It seems that with the all-new small car Pulse, Renault has decided to penetrate the mass-market with fierce intensity and bring about a huge makeover in its image in India. The French car maker used the platform provided by the first Indian Grand Prix, at the Buddh International Circuit, to unveil its third passenger car for the Indian market, the Pulse hatchback.
The new car from Renault is based on the V-platform, which is also assimilated by Nissan Micra hatchback and Sunny saloon. The Pulse shares its looks with Micra. However, the major differences are a matt black grille at the front and dog-bar, along with the highly prominent Renault logo. The rear end receives a slight revision in the form of tail lamp structure and bumper, as well as the associated logos.
The Pulse is backed by the power of the 1.5-litre dCi diesel motor that also finds a place in the Micra and Mahindra Verito, previously known as Mahindra Renault Logan. The K9K motor is capable of generating a maximum power of 65 bhp and like the Micra; the small car has given immense focus on the driveability and efficiency quotients. The petrol version will be equipped with the 1.2-litre, 80 bhp Micra motor.
Towards the interiors, there is not much of a difference, except from the usual raft of logos. Even the colour combinations and trims available to the buyers are identical to that of Micra. Alloy wheels can make their way to the Pulse hatchback, something that is not currently offered on the Micra.
With the basic variant, starting under Rs. 5.5 lacs, Pulse can possibly intensify the competition in the hatchback segment. Overall, the Pulse could be available between a range of Rs. 5.3 lacs to Rs.6.4 lacs. The commercial launch of the small car will take place in January 2012 at the New Delhi Auto Expo.
It is important to note that Renault's C-segment sedan, which is expected to arrive in India in the second-half of 2012.
Thus, Pulse is expected to surface as a strong contender in the Indian car industry and provide the big break to Renault in the coming time.
