Nissan Serena

Model Overview

The Nissan Serena is a mid-size MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) produced by Japan's Nissan Motor. Ever since its debut in 1991 under the "Vanette Serena" nameplate, it has evolved over more than three decades, consistently retaining generous cabin space and solid handling as its core design philosophy to become one of Nissan's pillar models. In the Japanese domestic market (JDM), the Serena has long topped the MPV sales charts and is widely regarded as the classic "go-to MPV for families".

The current sixth-generation Serena (chassis code C28) first made its debut in 2022. In late 2025, Nissan unveiled the facelifted sixth-generation Serena in Japan, with an official market launch slated for February 2026. Built as a 5-door MPV, it is offered in both 7-seater and 8-seater configurations. Prices in the Japanese domestic market range from 2,782,200 Yen to 5,099,600 Yen, equivalent to roughly RM124,000 to RM228,000. This model has yet to be officially introduced to the Chinese Mainland market via official channels, though reports indicate that an official introduction in the future has not been ruled out.

Design Language

The facelifted sixth-generation Serena receives significant cosmetic revisions. Up front, it carries Nissan's signature V-Motion design language, fitted with a newly restyled radiator grille. Different trim levels feature distinct front fascia styling: standard variants sport horizontal chrome slatted grilles; the higher-spec Highway Star V adopts an angular or dot-matrix pattern for a bolder visual stance; whilst the range-topping Luxion variant features an asymmetrical "New V-Motion" grille paired with bespoke alloy rims. The entire exterior lighting setup is fully LED-based, lending it a clean, high-tech aesthetic.

In terms of dimensions, the standard variant measures 4,690 mm in length, 1,695 mm in width, and 1,870 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,870 mm; higher-spec variants (such as the Luxion and Highway Star V) are widened to 1,715 mm, categorising them under Japan's "number 3" passenger car class; meanwhile, the Thai-spec C28 e-Power measures 4,765 mm long and 1,715 mm wide. In profile, it gets a floating roof effect with sleek character lines, complemented by dual powered sliding doors. At the rear, it features "L"-shaped LED taillights. The tailgate retains the signature Dual Back Door setup, allowing just the upper glass window to open for effortless boot access in tight parking spaces.

Inside, the cabin layout is built around an advanced, premium ambience. The facelifted model is equipped with a 7-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch floating infotainment touchscreen. Shift-by-wire push-button gear controls come as standard. Material quality and fit-and-finish have been noticeably enhanced, with generous soft-touch surfaces and intricate stitching elevating overall cabin plushness. The Luxion variant goes a step further with next-generation "Tailor Fit" bespoke upholstery, delivering a supple texture and excellent ergonomic support.

Powertrain & Performance

The sixth-generation Serena is available with two powertrain options: a pure petrol engine and an e-POWER series hybrid system.

The naturally aspirated petrol variant is powered by an MR20DD 2.0-litre inline-four engine producing 150 PS (110 kW) and a peak torque of 200 Nm, mated to an Xtronic CVT gearbox. It is configured in front-engine, front-wheel drive (2WD).

The e-POWER hybrid variant features an HR14DDe 1.4-litre inline-three engine acting purely as an on-board generator, paired with a high-output electric drive motor. The petrol engine puts out 98 PS (73 kW) and 123 Nm of torque; the primary drive motor delivers 163 PS (120 kW) and 315 Nm. Selected variants add a rear-axle motor to form the e-4ORCE electric all-wheel-drive system. Both 2WD and 4WD configurations are available. Official 0-100 km/h acceleration figures are not published. Four drive modes are selectable: ECO, NORMAL, SPORT, and EV. The fuel tank capacity stands at 52 litres.

Chassis & Handling

Under the skin, the sixth-generation Serena carries over the proven platform of its predecessor. Detailed suspension component specs have not been fully disclosed by the carmaker. e-POWER variants feature the e-Pedal Step one-pedal drive mode—enabling drivers to accelerate and decelerate solely via the throttle pedal, with the facelift adding a last-mode memory function.

