Faults:

The engine block tends to consume large amounts of engine oil without leaving any marks or stains on the ground; if not monitored frequently, this can lead to the car becoming virtually devoid of lubrication between scheduled maintenance intervals.

Spontaneous high idle and cylinder misfire issues that trigger the "Check Engine" light.

The clutch occasionally makes noise and slips. However, over time, this noise goes away.

General Comments:

A small, highly economical car with a surprisingly spacious interior, a pleasant feel, excellent dynamics, and superb handling.

The interior materials are as good as those in the Qashqai. Furthermore, the height adjustment for the driver's seat, combined with the height and reach adjustment for the steering column, make it possible to achieve an excellent driving position. Once inside, the amount of space available to occupants, especially in the rear, comes as a pleasant surprise. Best of all, despite the car’s 4.4-meter length, this generous interior room has been achieved without sacrificing trunk space.

It comes standard with features such as leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob, a navigation system, dual-zone climate control, and sensors for automatic activation of the headlights and windshield wipers.

Beneath the small hood, the 1.2 DIG-T engine prioritizes smooth, pleasant operation over blistering performance. In fact, its response at low to mid-range engine speeds is far more pronounced than it is in the upper reaches of the rev counter. This characteristic makes for a very relaxed and rewarding driving experience; the engine is so flexible that there is little need to frequently work the 6-speed gearbox to maintain a comfortable, effortless cruising pace.

The car’s excellent handling is another of its strengths, especially given its relatively small size. Its suspension is finely tuned, striking a balance between controlling body roll and absorbing road irregularities, which not only ensures a comfortable ride, but also means the car’s reactions in any situation or on any type of road remain predictable and easy to control.

An economical car with a simple, reliable engine. Great for everyday use.

Faults:

Nothing. Bought used a year ago, the car came with full service history and I will continue to look after it.

General Comments:

The modern Pulsar is like a spiritual successor to the 1990s hot hatch Pulsar. This 1.2 version I have is by no means fast, but everything else about the car has a sporty modern feel.

I test drove an Astra and a Focus before this car; nice, but the Pulsar is something a bit different and just as capable as those cars.

You will get around 50 mpg and I would highly recommend this petrol engine over the more common diesel dCi engine, this is more reliable. The car is fun to drive also.

Spacious for a smaller hatch, seats comfortable, and the N-Tec spec has all the electrics you would expect.

In closing if you are after a modern family hatch, take a look at the Pulsar.