Nissan Serena C28

The Nissan Serena is now on its sixth generation and it's ready to tackle against the newest versions of the Toyota Noah/Voxy and Honda StepWGN minivans with its revised design, interior, and fuel-efficient powertrain worth scratching their roofs. Time to have a peek at the new model.

2023 Nissan Serena

Priced at 2,768,700 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new, sixth-generation, Nissan Serena can be somewhat costlier to own than the new Toyota Noah but cheaper to own than the new Honda StepWGN by comparison, meaning this is the second choice of the three new Japanese minivans launched in 2022. For a minivan that is right on the money in today's economy, there's so much to talk about it, starting with its new design.

2023 Nissan Serena

2023 Nissan Serena

2023 Nissan Serena AUTECH

While retaining the boxy design from its predecessors, the new design features a dramatic but radical front face some would call controversial, probably because of the updated expression of Nissan's V-Motion grille. In the normal versions, it looks right but on the high-end Highway Star and e-POWER Luxion versions, the front grille's enlarged to make a huge statement, even with its optional Front Dynamic Pack on. The AUTECH variant, meanwhile, is a massive dark blue showoff in both urban and rural environments. Whichever Serena you're on, the new design made a huge impression, albeit with divided results.

2023 Nissan Serena interior

2023 Nissan Serena interior

Amid the polarizing exterior, the new interior is something the new Serena C28's worth proud of; the spacing that will upset the competition in its class. Sure, the driver's view is totally minimalized while the instrumental panel's digitalized a la Nissan Note, the gear lever was replaced by a set of buttons, and the aircon features touch panels, which is worth a challenge for those wearing gloves, but in terms of passenger space, this is the most family-friendly Serena ever built.

Whether it's a six-seater or an eight-seater, the best-in-class interior and boot space are what made the Serena C28 ahead of the curve. With the two-way tailgate that can be opened either the whole door or the rear window as well as the Hands-Free Auto Slide Door carried over from the C27 predecessor, it's still the most practical Serena ever built for modern Japanese families.

2023 Nissan Serena

Asked about performance, the Nissan Serena C28 is powered by two powertrains. Starting with the 2.0L MR20DD petrol engine, it produces 150PS of power and 200Nm of torque. Mated to a CVT gearbox, it delivers a 13kmpl combined fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards. The e-POWER variants, meanwhile, saw a size increase to its petrol engine that powers the electric motor from the C27's 1.2L to the new model's HR14DDe 1.4L engine. With the new 1.4L petrol engine powering the 120kW EM57 electric motor, it delivers up to 20.6km/L combined fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards. Although not as fuel-efficient as the Noah, it beats the StepWGN e:HEV by a razor-thin margin. Because this is e-POWER, it has a little kick on that thing when you put your foot down.

While the suspension setup is the most enjoyable to drive for a minivan thanks to its rear multilink suspension, the Nissan Serena C28 is, by all means, the safest Serena ever built because of its ProPilot 2.0 carried from the Skyline V37. ProPilot 2.0 uses a wide array of sensors capable of hands-free driving while cruising in a single lane, although drivers still need to keep their eyes on the road. It's reminiscent of Tesla's Autopilot in various ways but you get the point. With the ProPilot 2.0 coupled with noteworthy advanced driving aids around it, it's the most technologically-advanced Serena you'll ever drive.

With its questionable looks, best-in-class interior space, the enlarged e-POWER powertrain, the most advanced safety features fitted to a minivan like this, and decent value for money, the Nissan Serena C28 truly is a Japanese minivan adapted for the new normal. As a decent rival to the newest versions of the Toyota Noah/Voxy and the Honda StepWGN, the Nissan Serena C28 is a tour de force in the minivan market with a little drama. Is this the best Japanese minivan you would like to drive?

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Nissan Serena C27 and Skyline V37 (2020 facelift)

Two of the most noteworthy Nissans in the lineup, the Serena C27 and the Skyline V37 have been facelifted for the 2020 model year with newly redesigned looks, new features, and so much more. So, what's in store for the minor changes of these Nissans?

2020 Nissan Serena

First off, the updated version of the current-generation Nissan Serena. Starting below the 2.53 million Yen bracket, the C27 minor change features a newly redesigned exterior that looks somewhat noticeable by many. The base Serena now looks like the pre-facelift model's Highway Star variant, while the Highway Star variant now dons a massive grille that stretches toward the front bumper, which is rather odd for Japan's best-selling minivan but either way, the new models featured a redesigned wheels and a revised rearview.

On the inside, the Serena features a revised instrumental panel, optional waterproof seats in case the whole family went canoeing at the riverside, and pretty much it.

