Renault Pulse 2012-2014 RxL Optional

Renault India, the fully owned subsidiary of the French automaker has introduced the 2014 version of Pulse hatchback in the market. The car maker has given major updates to the interiors, while retaining its exteriors and internal features. At present, this model series is available with both petrol and diesel engine options out of which, the Renault Pulse RXL Optional is the mid range variant. It sports a 1.5-litre K9K in-line diesel power plant that produces 63.12bhp in combination with a peak torque output of 160Nm, which results in a maximum mileage of 23.08 Kmpl. The manufacturer has not made any changes to the engine as the changes were purely regarding interiors. This latest version is all about interior updates with new color scheme, revoked design and repositioned equipments. This changed the attributes inside the cabin and created a plush environment. Also the car maker is offering an advanced 2-DIN music system that is now available with Bluetooth and AUX-In connectivity. Apart from this, the car maker is also offering a new Cosmo Blue body paint option for the buyers to choose from. It is placed against the likes of Nissan Micra, Maruti Suzuki Swift, Hyundai i20 and Ford Figo in the Indian car bazaar.

Exteriors:

This hatchback has a sleek body structure equipped with ruggedly designed cosmetics. To start with its front, it comes with a distinctly designed radiator grille with chrome perforation and a thick chrome underline. This grille is accompanied with the prominent company's insignia that gives it a magnificent look. The front profile comes with a hexagonal design that includes the grille and air dam, which are separated by a black colored strip. The front bumper has a modernistic design and is fitted with a pair of fog lamps, which enhances the visibility ahead. The best part about the front is its large oval shaped headlight cluster that is powered by high intensity halogen headlamps. Its side profile has a lustrous body design that is equipped with stylish cosmetics. Its door handles and the ORVM caps are in body color, while the B pillars gets the glossy black finish. The car maker has fitted its wheel arches with a set of 14-inch steel wheels in combination with full wheel covers, which makes it look elegant. Coming to the rear, it has a distinct body structure with expressive tailgate and curvy tail light cluster. The rear bumper has a masculine structure and it gets a black colored license plate console, which gives a two tone look.

Interiors:

The all new Renault Pulse RxL Optional trim gets a new piano black color scheme that is accentuated by metallic inserts. The dashboard has a trendy design with a dual color scheme, while its central console has as beautiful structure. The AC vents on central console gets a rectangular design with a chrome surround, while equipments have been positioned nicely, which gives a fresh new look to the interiors. The seats are wide and well cushioned that are integrated with headrests and have been covered with premium quality fabric upholstery. There is a lot of leg space inside, especially in the cockpit as the manufacturer has built this vehicle with a large wheelbase of 2450mm. Also, it has an impressive boot compartment with a 251 litre storage capacity, which is huge. The car maker has equipped several important utility aspects including front cabin lamp, trunk room light, fabric door trims, cup holders, door pockets, day/night inside rear view mirrors, three assist grips, accessory power sockets and several other such aspects.

Engine and Performance:

The company has equipped this premium hatch with an In-line, 1.5-litre, K9K diesel engine that is incorporated with a common rail direct fuel injection system. It has 4-cylinders, 8-valves and is based on a single overhead camshaft valve configuration. It can produce a maximum power output of 63.12bhp at 4000rpm that results in generating a peak torque output of 160Nm at just 2000rpm . The car maker has coupled this engine with a sophisticated 5-speed manual transmission gearbox that transmits the torque output to the front wheels and produces a maximum mileage of about 23.08 Kmpl, which is good.

Braking and Handling:

The company is offering this premium hatch with a sophisticated disc and drum braking mechanism, which is highly reliable. Its front wheels are paired with high performance ventilated disc brakes, while the rear ones have been coupled with drum brakes. In addition to these, the car maker has also equipped it with anti lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist system as optional feature, which reinforces the braking mechanism. Its front axle is fitted with McPherson Strut suspension system , while the rear axle is coupled with a torsion beam type of suspension system, which is further accompanied with coil springs. On the other hand, the car maker is also offering a highly responsive power steering system, which minimizes the the efforts required by driver.

Comfort Features:

The Renault Pulse RXL Optional is the mid range trim and it is equipped with a few advanced comfort features. It comes with a list of features including electric power assisted steering system with tilt adjustment , all four power windows with driver's side one touch up and down function, follow-me home headlamps, electrically adjustable external wing mirrors, on-board trip computer and many other such features. This trim is also blessed with advanced aspects like central locking system, key less entry, automatic climate control system, roof antenna, tachometer, door ajar warning, headlamp on and key off reminder.

Safety Features:

The car maker is offering this trim with some of the most important protective aspects that takes care of safety of passengers and to the car as well. The list includes a driver airbag, anti-pinch safety function on driver side door, child proof rear door locks, head restraints and other advanced features. The car maker is also offering engine immobilizer, high mounted stop lamp and a speed sensing auto door lock . Apart from these, this optional trim also gets passenger air bag, anti lock braking system, brake assist function and electronic brake force distribution system as optional features.

Pros:

1. Spacious Interiors with good comfort features.

2. Lustrous body design with bold cosmetics adds to its advantage.

Cons:

1. Fuel economy can be better.

2. Cost of ownership can be competitive.