Wheels Magazine 
June, 2004
Nissan Pulsar Q
Nissan's Pulsar Q is one of only two cars here with 16-inch alloys, and the only one with a full-size spare (steel) wheel. The tyres have claws, too, but the springs and dampers aren't always in accord, particularly on mid-corner bobbles or heaves. Handling and comfort are only acceptable on smooth roads.
The steering is quick, but overly light and possesses very few communication skills. At least Q's brakes are decent.
Its engine is tractable in the 'burbs, but makes more noise and vibration than impression above 5000rpm. Performance reaches middle-order standing, but consumption plummets when engine and gears are used keenly. The clutch is user-friendly, and the floppy gearchange surprisingly precise.
Pulsar's well-shaped and amply padded front seats have lumbar adjustment and two-way cushion tilt, but the dash's cool dials contrast with uglier aspects of the plasticky interior.
The British-built hatch body is individual and attractive, and there's ample rear headroom and average luggage space, but the rear-seat environment has marginal kneeroom, and is both boomy and bouncy.
The Q does have a low price and good resale, but it's a dour drive that lacks polish.
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