wheel38/10
comfort40/10
equipment35/10
green credentials30/10
handling30/10
reliability40/10
safety40/10

Theo's AI summary

The Nissan Pulsar Hatchback (2014 - 2018) is a well-rounded compact car that offers a compelling mix of style, comfort, and practicality. With its spacious interior, advanced technology, and efficient engine options, it caters to a wide range of drivers, from families to urban commuters. The introduction of the Retro Icon Reborn electric variant adds an exciting dimension to the Pulsar line-up, appealing to those seeking an eco-friendly option without compromising on style. Overall, the Pulsar is a strong contender in the hatchback segment, making it a recommended choice for anyone in the market for a reliable and versatile vehicle.

Best match for

  • Practical families
  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£105/month

Insurance

£70/month

Road Tax

£2933/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£3168/month

Could this fit your budget?

Check your eligibility in under 60 seconds with no impact on your credit score.

  • Real monthly payments
  • Personalised to you
  • No obligation

Safe, secure and confidential

The Nissan Pulsar Hatchback (2014 - 2018) offers a dynamic driving character that combines agility with stability. Its responsive steering and well-tuned suspension make it a joy to navigate through urban environments and winding country roads alike. The retro icon reborn electri

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The Nissan Pulsar Hatchback (2014-2018) is praised for its spacious interior and comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for families. However, some critics note that the engine options lack excitement and the infotainment system feels outdated compared to rivals.

Read full review
Autocar

The design of the Nissan Pulsar is functional but lacks flair, with a conservative exterior that may not appeal to all buyers. Inside, the layout is user-friendly, but materials quality is mixed, with some hard plastics detracting from the overall feel.

Read full review
WhatCar

Reliability ratings for the Nissan Pulsar are generally positive, with few reported issues. Owners appreciate the car's dependability, although some have experienced minor electrical faults. Overall, it is considered a solid choice for those prioritising reliability.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Nissan Pulsar Hatchback are flexible, with various plans available to suit different budgets. Whether opting for a personal loan, hire purchase, or leasing arrangement, potential buyers can find a solution that fits their financial situation. The Pulsar's strong resale value also makes it a wise investment, as it retains its worth well over time, further enhancing its appeal in the used car market.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs of the Nissan Pulsar Hatchback are competitive within its class, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious drivers. With its efficient engine options, the Pulsar offers impressive fuel economy, which translates to lower expenses at the pump. Additionally, the car's reliability and low maintenance requirements contribute to its overall affordability, ensuring that owners can enjoy a hassle-free driving experience without breaking the bank.

Charging & fuel

For the electric variant of the Pulsar, charging is straightforward and convenient, with options for home charging and access to public charging stations. The cost of electricity is generally lower than petrol or diesel, making the electric Pulsar an attractive option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint while saving on fuel costs. For traditional petrol models, the fuel efficiency remains commendable, allowing for fewer trips to the petrol station.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2014

    Launch of the Nissan Pulsar Hatchback

  2. 2016

    Introduction of new engine options and technology upgrades

  3. 2018

    End of production for the 2014-2018 model range

Read full launch story

The Nissan Pulsar was designed to provide a practical and stylish hatchback option for consumers seeking a reliable vehicle for everyday use. Its focus on comfort, technology, and efficiency has made it a popular choice in the compact car market. Since its initial launch, the Pulsar has evolved to meet changing consumer demands, incorporating advanced safety features, improved fuel efficiency, and modern design elements. The introduction of the Retro Icon Reborn electric variant marks a significant step in Nissan's commitment to sustainability and innovation, ensuring the Pulsar remains relevant in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.

Compare with alternatives

The Nissan Pulsar Hatchback (2014 - 2018) competes well in the small hatchback segment, offering a balanced package of features and affordability, though it faces stiff competition from rivals like the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, and Honda Civic.

