Nissan Pulsar Nismo hot hatch spied

This is our first look at Nissan’s new Golf GTI rivaling Pulsar Nismo after the hot hatch was spied at the Nurburgring during an official Nissan photoshoot. Later this week the Japanese manufacturer is expected to give us all of the details on the latest Nismo model at the Paris Motor Show.

Despite the grainy image, it’s clear the rather ordinary looking Pulsar has been transformed into a pumped-up hot hatch. An aggressive bodykit, darkened alloy wheels and trademark red exterior detailing signify the Nismo treatment. Other exterior tweaks will include a more aggressive rear end and sports exhaust.

But Nissan won’t just dress the Pulsar Nismo with cosmetic tweaks. Under the skin Nissan will extract maximum performance from the 1.6-litre four cylinder turbo engine, with around 247bhp expected from the Pulsar Nismo. To ensure the Japanese manufacturer doesn’t fall behind in the hot hatch power stakes, a more potent 275bhp Nismo RS model is also just around the corner.

Mechanical upgrades such as a limited slip differential and firmer suspension setup will help the Pulsar cope with the added performance. Bigger brakes for improved stopping power and hip-hugging sports seat are also likely additions.

With rivals such as the VW Golf GTI, SEAT Leon Curpa and Renaultsport Megane in sight, the Pulsar Nismo is also expected to substantially undercut rivals on purchase price. Full details will be revealed following its debut at the Paris Motor Show.

Find out about the cars the Pulsar Nismo has to beat in our best hot hatchbacks round-up