For driving dynamics, Nissan offers the sportier AUTECH SPORTS SPEC variant, which gains bespoke suspension tuning (dedicated springs and dampers), added structural rigidity (front and rear subframe braces), and retuned speed-sensing electric power steering (EPS). In addition, variants equipped with e-4ORCE manage front-to-rear power delivery alongside individual wheel braking to maintain confident handling and high-speed stability on slippery or low-grip surfaces like snow.

Cabin & Equipment

The smart cockpit represents one of the major highlights of the facelift. It introduces the NissanConnect infotainment system with Google built-in for the first time, offering direct access to Google Play, Google Maps, and Google Assistant. The head unit supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Higher-spec models can be specified with a 15.6-inch rear-seat entertainment roof monitor.

In terms of seating arrangements, the Serena comes in standard 2+2+3 7-seater and 2+3+3 8-seater layouts. The facelift introduces a new Multi Box variant—swapping out the third-row bench for an oversized cargo box in a 4-seater or 5-seater layout; folding the rear seats down yields a completely flat floor which, paired with a waterproof mat, doubles as a resting deck for day trips or camping. Seats are finished in a combination of synthetic leather and fabric. The second row features Captain Seats with 4-way adjustment.

On the convenience front, top-spec variants feature dual powered sliding doors with hands-free kick sensor activation. The driver's footwell walk-through aisle has been widened by 120 mm over the previous generation, making moving across the front row far easier. The third-row seats offer 120 mm of sliding travel, ensuring usable boot space even when fully occupied. Other amenities include a Qi wireless smartphone charger, multi-zone automatic climate control, and ambient lighting.

Safety & Driver Assistance

For occupant protection, the Serena comes standard with 6 airbags (dual front, front side, and full-length curtain airbags) across all variants. Active safety is handled by the Nissan Intelligent Mobility suite, packing Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW), Intelligent Emergency Braking (IEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) with Intelligent Lane Intervention (LI), as well as Blind Spot Warning (BSW) with Blind Spot Intervention (BSI). Standard dynamic systems include ABS, EBD, Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), and Hill Start Assist (HSA). The facelift also adds a Rear Occupant Alert feature to remind drivers not to leave passengers or belongings behind when stepping out.

On the ADAS front, the entire Serena line-up gets the ProPILOT driver assistance system as standard. The top-of-the-line Luxion variant steps up to ProPILOT 2.0, allowing hands-off driving within a single highway lane. In addition, the Luxion is equipped with ProPILOT Park automated park assist (with memory function) and ProPILOT Remote Park remote-controlled parking. The 360-degree parking camera setup is powered by the Intelligent Around View Monitor (IAVM), adding 3D View, Front Wide View, and Both Side Mirror Closed View modes.

Market Performance & Verdict

The Serena remains one of Nissan's most successful MPVs globally. In its home market of Japan, the nameplate has consistently stayed at the top of the MPV sales charts. As of 2026, with six generations spanning over thirty years, the Serena has amassed an enviable cumulative sales record.

In the Chinese Mainland, the Serena has not yet been officially launched by Dongfeng Nissan, trickling in only in modest numbers through grey-market parallel importers. Market analysts suggest that should the Serena be officially introduced, its practical mix of 2.0L naturally aspirated and e-POWER hybrid drivetrains, modular 7/8-seater layouts, and comprehensive ADAS package would make it a strong contender in the RM200,000 family MPV segment, going head-to-head with rivals like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna.

All in all, having catered specifically to family motoring needs for over three decades, the Nissan Serena continues to set the benchmark in the Japanese and Southeast Asian MPV segments thanks to its ultra-flexible seating, class-topping cabin packaging, advanced e-POWER series hybrid powertrain, and cutting-edge ProPILOT 2.0 driver assistance technology.