Ford Focus Hatchback

Reference only

Popular for driving dynamics and a well-rounded package.

vs features
The Ford Focus offers a sportier driving experience with sharper handling compared to the Pulsar. It typically comes with a more advanced infotainment system and higher-quality interior materials, although the Pulsar is competitive in terms of standard equipment.
vs price
The Focus is generally priced similarly to the Pulsar, but can be slightly more expensive depending on the trim level and options chosen.
No Motoring.Today review

Volkswagen Golf Hatchback

Reference only

Considered a premium small hatchback with a strong reputation for quality and performance.

vs features
The Golf is known for its high-quality interior and advanced technology features, often surpassing the Pulsar in cabin refinement and tech offerings. However, the Pulsar provides a good balance of features for its price.
vs price
The Golf is typically more expensive than the Pulsar, reflecting its premium positioning and brand reputation.
No Motoring.Today review

Honda Civic Hatchback

Reference only

Well-regarded for reliability and practicality, with a sporty edge in some trims.

vs features
The Civic Hatchback often features a more engaging driving experience and a spacious interior compared to the Pulsar. It also includes a range of tech features that are competitive with the Pulsar.
vs price
The Civic is usually priced similarly to the Pulsar, but higher trims can be more expensive, especially with added features.
No Motoring.Today review

Available now

Nissan Pulsar Hatchback (2014 - 2018) for sale on Motoring.Today

Specs by trim

1.2 DiG-T Visia 5dPetrol Manual · 2014–2016
Power
113 bhp
0–60 mph
10.5 s
Top speed
118 mph
Torque
190 Nm
Economy
56 mpg
Range
566 mi
CO₂
117 g/km
Insurance group
12
Road tax
£35
New price
£12,995
1.2 DiG-T Visia 5d XtronicPetrol Automatic · 2014–2018
Power
113 bhp
0–60 mph
12.3 s
Top speed
115 mph
Torque
165 Nm
Economy
55 mpg
Range
556 mi
CO₂
119 g/km
Insurance group
12
Road tax
£35 - £190
New price
£16,165
1.5 dCi Visia 5dDiesel Manual · 2014–2018
Power
108 bhp
0–60 mph
11.1 s
Top speed
118 mph
Torque
260 Nm
Economy
78 mpg
Range
789 mi
CO₂
94 g/km
Insurance group
13
Road tax
£0 - £190
New price
£16,315
1.2 DiG-T N-Tec 5dPetrol Manual · 2014–2016
Power
113 bhp
0–60 mph
10.5 s
Top speed
118 mph
Torque
190 Nm
Economy
56 mpg
Range
566 mi
CO₂
117 g/km
Insurance group
10
Road tax
£35
New price
£19,495
1.2 DiG-T N-Tec 5d XtronicPetrol Automatic · 2014–2016
Power
113 bhp
0–60 mph
12.3 s
Top speed
115 mph
Torque
165 Nm
Economy
55 mpg
Range
556 mi
CO₂
119 g/km
Insurance group
10
Road tax
£35
New price
£17,845
1.5 dCi N-Tec 5dDiesel Manual · 2014–2016
Power
108 bhp
0–60 mph
11.1 s
Top speed
115 mph
Torque
260 Nm
Economy
78 mpg
Range
789 mi
CO₂
94 g/km
Insurance group
12
Road tax
£0
New price
£17,995

+ 24 more trim variants

FAQs

What are the key features of the Nissan Pulsar Hatchback (2014-2018)?
The Nissan Pulsar Hatchback offers a spacious interior, excellent safety features with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, competitive fuel economy, and advanced technology, making it a reliable choice for families and commuters.
How does the Nissan Pulsar Hatchback perform in terms of fuel economy?
The Pulsar's 1.2-litre petrol engine achieves around 50 mpg, while the diesel variant offers even better figures, making it an economical option for daily commuting.
Is the Nissan Pulsar Hatchback a good choice for families?
Yes, the Nissan Pulsar Hatchback is a solid choice for families due to its spacious interior, high safety ratings, and comfortable ride quality, providing practicality without compromising on safety.
What are the financing options for the Nissan Pulsar Hatchback?
With a starting price of £15,000, financing options through Nissan Finance are available, typically with an APR of 4.9%, making it accessible for many buyers.
What are the main drawbacks of the Nissan Pulsar Hatchback?
The main drawbacks include a lack of driving excitement compared to rivals, sluggish engine performance, and a somewhat bland interior design.

Nissan Pulsar Hatchback (2014 - 2018) (2014–2018)

From £269/month