YOKOHAMA: Nissan has launched the all-new Serena in Japan.
Sales of petrol-powered models will start this winter, and e-POWER models are to start in spring.
Prices in Japan ranged from 2.7 million yen (RM90,000) to 4.8 million yen (RM157,000).
As an MPV, the sixth generation C28 Serena continues to plug its selling points of spacious seating, convenient utilities and the latest in cutting-edge technologies.
“We have planned and developed the new Serena so that the whole family can spend their precious time together, having great fun,” said Nissan executive vice president Asako Hoshino.
The Serena features the second-generation e-POWER system, now equipped with an all-new 1.4-litre engine. Nissan said the system delivers more powerful and smooth acceleration with less engine noise.
ProPILOT 2.0 advanced driver assistance system is installed in the highest e-POWER grade, the Luxion — the first time such a system that enables hands-off driving (in a single lane on a highway at speeds of 40kph or above) has been adopted in an MPV in Japan.
For all other grades, ProPILOT has now been made standard to help reduce driver fatigue on long road trips.
The Luxion is equipped with ProPILOT Park with memory, which records and recognises parking space lines, marking the first time this technology has been adopted on a Nissan vehicle. The Luxion also has ProPILOT Remote Park.
Steering assist with forward collision avoidance supports steering when avoiding obstacles in front of the vehicle. This technology is also a Nissan first.
The new Serena features the second-generation e-POWER system, now equipped with an all-new, specially developed 1.4 L engine. The system delivers more powerful and smooth acceleration with less engine noise.
The Serena is also equipped with a world-first, energy management technology that controls when the engine turns on and off in accordance with vehicle speed, traffic conditions and the navigation system. Reduced engine operation contributes to a quieter cabin.
Insulation has been improved to make for a quieter cabin, resulting in an easy conversation space, even for rear-seat passengers.
Various design and packaging approaches have been taken with the aim of reducing motion-sickness. These include:
> A wide, open view from inside the vehicle and an optimal display monitor positioning
> All-new seat design that dampens occupant movement
> A highly rigid steering wheel enhances handling stability
> A vehicle structure that deflects crosswinds and reduces shakiness at high speeds
> The second-generation e-POWER system and tighter suspension enable smoother vehicle body movement
> e-Pedal Step, which allows the driver to control vehicle speed by just using the accelerator
All lamps in the Luxion and Highway Star grades are now LED. Nissan claims the windshield is the widest in the MPV category in the market.
As a first for Nissan, the all-new Serena features a switch-type shift for smart looks and ease-of-use. A family friendly feature comes in the form of seat material that is water-repellent.
Nissan said the MPV has the most spacious cabin in the MPV category.
It has 120mm of addional driver legroom compared to the previous generation. A multi-purpose centre seat in the second row allows the vehicle to carry seven or eight passengers. Note that the e-POWER Luxion is strictly a 7-seater.
The dual rear door allows easy loading and unloading, even in small parking spaces. When needed, just the small back door at the top can be used. The side passenger door comes with the hands-free, auto-open function.
Pockets for smartphones and wallets are within easy reach for every seat.
Other useful features include: holders that can accommodate a 500 ml cardboard carton, USB ports, onboard Wi-Fi, and a pre-cooling air conditioning system.
Air conditioning can be controlled by a touch panel, with independent controls for the driver’s seat, passenger seat and rear seats.
An optional 100V AC power source (1500 W) is available for e-POWER models, which can be used to operate electric appliances when outdoor or as a power source, especially helpful in emergencies.
Fourteen body colours are available, including four two-tone combinations.