The choice of powertrains remains the same as the 2020 Nissan Serena is powered with choice of an MR20DD 2.0L petrol engine with a 1.8kW electric motor bolted on it for the S-HYBRID variant, and the popular choice e-POWER variant where the HR12DE petrol engine serves as a range extender for the 126PS electric motor and while it doesn't need charging like most electric cars do, the e-POWER variant will be getting 26.2km/L of fuel economy in the JC08 scale, which is outdated but rather impressive for a minivan like this.

Promising to be the safest Serena ever made since its launch three years ago, the 2020 Nissan Serena is offered numerous safety features, including a revised ProPilot with improved speed control. With a wide array of safety features that lets the Serena stop automatically, detects blind spots, suppresses false starts, and more, it's no doubt that this is the safest minivan Japanese families can't get enough of.

2020 Nissan Skyline

Next up, is the Nissan Skyline V37, and for the latest minor change, which starts at around 4.3 million Yen, not only the GT-R-styled front face that made the Skyline V37 striking to look at, but it's also the implementation of the brand new ProPilot 2.0 semi-autonomous tech as well as the first-ever VR30DDTT 3.0L Twin Turbo engine but more with that later on because let's look at the design first.

The previous Skyline V37 featured some Infiniti badges unknown to most Japanese customers for numerous reasons but for the 2020 minor change, the Nissan badge is back in the Skyline, and with the GT-R-styled nose slapped onto it, you can see that the luxury sports saloon is starting to take shape but please behave, people, because while the front looks like the GT-R, it's still the Skyline made for the posh gentlemen rather than for speedo boys.

On the inside, nothing's changed a bit, especially the twin monitors on the dashboard where the top one's for display and the bottom one's a touch screen. The double monitors, the steering wheel, the gear lever, they're all the same as last time.

Now, let's talk more about the ProPilot 2.0, which is available in the Skyline V37 minor change. The new and improved tech uses a wide array of sensors capable of hands-free driving while cruising in a single lane, although drivers still need to keep their eyes on the road. It kind of feels like the Autopilot from the Tesla but despite its scary-but-unique hands-free driving, the new feature isn't foolproof though so think smart before using this ultra-smart feature on the highway.

Couple that with numerous safety features and the result is a much safer experience, which is rather un-Skyline-ish, but if you want more for the Skyline, let's talk about performance.

While the Nissan Skyline still retains the Hybrid powertrain with the VQ35HR 3.5L petrol engine bolted to an electric motor, a Li-ion battery, and a 7-speed AT, the facelift introduces the brand new VR30DDTT 3.0L Twin Turbo engine. In the range-topping 400R variant, it produces 405PS of power and 475Nm of torque through the rear wheels and it's mated to a 7-speed AT. The 400R serves as the range-topper of the V37 and if you want something more powerful than the Lexus IS, consider this.

Apart from the engine choices, the 2020 Skyline comes with other features such as the revised Intelligent Dynamic Suspension with Direct Adaptive Steering.

These two recently facelifted Nissans are up for grabs in the midst of the autumn season so those who wanted something family-oriented should go for the Serena while those who wanted a luxury sports saloon that delivers a no-filter drive should go for the Skyline.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Nissan Serena C27 e-Power

Two years ago, Nissan introduced the world with the revolutionary hybrid powertrain known as e-Power on the Note minor change and because it works like it should be, they made the Note as one of the best-selling compacts in Japan and looks like they're onto something here. With the Note e-Power's success, their revolutionary hybrid powertrain has expanded to the Serena minivan, making this people mover going the distance for more while your kids behind you are napping with their pillows on their heads.

2018 Nissan Serena e-Power

So, if you need a refresher of how e-Power works, better listen carefully and don't snooze off, okay? e-Power features a full electric-motor drivetrain in which the wheels are completely powered by the electric motor, and its 1.2L HR12DE engine simply charges the batteries. The way how electricity is made is what differs it from an electric vehicle or conventional hybrid and with e-Power, the 1.2L HR12DE engine and the wheels are not connected similar to an electric car as the power is sourced from the petrol engine, allowing it to run without having to charge the battery from an external source. Because the batteries are 1/20th the size of the ones from the Nissan LEAF, its compact sizing made it to fit under the front seats without cramping the interior space.

As a result, the e-Power powertrain delivers 26.2km/L of fuel economy under the soon-to-be-defunct JC08 Mode standards, meaning that this is the most fuel efficient minivan in its class. A recently launched Honda StepWGN Spada Hybrid can only do 25km/L and that's it. That all sounds nice but sadly, the e-Power variant is offered exclusively in front-wheel drive only.

The Serena e-Power can be operated in different driving modes at the switch of a button. In normal mode, the 1.2L petrol engine is only active while in EV mode, it uses some of the energy from the batteries to continue the journey for more, and in S mode, both the engine and the electric motor are all out, making it more responsive and more dynamic. Of course, there's also other stuff in the Drive mode such as Manners Mode for some silent running while driving on the subdivision and then Charge Mode that lets the drivetrain charges the batteries.

