While not many buyers like minivans, nobody can deny the degree of practicality they render with their boxy, upright stance. Yes, this is an SUV-dominant world, but Nissan believes minivans are still one of the best haulers for large families. It is why the Japanese automaker has introduced the sixth-generation Serena.
The company unveiled it at the start of 1990, and it improved over the years. Nissan has transformed it into a classy minivan featuring advanced tech and lots of space to carry eight people.
Exterior
The front look takes the form of a brick on wheels to enhance the interior space where the headlights mix in with the big grille. The company confirms it is the broadest windscreen in the class to improve outward visibility. The generous greenhouse and huge side windows further boost the view. The passengers can get in easily through the hands-free sliding door.
Cabin
The 2023 Nissan Serena is more spacious now, with 120 millimeters (4.7 inches) of additional legroom than the 2022 model. The best part is the water-repellent seat upholstery, which families would highly appreciate. Besides, the Serena gets lots of USB ports to charge devices and Wi-Fi to keep kids busy along the way. All occupants can enjoy their own air conditioning controls and pre-cooling AC setting.
Dimensions
According to the variant, the Serena is available in either 4,690 mm (184.6 in) or 4,765 mm (187.5 in) length and 1,695 mm (66.7 in) or 1,715 mm (67.5 in) width. The height also varies between 1,870 mm (73.6 in), 1885 mm (74.2 in), and 1895 mm (74.6 in). The wheelbase is either 3,135 mm (123.4 in) or 3,145 mm (123.8 in), while the weight ranges from 2,110 to 2,235 kilograms (4,652 to 4,927 pounds).
Powertrain
The petrol Serena gets a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated motor producing 150 horsepower (110 kilowatts) and 200 Newton-meters (148 pound-feet) of torque. It is accessible in front or all-wheel drive with a CVT. The second option is the hybrid e-Power (available in only two-wheel-drive). It employs the latest and calmer 1.4-litre petrol mill creating 98 hp (72 kW) and 123 Nm (91 lb-ft). Assisted by an electric motor, the powertrain generates a total of 163 hp (120 kW) and 315 Nm (232 lb-ft).
An excellent amenity is ProPilot 2.0, offering hands-free driving on a freeway, driving at 40 km/h (25 mph) or more for the flagship Luxion variant with e-Power. This model also has ProPilot Park, which identifies parking spaces. The e-Power model also has a power source that can charge electric machines, the same as the electric vehicles that provide bidirectional charging.
Price
The entry-level Serena costs 2,768,700 yen (around $20,000), which jumps to 4,798,200 yen ($34,700) for the hybrid Luxion. The base Serena will be available first this winter, followed by the e-Power Luxion in spring next year.
Source and Images: Motor1