The latest Nissan Serena returns, with an upgraded e-power drive system, offering more refinement

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Photos & Text: Augustine Lai

SINGAPORE

If you are keen on compact-sized MPVs, the new Nissan Serena E-Power probably is one of the best examples of versatility, spaciousness, and fuel efficiency; squeezed into a compact footprint.

As boxy as an MPV gets, the Serena E-Power is still able to step-away (a little) from typical, mundane MPV design cues, by incorporating modern elements like sleek LED headlights, which are incorporated into its signature blacked-out V-motion grille. From the side, the glasshouse fills most of the Serena’s side “real estate”; which would translate to plenty of light in the cabin. And speaking of rear estate, the rear of the Serena is as flat as flat can be, so that interior room is maximised.

Getting to know Nissan’s new MPV best, is by getting into the middle of the action first. So, entering the passenger compartment of the Serena is a breeze, this is thanks to its hands-free auto sliding doors, which you now kick from below to activate the sensors; very much like automated kick-action trunk lids these days (which is great if you are managing bag-fulls of shopping).

Over here, you get 1.4m of interior height to move around, ensuring very good head room for front and rear occupants. The interior is also slightly longer, which translates to slightly improved legroom. Since our test car was the 7-seat version, entering and exiting the rear is made easier, all thanks to the individually-adjustable middle row. All seats have also been coated with a (locally-installed) layer of supple Nappa leather, for an even more luxurious feel. The earlier-mentioned larger glass areas, translate to more light within the cabin. To make exiting the vehicle easier for third-row passengers, there is also a set of controls for the sliding doors within easy reach.

Up in-front, the Serena boasts a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. This is near-seamlessly embedded into a panel, which also houses an equal-in-size Digital Instrument Cluster.  Despite the Serena’s compact dimensions, the front compartment feels pleasantly airy. My gripe, which is none of Nissan’s fault, is where the “ERP 2.0” card reader is placed, which does get in the way of anyone occupying the front passenger seat. The infotainment system supports both wireless AppleCarplay and AndroidAuto connectivity, but what is also more important for me, is that unlike some continental brands which have gone on to bury their air-conditioning controls within the infotainment, Nissan had ensured that their control panel for this is separate.

Middle passengers have access to their own trays, complete with cupholders and hooks, located on the front seat backs. Not only do you get added convenience when the kids are in-tow, but I would also know that these things come very useful during long journeys. Additionally, Nissan has ensured that every row gets their own USB charging outlets.

At the rear, the Serena features an innovative dual-tailgate system (like in BMW estate cars), which proves invaluable in tight carparks by allowing access to the boot without the entire tailgate. Moreover, this makes it less fussy when it comes to placing smaller items in the boot. As a plus, the trunk capacity has increased to 280 litres from the 210 litres of its predecessor. To maximise on cargo room, the last row can be folded upward. It would have been great if those seats could be stowed underfloor, but upon looking at the layout of the rear-end, that would have contributed to lesser headspace.

The new Serena, like other E-Power models, is driven solely by an electric motor, mated with a 1.4-litre three-cylinder engine, that acts as a generator to charge the onboard battery. In the previous car, this would be a 1.2-litre unit. Overall, the 1.4 seemingly vibrates less, which contributes to a smoother experience. The E-Power unit produces 161hp and 315 Nm, which drives the front wheels. In-all, I feel that the 315Nm provided by the electric motor is adequate enough to lug 7 or eight occupants.

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Active safety is a priority for the Serena, so it is equipped with a suite of Nissan Safety Shield Technologies, such as Lane Departure Warning, Emergency Braking Warning and Blind Spot Monitoring. Our car is also equipped with Intelligent Cruise Control.

As for consumption figures, I managed around 16km/l, which falls short of Nissan’s claimed 20.4km/l. But I can attribute this to a heavier right foot.

Versatility, combined with remarkable torque on-tap, makes for a very good compact people mover. But the Nissan Serena will not come cheap. Our Highway Star variant would set you back S$211,800 with COE included.

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2024 Nissan Serena E-Power Prestige 7-Seater

Drivetrain type	Hybrid
Engine	1,433cc, inline-3 cylinder DOHC
Power	161hp
Torque	315Nm
Gearbox	Single speed Reduction Gear (A)
Battery	Li-ion, 1.8kWh
0-100km/h	–
Top Speed	–
Fuel Efficiency	20.4km/l
VES Band	A2 – S$5,000
Agent	Tan Chong Motor Sales
Price	S$211,800 with COE and VES
Availability	Now
Verdict	A well-equipped and comfortable car for large families, capable for long journeys

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