Of course, to help differentiate the Serena e-Power to other Serena variants, they have been given some blue accents to the front grille but still, it works just like a normal Serena. You still have some of the goodies such as the the same two-way tailgate that can be opened either the whole door or the rear window, the same ProPILOT semi-autonomous driving tech, and the same Hands Free Auto Slide Door. This is a family mover that while it was not meant for enjoyable driving purposes, it works for family trips like going to grandma's house and then back home without stopping for fuel, I hope.

2018 Nissan Serena e-Power AUTECH

The Serena e-Power starts at 2,968,920 Yen (around $30,000/1,500,000 Php) and by pricing standards, that sits between the StepWGN Spada Hybrid and the hybrid variants of the Toyota Noah/Voxy vans. If the normal Serena e-Power is too bland, consider the AUTECH variant featuring a specially-made front face (including that fancy looking grille), LED fog lamps, side slip protector, special rear bumper, special rims, and suede interior, not to mention the special Shining Blue exterior paint. It costs 3,821,040 Yen (around $39,000/1,950,000 Php). Almost a million yen more than the normal one.

So, there we are. When you wake up in early morning, trying to wake the kids up, pack some stuff, and heading off to granny's house for a weekend drive, consider the new Serena e-Power as your best bet.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Nissan Serena C27 AUTECH

Nissan made AUTECH as their new premium sub-brand that blends sportiness and premium quality on everyday Nissan vehicles and the first outing for the AUTECH brand is none other than Nissan's best-seller minivan, the Serena C27.

2018 Nissan Serena AUTECH

Before explaining what's it all about the new Serena AUTECH, what is this AUTECH brand anyway? AUTECH was known for making specially customized Nissans under the Axis and Rider banner as well as making special edition models. With the banner of "Premium Sporty", Nissan's AUTECH sub-brand wants to be their answer to Honda's Modulo X line of specialty vehicles and the Serena C27 is just the start of the story.

Known to be the replacement of the Serena Rider specialty vehicle, which is made by AUTECH of course, the all-new Serena AUTECH features special cosmetic treatments inside and out but they didn't bother touching the specs, which means, the S-HYBRID powertrain with total energy management that takes charge to the sub-battery unit, eco motor, idling stop, the MR20DD 2.0L petrol engine, and the CVT remains the same as the normal Serena.

The Serena AUTECH features a specially-made front face (including that fancy looking grille), LED fog lamps, side slip protector, special rear bumper, special rims, and suede interior, not to mention the special Shining Blue exterior paint. For the SPORTS SPEC upgrade, the Serena AUTECH comes with MICHELIN PILOT SPORT 4 tires, specially reinforced body, specially made suspension that is somewhat between comfort and twitchy, special ECM, Electric Power Steering, and Vehicle Dynamics Control. Although it looks cool on the road, it's not as sporty as it hoped for and in the case of having three kids in the middle, it rather just spoils the taste when used as a family car but so what? It's a Serena and this is what it was made for.

The Serena AUTECH starts at 2,985,120 yen for 2WD models while 4WD models start at 3,218,400 yen.

Expect more additions to the AUTECH range when the X-TRAIL and the Note joining the AUTECH fleet very soon but don't get too excited just yet because although sporty in looks, they behave pretty much the same as your average Nissan.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Nissan Serena C27 NISMO

When Nissan decided to make a NISMO version of the latest Serena minivan, some enthusiasts have gone a little "oh my gawd" because why is Nissan's high-performance division now working on family cars like this one aside from our favorites such as the GT-R and the Fairlady Z and what are they accomplishing for? Everyday cars like the Juke and the Note have been given the NISMO treatment and soon the Leaf while cars like the X-TRAIL have been given a lesser NISMO Performance Package that gives only NISMO styling and nothing else. That's what NISMO is all about now so is there any particular reason why a family minivan like the Serena has been given the NISMO treatment?

2018 Nissan Serena NISMO

2018 Nissan Serena NISMO interior

The design looks pretty much the same as the normal Serena and so is the interior, the same two-way tailgate that can be opened either the whole door or the rear window, the same ProPILOT semi-autonomous driving tech, the same Hands-Free Auto Slide Door, and the same MR20DD-SM20 S-Hybrid powerplant mated to a CVT gearbox but because this is the NISMO variant, which I believed to be a custom variant of the Serena C27, there are some few differences in store to this family mover.

First off, it's been given added downforce due to the improved aerodynamics inspired by Super GT racing, a much fatter Bridgestone POTENZA Adrenaline RE003 tires for added grip, a more rigid body, a specially-made suspension that balances sporty driving with minivan-riding comfort, and a sports-tuned exhaust courtesy of a revamped computer system. 

