First look: Nissan previews next Pulsar SSS

NISSAN used the New York International Auto Show opening on March 23 to preview the return of a bona-fide small hot hatch.

Based on Japan's Tiida hatch - which itself will form the basis of Nissan Australia's Pulsar replacement this year - the Sport Concept is an obvious pointer to a three-door version of the next Pulsar, which could mean a return to the SSS badge not seen here for more than five years.

An obvious move toward the tuned-in teenager market upon which Toyota's Scion brand has made a strong impression, the Sport Concept follows Nissan's Active Azeal concepts as a sort of SEMA-inspired three-door, four-seater hatchback which, above all else, hooks with its dramatic looks.

Nissan describes it as "performance art for the street" and its stance as "video game-like" – which isn’t far off the mark, given the large rear roof-mounted spoiler, sculpted fender lines, deep front spoiler and 20-inch wheels.

The exterior uses metal and carbon-fibre composite components, while the interior treatment includes centre console-mounted support grips, race harnesses in all seating positions and a thumping stereo.