The Renault Pulse is a subcompact hatchback produced by the French automaker Renault from 2012 to 2018. While not officially sold in the United States, the Pulse was a significant model for Renault, particularly in markets like Brazil, Russia, and India, where the demand for affordable and fuel-efficient small cars is high. The Pulse is based on the Dacia Logan platform, sharing many components with its sister vehicles. This article will detail the specifications and characteristics of the 1.5 dCi (64 Hp) version of the Renault Pulse, focusing on its technical aspects and position within the subcompact segment.
Renault Pulse 1.5 dCi: An Overview
The Renault Pulse 1.5 dCi represents a key offering in Renault’s lineup for emerging markets. Designed to provide practical transportation with a focus on fuel economy, the Pulse aimed to compete with other subcompact hatchbacks like the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, and Hyundai i20. The 1.5 dCi engine variant was particularly popular due to its balance of performance and efficiency, making it a suitable choice for urban driving and longer journeys. The Pulse offered a relatively spacious interior for its size, along with a decent level of equipment, making it an attractive option for first-time car buyers and small families.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Renault Pulse 1.5 dCi is a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the K9K. This engine produces 64 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. While not a powerhouse, the engine provides adequate performance for everyday driving. The Pulse achieves a combined fuel consumption of 4.3 liters per 100 kilometers (54.7 US mpg or 65.7 UK mpg), making it exceptionally fuel-efficient. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 16 seconds, and it has a top speed of 160 km/h (99.42 mph). The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, enhancing its efficiency and power output. The diesel commonrail fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to both performance and reduced emissions. The engine’s transverse front-engine layout optimizes space utilization within the compact chassis.
Design & Features
The Renault Pulse is a five-door hatchback with a practical and functional design. Its exterior styling is relatively conservative, prioritizing practicality over flamboyant aesthetics. The interior is designed to maximize space for passengers and cargo. The Pulse offers seating for five adults, although rear passenger space is somewhat limited. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 251 liters (8.86 cu. ft.), which is competitive for its class. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, providing enhanced braking control. The Pulse is equipped with an electric power steering system, offering light and precise steering feel. The suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and a semi-independent coil spring arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. Available tire sizes include 165/70 R14 and 175/60 R15, mounted on 14 or 15-inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Pulse |
| Generation | Pulse |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 dCi (64 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 2012 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 54.7 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 65.7 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 23.3 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h |
| Maximum speed (mph) | 99.42 mph |
| Power | 64 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 43.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 2000 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 118.01 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 89.16 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm |
| Cylinder Bore (in.) | 2.99 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm |
| Piston Stroke (in.) | 3.17 in. |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 251 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum (cu. ft.) | 8.86 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 41 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 10.83 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 9.02 UK gal |
| Length | 3805 mm |
| Length (in.) | 149.8 in. |
| Width | 1665 mm |
| Width (in.) | 65.55 in. |
| Height | 1525 mm |
| Height (in.) | 60.04 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 96.46 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 154 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance) (in.) | 6.06 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 165/70 R14; 175/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 14; 15 |
In conclusion, the Renault Pulse 1.5 dCi was a practical and economical subcompact hatchback designed for markets prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability. While not sold in the US, it represented a significant offering for Renault in regions where small, diesel-powered cars were in high demand. Its combination of a fuel-efficient engine, functional design, and reasonable level of equipment made it a competitive choice within its segment.