What's the result? With all that NISMO junk in the minivan, the Serena NISMO doesn't behave like a normal Serena at all. It's just somewhat less nice to handle, slightly more chance to wake the kids behind you on the way home, and on the trip to the grocery, people think that you're a boy racer with a wife and kids on board, and when you opt for even more extras such as front Recaro sports seats, there's no telling what kind of minivan owner are you when you realize that your Serena has some bits and bobs of a Super GT500 GT-R, minus the GT-R part, and the Super GT part, and the angry roar.

With prices starting at ¥3,419,280, it's more expensive to own than a normal Serena Highway Star variant which works rather well for the typical Japanese family. So, a NISMO-tuned Serena sounds like a good idea from the start, your family may not be going to like how it behaves and unless you're single, you'd better stick for the normal Serena Highway Star variant for now because family life could get dysfunctional if you've gone for a Serena that has some bits and bobs that came from NISMO's motorsport knowledge.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Suzuki Landy SGC27

Of course, with the collaboration between Nissan and Suzuki is slowly killing following Nissan's control of Mitsubishi Motors that spurs more than just kei cars, it seems that the last car of the Suzuki-Nissan partnership, the Serena-based Landy, is the only one left. Sure, Suzuki wanted to kill off the Landy from their lineup but with a little spark from their nearly extinct partnership, Suzuki decided to borrow a base-spec Nissan Serena C27 for their all new Landy minivan, just to see if their is little left for their partnership that is about to end soon.

2017 Suzuki Landy

2017 Suzuki Landy

Using a base-spec Nissan Serena C27 as its foundation, the new Suzuki Landy is an MPV that is well-fit for the working-class Japanese families in a multitude of prefectures everywhere and it's hard to tell the difference between the original and the borrowed one, the new Landy is still the same story as what others expected from the latest Nissan Serena.

2017 Suzuki Landy interior

Being an MPV, the new Landy offers anything what an MPV should offer. Dual sliding doors, a choice of six or seven seats, loads of compartments to store your stuff, different seating arrangements, USB ports to attach your gadgets, climate control, plasmacluster, there's even that signature dual back door as seen from the latest Nissan Serena; the one that can open either in half or in whole. Perfect for tailgating parties, camping trips, or anything you want to do on your day off or weekends with your family or friends.

2017 Suzuki Landy

Because the Landy is basically a base-spec Nissan Serena C27 borrowed by Suzuki for their last-ditch effort to preserve their wilting partnership, the new model comes with the improved S-HYBRID powertrain with total energy management that takes charge to the sub-battery unit, eco motor, idling stop, the MR20DD 2.0L petrol engine, and the CVT, capable of delivering just 16.6km/L. That's it.

For safety, because this is just a base-model Serena with no features as well as the ProPILOT tech from the high-end models, the Landy offers a host of driver assist features such as the Emergency Brake feature that halts the car by itself when it spots a moving object upfront at slow speeds as well as Lane Departure Warning, Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection,

Parking Assist, Hill Hold Control, and Auto Light System, among many others.

The new Landy starts at 2,500,200 Japanese Yen (around $22,000 or 1,100,000 Pesos) and with a very reasonable pricing for a Serena-based minivan, it's a clear reminder that while it may be the last car that was part of their Nissan-Suzuki partnership that's about to be declared extinct following Nissan's takeover of Mitsubishi Motors, the Landy is an ideal family car that wants to be taken very seriously with care. It may not have most of the sweet spots as the latest Serena but the new Landy's reasonable pricing, fuel efficiency, and family-friendly features will make it yours.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

Nissan Serena C27

The Nissan Serena has been with every Japanese families for over twenty-five years and to commemorate the minivan's 25 years of stamping out memories on every Japanese families everywhere, a new, technologically-advanced, fifth-generation Nissan Serena was launched and contrary by many, it will be the first semi-autonomous Nissan ever made courtesy of its brand new ProPILOT semi-autonomous tech that will make driving a lot easy for the dads and moms.

2017 Nissan Serena

Time to clue the new Serena in right now, but first, let's look at the new Serena's design. Although it still looks the same as the previous Serena, you'll see a hint of modern nostalgia sprinkled on the new design. Take the front, for instance, it looks like a quirky blend of the old C23 Serena and the old Toyota Vellfire, judging from the headlights. Although the design looks a bit stale, if I'm honest, it's still as fresh as the morning dew. One things for sure, though, with foreign Nissan cars getting the V-Motion look, seems that the Nissan Serena C27 is has a much toned down look of the V-motion grille that foreign Nissans had and for Nissan, this whole V-motion look just isn't look right on Japanese roads, presumably.

