For the first 500 early bird deliveries, the first of which are expected to happen in May 2018, there will be a special gift worth RM500. In addition, test drives of the All-New Serena S-Hybrid will be available from today at selected outlets; details can be found at www.nissan.com.my, or by calling ETCM’s Customer Hotline 1800-88-3838.
The Premium highway Star now comes with two-tone colour, combination leather seats, with two colour choices, 10.1 inch roof-mounted LCD panel, Tech-on Tray Mat, Driving Video Recorder (DVR) and LED room lamp. In addition, it also comes with 16-inch alloy wheels instead of the standard 15-inch wheels, Door Visors, V-Kool 4 mil Security Film Tinting, and Three Bond Ultra Glass Body Coating.
The 2.0 litre S-hybrid Engine – the red plastics are the two positive terminals for the two batteries
The all-new Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is powered by the S-Hybrid 2.0 litre MR20DD engine, basically a carry-over from the outgoing model. The S-Hybrid system is unique, with a generator cum motor that charges an additional car battery located next to the normal battery of the vehicle in the engine compartment. As the engine runs, the generator which is connected by a belt to the main pulley charges both batteries, and the generator becomes a motor and uses power from the charged battery to provide an additional boost of 2.6 PS and 48 Nm to the drive train. The base power without the S-Hybrid system is 150 PS at 6,000 rpm, and maximum torque at 4,400 rpm. Technically, it can work, as the small power increase plus the 48Nm of torque will help to boost the power a little, and technically it will help to save a bit of fuel, especially in stop-start traffic conditions, but I wouldn’t call this a true-blue hybrid system.
The Generator cum S-hybrid drive motor
What this system does do, however, is that it helps the automaker to get EEV status, which in turn provides some relief in import duties, which helps to keep the retail price reasonable and affordable.
Drive is to the front wheels only, through a Nissan Xtronic CVT, which also contributes to fuel efficiency besides providing a smooth transmission. Fuel consumption (based on NEDC R101) is 14.2 kilometers per litre.
The design engineers have really worked hard on the features for the new Nissan Serena S-Hybrid, adding in customer-oriented features that would endear its users.
The most impressive would be the Hands-Free Dual sliding doors for the second row passengers – all the driver has to do is to put his or her foot under the door panel to activate the hands-free opening or closing of the door. Of course the key fob must be in close proximity; otherwise the door will not open. Another convenience feature is that there is a button for the third row passenger to open the sliding door as well. A Push Button start is standard. Generally, the new Serena is wider inside, and is also longer inside by 180mm.
Tailgate opens in two sections
Inside, the first and second row seats are ‘Zero Gravity’ seats, supposedly very comfortable, and the second row is pampered with ‘Captain’ seats with dual armrests. The third row seats now have a sliding function, and all the seats can fold back to provide an almost flat play area behind the front seats.
Another interesting, convenient and thoughtful feature is the double rear door, which allows the top part to be opened; this feature first appeared in the 1980’s in the Nissan Terrano.
Safety features include six SRS airbags, Vehicle Dynamic Control, Hill Start Assist (which most drivers will love), and Traction Control System. The Serena scores five stars under the JNCAP rating.
All things said and done, the Nissan Serena S-Hybrid presents a great package in terms of price and size, with many great features. We had a slow drive around the block, and at city speeds, it is an ‘easy-to-drive’ vehicle, very quiet on the inside, and easy to maneuver. Internal seat and space configuration options are countless, and I can almost guarantee that kids will love it.
Gallery:
Walk-through cabin, with gear lever on dashboard.
Driver’s cockpit with flat-bottomed steering.
Second row passengers get a tray table with drink holders.
Rear seats fold to provide a flat play area.
Keyword: Preview: All-New Nissan Serena 2.0 S-Hybrid Comes with Useful New Features