Nissan has previewed the latest model in its modified Nismo line at the 2014 Paris motor show, with the Pulsar Nismo.
Not yet confirmed for production, the Pulsar Nismo follows hot on the heels of updated Juke and 370Z Nismo versions, and features similar upgrades to its styling, running gear and interior, as befits the in-house motorsport arm.
Subscribe to evo magazine
A deep front bumper, diffuser-style rear bumper and aggressive side skirts add a dose of attitude to the Pulsar's styling, as do 19in alloy wheels wrapped in 235/35 R19 tyres. There's also a carbonfibre rear spoiler, twin central exhausts and subtly flared wheel arches. Lower, stiffer suspension and revised steering settings should up the handling ante.
Inside, Nismo changes echo those of the 370Z and Juke Nismos - Alcantara-trimmed seats, a sporty three-spoke steering wheel and alloy pedals. A red-coloured tachometer completes the interior alterations.
Less exciting but more immediately available, Nissan has also added a third engine option to its Pulsar lineup, in the form of the 1.6 DIG-T 190.
With 187bhp, 177lb ft and a standard six-speed manual gearbox performance won't be on the Nismo's level, but Nissan promises it 'delivers performance that outshines rivals'. Nissan's focus on efficiency means it's relatively frugal too, at 47mpg combined and developing CO2 emissions of 138g/km.
Stylistic alterations amount to a new set of diamond-cut and black-painted alloy wheels (17in in Acenta trim, 18in on Tekna models), a unique headlamp design with a black finish to the bezel and a chrome exhaust tip.
Interior tweaks are harder to spot, though Nissan hasn't resisted a splash of carbonfibre-style trim spanning the dashboard and door cards, nor has it omitted contrasting stitching on the three-spoke steering wheel. Leather seats are standard on Tekna models and a set of alloy sports pedals finish things off.
On display at the Paris motor show, the Pulsar DIG-T 190 goes on sale across Europe from Spring 2015. Pricing and full specification details haven't yet been announced.