2017 Nissan Serena interior

On the inside, everything's new from the dashboard, the instrumental cluster, even the steering wheel inspired by the GT-R as well. There's more conveniences in store for the passengers, including an optional stand where they can put stuff on it and hold cups with its own cupholders made on it. That's fit enough on their next road trip from their grandparents' home to a faraway prefecture they've never been before. Because it's made to be a family car full-stop, spacing is top-notch for the new Serena C27 and with all seats present, there's enough room for your grocery shoppings. Once more, the new Serena comes with the world's first Hands Free Auto Slide Door, which works like the fancy liftgate most Ford crossovers had but this time, at the lift of your foot, the door automatically slides, which is useful when you're carrying a child or something.

The sat-nav now comes with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility and speaking of which, the Nissan Serena is the first Japanese car offered in Japan to come with Android Auto for the first time so if you have your Android phone handy, now's your chance to take advantage of it. Because the Nissan Serena C27 is the first to have Android Auto on the Japanese market, expect more Japanese cars to follow shortly.

2017 Nissan Serena

Okay, now it's the ideal time to investigate the new Serena C27's brand new tech called ProPILOT so what's it all about this semi-autonomous tech? With Nissan's ambition of launching cars with autonomous tech for the safety of drivers in mind, the new Serena's just the start of it with this specially-made variant to accommodate this new feature. By the time this new generation Serena was launch, the ProPILOT is set for single-lane traffic use in the meantime. Made for highway use at that time, the ProPILOT tech is made to hold the vehicle in the middle of a lane by reading markers and control steering. It can ever follow curves, and it automatically controls the distance between the next car ahead. Because this is just the start, the ProPILOT is on a self-propagating phase as when it features it on future Nissan vehicles, its tech gets evolved even further. Sounds like witchcraft for us but skeptics and believers can't wait to see what's in store for the new ProPILOT gizmo. Couple that with Nissan's Safety Shield technology, and you got yourself a safe minivan that cares about its occupants more than the car itself.

2017 Nissan Serena

So, that's one safety masterpiece mentioned in the new Serena C27. Now, what about its performance? As you may aware, the new model comes with the improved S-HYBRID powertrain with total energy management that takes charge to the sub-battery unit, eco motor, idling stop, the MR20DD 2.0L petrol engine, and the CVT, capable of delivering a class-leading 17.2km/L, 1.2km/L more than the previous Serena S-HYBRID as well as a normal petrol-powered Toyota Noah/Voxy vans. As for dynamics, it feels like what all Asian vans behave on a daily basis with courtesy of its Rack and Pinion Steering, Strut and Torsion Beam suspension setup, and ventilated disc brakes.

2017 Nissan Serena Rider

The all-new Nissan Serena C27 starts at 2,435,400 Japanese Yen for the base S model while the Highway Star version starts at 2,678,400 Yen, 2,916,000 Yen if you go for the one with the ProPILOT tech. For something stylish, you can go for the Autech Rider version for 2,949,480 Yen or for something special, a special Autech Rider 30th anniversary model, commemorating Autech Japan's 30th anniversary, was offered for 3,480,840 Yen. Of course, that pricing does not come with the optional ProPILOT feature, unless if you want to add one for a limited time only.

With its new design, fuel-efficient performance, advanced safety tech, and a family-friendly packaging, the new Serena C27 is a key turning point for Nissan in their ambition for a safe driving for all drivers everywhere and when the ProPILOT Serena is successful, it will soon feature it in future Nissan models in their portfolio.

Available colors: Maroon Red/Diamond Black 2 Tone, Brilliant White Pearl/Diamond Black 2 Tone, Diamond Black/Brilliant Silver 2 Tone, Cashmere Greige/Imperial Amber 2 Tone, Azurite Blue, Maroon Red, Cashmere Greige, Imperial Amber, Diamond Black, Brilliant Silver, Brilliant White Pearl, and Shining Blue.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Suzuki Landy (C26) 2014 Minor Change

2014 Suzuki Landy

2014 Suzuki Landy

The Nissan Serena-derived Suzuki Landy, currently on its C26 generation, gets a minor change and what can you expect on the latest minor change? To find out, let's look back at the Nissan Serena C26 minor change because just in case someone had an amnesia for no reasons. However, this is no time to looking back because here are the details:

Thanks to the Nissan Serena C26's minor change last month; Suzuki managed to borrow one of these and for the latest version it inherits what just the Serena C26 did; new headlamps, a new front grille, new alloy wheels, and new LED rear combination brake lamps with an S-shaped design. On the inside, it still looks intact to me. The 2014 Landy is available only as an 8-seater and with that, it comes with 14 seat configurations to choose from depending on the scenario the user faces.

Again, like the Nissan Serena C26 minor change, the 2014 Landy's MR20DD engine along with its smart and simple S-HYBRID system, now has an improved fuel economy of 16kmpl under Japan's JC08 Mode standards.

For added safety, the latest update now comes with Emergency Brake, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), AVM (Around View Monitor) with MOD (Moving Object Detection), Emergency Assist for pedal misapplication and Driver Attention Alert.

