What’s hot?

• Impressively spacious interior that’s way ahead of its rivals and far better than many cars from the sector above.
• Low emissions on the diesel powered model makes for excellent BIK and car tax rates.
• Safety Shield pack, especially when combined with automatic emergency braking, makes avoiding accidents easier, reducing insurance and repair bills.
• Rear seat space is exemplary and makes the Pulsar a particularly good family vehicle.
• Six speed gearbox fitted as standard to all models.

What’s not?

• Neither engine option produces much power so excitement shouldn’t be top of your list of priorities – although I wouldn’t bet against a hot Nismo variant in the future.
• Entry model priced at £15,995 puts it £2,000 above the revised Ford Focus.
• Automatic ‘XTronic’ gearbox won’t be available until November, and then only on the 1.2-litre petrol engine.
• Full range of safety equipment is only available on higher spec models.
• Handling is vague at best, but that’s mostly because it’s set up to waft rather than race.