Renault has launched the Pulse hatchback at the Auto Expo. This car is a mildly altered version of Nissan’s rather clever Micra.

Under the skin, the two are basically the same. They share the same lightweight V-platform chassis, the same basic suspension and the same gearbox, but unlike the Micra, the Pulse comes with only a Renault K9K 1.5-litre diesel engine that churns out 63bhp and 16.3kgm torque.

What Renault has altered however are the looks. While the basic architecture of the car - with its large arched roof and big cabin - remains, Renault has changed the nose dramatically. The front end is now much sharper-looking, with its raised, crisply styled lights, almost Hyundai-like hexagonal grille and a typical Renault matt-black centre section. The car has a much stronger chin than the Micra, the rear has been mildly altered and Renault says there could be an even sportier version of the car on the cards too. The interiors of the Pulse however are almost identical to those of the Micra, right down to colours and shades.

The Pulse gets an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency figure of 23.08kpl. Two trim levels are on offer.Also on offer is a unique 2+2 year 80,000km warranty and 24 hour roadside and navigation assistance.

The base RXL is priced at Rs 5.77 lakh and it comes with a manual A/C and a driver airbag.

The top-end RXZ is priced at Rs 6.25 lakh and it comes loaded with alloy wheels, automatic climate control, fog lamps and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, rear defoger with timer, roof spoiler dual airbags and a smart access key. RXZ also gets push button start. 

The Pulse will be built at Renault-Nissan’s Chennai plant alongside the Micra.  

Pulse Prices:  (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Diesel Variant only

Pulse RXL: Rs 5.77 lakh

Pulse RXZ Rs 6.25 lakh

Nissan Micra prices (Diesel) (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Micra Base: Rs Rs 5.73 lakh

Micra XV: Rs 6.17 lakh

Also read: Renault Pulse review, test drive