The entry level 2.0S model with 2WD layout starts at 2,241,750 Japanese Yen while the top-end 2.0G with 4WD starts at 2,995,650 Japanese Yen.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

2014 Nissan Serena C26 Minor Change

2014 Nissan Serena

It's a new Nissan Serena! Well sort of. Anyway, the fourth-generation Nissan Serena gets is first facelift after having been around since its 2010 debut. It maybe a worth contender in the MPV market but don't be fooled, the Nissan Serena has been a favorite among Japanese families when it comes to conveniences, fuel economy, and refinement. Now, let's get my 47 Second Science ready.

2014 Nissan Serena

On the facelifted Nissan Serena C26, the exterior design hosts a wide array of changes to keep Japan's favorite MPV updated for more. The front bumper's revised, the headlamps now looking similar to next year's Nissan Elgrand E52 facelift, a new front grille, new alloy wheels, and new LED rear combination brake lamps with an S-shaped design. On the inside, it still looks intact to me. It's still comes with a choice of a 7-seater or an 8-seater. With the 8-seater model, it comes with 14 seat configurations to choose from depending on the scenario the user faces.

2014 Nissan Serena interior

2014 Nissan Serena interior

Nissan said that the 2WD S-Hybrid model, the one with the small electric motor fitted alongside the MR20DD engine, now has improved fuel consumption and how much is it? 16kmpl in JC08 Mode standards. Aside from being more fuel-efficient than the pre-facelifted model, the Serena C26 is now made even safer with the addition of Emergency Brake, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), AVM (Around View Monitor) with MOD (Moving Object Detection), Emergency Assist for pedal misapplication and Driver Attention Alert.

2014 Nissan Serena

Because this is the S-HYBRID model, this Serena comes with an ECO Motor which controls Idling Stop and functions as an alternator during deceleration. Of course, it even comes with an Idling Stop System, which shuts down the engine when idle, and restarts in just 0.3 seconds after the brake is released.

The new 2014 Nissan Serena C26 starts at 2,184,000 Yen for the entry-level 20S model up to 3,018,750 Yen for the 20G with the "Advanced Safety Package". For recommendation, Nissan recommends the Highway Star model with the Emergency Brake option for 2,568,300 Yen, the Highway Star model with the Advanced Safety Package for 2,654,400 Yen, and for 2,927,400 Yen, the Highway Star G Advanced Safety Package. What's a Highway Star G you ask? It's the one with the 16-inch alloys on it.

Available Colors: Tiger Eye Brown, Blue Moon White Pearl, Premium Deep Coral, Rose Bronze, Brilliant White Pearl, Diamond Black, Brilliant Silver, Crystal Mist, and Solid White.

Photo: Nissan Motor Company

Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID

2013 Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID

2013 Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID

2013 Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID

For the 2013 Model Year, all 2WD variants of the Nissan Serena C26 minivan (well except the entry level 20S variant), from normal, Highway Star, and Autech Rider, will receive the brand's newly-developed simple hybrid system called "Smart Simple Hybrid (S-Hybrid)". We know, we seen that ad featuring some guy belonged to the J-pop boy band, ARASHI.

The 2013 Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID has its regeneration capacity and output power of the "Eco Motor," upgraded. If you don't know what is an "ECO MOTOR", it is an alternator that is used for Nissan's Serena having an idling stop mechanism and capable of restarting an engine. They've even added a lead sub-battery in the engine room for extended energy regeneration capacity. With all that technology, the 2013 Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID has a fuel economy of 15.2km/L (approx 35.8mpg) under the JC08 test mode.

Prices for the Nissan Serena C26 S-HYBRID start at around 2,384,550 Japanese Yen for the 20X S-HYBRID up to 3,144,750 Japanese Yen for the Autech Rider Performance Spec Black Line S-HYBRID.

Source: http://www2.nissan.co.jp/SERENA/grade.html

Available for the 2013 model year is the special edition CROSS GEAR grade which comes with waterproof seats. It will cost about 2,584,050 Japanese Yen for the 20X Cross Gear S-HYBRID variant and 2,828,700 Japanese Yen for the 20X Cross Gear 4WD grade.

Source: http://www2.nissan.co.jp/SERENA/customize_crossgear.html

It's available now at Nissan Red Stage and Nissan Blue Stage dealerships across Japan.

KENSTYLE EIK Serena C26

KENSTYLE EIK Serena C26

The Nissan Serena C26 was definitely the most fuel-efficient Serena ever made but if styling is not enough for your desire for "flexing" and "winding", the guys at KENSTYLE lets you modify the Serena C26 that is somewhat fit for the "cruising" type.

Customers can modify the Serena C26 with front half spoiler, front grille, front fins, and rear half spoiler. That won't be complete without a quad exhaust courtesy of Fujitsubo (sold separately).

URL: http://www.kenstyle.co.jp/info2.php?id=234

Autech's Killer Elite

Nissan's Customize Car brand, Autech Japan, has just unleashed their KILLER ELITE. That's right, the Autech Rider Black Line has arrived and the Nissan Elgrand, Serena, Cube, and Note will never be the same again.

Autech Rider Black Line Series

Official Site: http://www.autech.jp/CONNECT/AUTECH/BLACKLINE/index.html

Scoop: http://autoc-one.jp/news/869192/

The Autech Rider Black Line Series offers the dark side of the Autech Rider series such as a dark chrome front grille, dark chrome bumper grille, dark emblem, xenon headlamps, and sport mufflers. The Serena Rider Black Line, Cube Rider Black Line, and Note Rider Black Line will be available this October 19 while the Elgrand Rider Black Line will come this November.

Nissan Elgrand Rider High Performance Spec

Nissan Serena Rider Performance Spec

If that wasn't enough, Autech Japan unveiled the Nissan Elgrand Rider High Performance Spec and the Nissan Serena Rider Performance Spec. Available this October 19, the Serena Rider Performance Spec provides Body Tune, improved suspension, 17-inch rims, and Yokohama Advan Sport tires. The Elgrand Rider High Performance Spec will have a power output of 300PS and it will be available this November 2011.

Scoop: http://autoc-one.jp/news/869161/

Official Site: http://www.autech.jp/CONNECT/AUTECH/PS/index.html

20 years of Nissan Serena

Nissan Vanette Serena (1991-1994)

Nissan Vanette Serena

1st Generation Nissan Serena (C23, 1994-1999)

Nissan Serena C23

2nd Generation Nissan Serena (C24, 1999-2005)

Nissan Serena C24

3rd generation Nissan Serena (C25, 2005-2010)

Nissan Serena C25

4th generation Nissan Serena (C26, 2010-onwards)

Nissan Serena C26 Highway Star V Selection

For twenty years, the Nissan Serena became a favorite among Japanese families. Now, in celebration of the Nissan Serena's 20th anniversary, a special variant was released under the banner "Nissan Serena Highway Star V Selection". (日本名：日産セレナハイウェイスターVセレクション)

The special edition Serena offers one-touch auto sliding doors, full auto dual air conditioning, "Relax Mode" headrests on the second-row seats, and loads of extras!

It costs 2,653,350 Japanese Yen for the 2WD variant and 2,887,500 Japanese Yen for the 4WD variant. It's our way for saying thanks for supporting the Nissan Serena for two decades!

Scoop: http://carview.co.jp/news/0/152774/

Suzuki New Landy (SC26/SNC26)

2011 Suzuki Landy

2011 Suzuki Landy

Following the launch of the new Nissan Serena C26 since November 2010, it seems that others might think that Suzuki may not get the OEM version of the Serena that is the Landy, which was launched in 2007, the same year when the Nissan Serena C25 faced a minor change. However, Suzuki never forgot the memo that the new Landy will follow and it was based on the Nissan Serena C26.

Based on the Nissan Serena C26, the second-generation Suzuki Landy is now made even more economical and ecological, giving a status of a true eco car just like other Japanese eco-cars do thanks to the equipped MR20DD engine with idling stop system. The idling stop system allows the new Landy to automatically shut off the MR20DD engine while the car stops. This system provided a maximum fuel efficiency of 15.4km/L and it's approved for Japan's Eco-Car Genzei system, which gets a tax cut of 75% off.

My thoughts about the Landy:
Since the new Landy is now based on the Nissan Serena C26, every eco detail remains the same except the badging from Nissan to Suzuki because the Landy is the OEM of the Nissan Serena.

Both the new Landy and the new Serena toppled the Noah, Voxy, Stepwgn, and Stepwgn Spada in terms of fuel efficiency, but not enough against the Mazda Premacy.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

One Piece Serena collaboration puts the Ultraman-StepWGN team to shame...

Seen here is the Nissan Serena C26, debuted in November 8 and on sale in Japan this November 29, teamed up with One Piece, the world famous anime series highlights on a group of heroic pirates in search of the One Piece treasure. Everyone knows this popular anime right?

The biggest tie-up between the Nissan Serena C26 and One Piece really throw a curve on both anime fanatics and car enthusiasts alike.

What bothers me is this One Piece-Nissan Serena collaboration really puts the team-up between Ultraman and the Honda StepWGN to shame...

Back in October 2009, the month when the new Honda StepWGN released to the public, a commercial for this new model shows various Ultramen (oh, there's even Ultraman's baddies from the Spada commercial back then). That's how the collaboration between the car and the sentai hero begun.

We enjoyed watching the fourth-generation Honda StepWGN Japanese commercials starring Ultraman last year. What we will react if the special Nissan Serena C26 - One Piece Collaboration commercial airs this December?

Image source: Carview

New Premacy (CWEFW) vs. New Serena C26

The new third-generation Mazda Premacy (known as the Mazda 5):

and the all-new, fourth-generation, Nissan Serena C26

Both of these Japanese minivans are fuel-efficient, family-friendly, idling-stop powered, eco-minivans, but which eco-friendly minivan takes the center stage among Japanese families?

CASE ONE:

Launched in Japan since July 1, 2010, the new Mazda Premacy (Mazda 5) is powered with the fuel-efficient 2.0-litre LF-VDS engine packed with Mazda's innovative i-stop idling stop system. This engine packs a power output of 150PS and the outstanding fuel economy of 16.0km/L. Although I admit it that the Premacy is more fuel efficient than any other JDM minivans. I just really hope that Mazda Philippines gets one of these eco-friendly minivan. The design was borrowed from the Mazda Axela (Mazda 3), making it a nice minivan we wish to have.

CASE TWO:

Available this late November 2010, the new Nissan Serena C26 is the fourth of the Nissan Pure Drive range, a range consisting of eco-cars such as the new Nissan March K13, X-Trail Clean Diesel, and Fuga (Infiniti M) Hybrid. Under the hood, the new Serena C26 is powered with the new direct-injection MR20DD engine complete with Idling Stop system and Nissan's XTRONIC CVT. The fuel economy of the new Nissan Serena C26 is about 15.4km/L. Sadly, its fuel economy was not good enough to outperform the fuel economy of the new Premacy.

Rest assured. The Mazda Premacy stacks up against the Nissan Serena, but if style was an issue, the new Nissan Serena wins. Think of it minivan fanatics, no matter which of these are fuel efficient, you still want to decide by yourself. Both of these are a winner to me.

What is Nissan's Pure Drive range and how fuel-efficient are these "eco cars"?

When the fourth-generation Nissan March (built in Thailand) launched in Japan since July 2010, Nissan gave birth of the new range for eco-cars. This new range is called PURE DRIVE. Just what in the JDM world is Pure Drive?!

Pure Drive is Nissan's new range of fuel efficient cars, possessing qualities of a true eco car (a car that is fuel-efficient and eco-friendly) such as idling stop, clean diesel, and hybrid.

PURE DRIVE #1: Fourth-generation Nissan March K13

2011 Nissan March

The new, fourth-generation Nissan March (Micra in some markets), is destined to be a true eco-car in the JDM world, despite it was built from Thailand. The idling stop feature , new HR12DE engine, and XTRONIC CVT plays an important role to produce an outstanding fuel economy of 26.0km/L. For that, this is bound to be the first Pure Drive car equipped with idling stop. I can't wait for the new March to come to the Philippines as a competitor to the Suzuki Celerio.

PURE DRIVE #2: Nissan X-Trail Clean Diesel

2011 Nissan X-Trail 2.0GT

Much about the word Clean Diesel, the Nissan X-Trail Clean Diesel is equipped with the M9R engine that is turbocharged and diesel-fed but good for the environment. When the X-Trail Clean Diesel was launched in 2008, it offered in only one transmission, a 6-speed Manual, then in Summer 2010, Nissan added a 6-speed auto for the X-Trail Clean Diesel. The Nissan X-Trail 2.0GT Clean Diesel can go as much as 14.2 (6AT) to 15.2 (6MT). Hope that this will be a good addition to our lineup because this is diesel-fed and it can withstand the challenge led by diesel-fed SUVs

PURE DRIVE #3: Nissan Fuga Y51 Hybrid

2011 Nissan Fuga Hybrid

Nissan's first hybrid car that was now on sale in Japan and soon in other countries as the Infiniti M35 Hybrid. The Nissan Fuga Hybrid is equipped with the 3.5 V6 hybrid engine that has a fuel economy of 19.0km/L. Compare this fuel efficiency to the Toyota Crown Hybrid and the Nissan Fuga Hybrid wins. This is the true opulent eco car built for the environment-conscious and wealthy people.

PURE DRIVE # 4: New Nissan Serena C26

2011 Nissan Serena

Most JDM minivans are going to be upset because the new Serena C26 is equipped with the new MR20DD direct-injection engine combined with idling stop (found in the March K13) and XTRONIC CVT, providing an opulent fuel efficiency of 15.4km/L! Good enough to outperform the likes of the Noah, Voxy, StepWGN, or even the StepWGN Spada, unfortunately the new Premacy outperforms the new Nissan Serena C26 in the performance side. A very good eco van we wish to have it to the Philippines because this is even greater than the Yulon-built C24 Serena we had.

These are the cars of the Nissan Pure Drive range. In the future, Nissan will release more eco cars straight from the Pure Drive range and who knows eco cars are over the future.

More info (Japanese only):

http://www.nissan.co.jp/PUREDRIVE