By Steve Laser
Since the launch of the original Serena minivan in 1991, Nissan has sold more than 2 million units. Serena entered its sixth generation last year in Japan with the redesigned lineup of X, XV and Highway Star V models, initially offering a 2.0-liter gas engine. Updated e-POWER technology is now available on all trims, including a new flagship called Luxion.
The Luxion has a sleek and dynamic look, with a large Nissan V-Motion grille flanked by horizontal chrome bars and “hidden” LED projector lights. Air curtains are also located in the lower front bumper to help manage airflow.
A highly functional and easy to use split tailgate design is another bonus. The upper portion (above the license plate) can be opened independently, allowing access to cargo in tight parking spaces. While the full tailgate can swing up in a conventional manner when needed.
At the side is a signature design element, called the “spur line,” that runs like a wave along the beltline of the vehicle. The redesigned Serena provides larger glass area up front, for improved outward visibility. (Highway Star V shown above)
Serena features second-generation e-POWER, with a newly developed 1.4-liter, DOHC 3-cylinder gas engine. The engine generates electricity to charge the lithium-ion battery, while an electric motor alone powers the vehicle. Since it’s a self-charging system, there is no need to plug it in.
Nissan’s e-POWER was first introduced on the Note in 2016, followed by the Serena in 2018. The electrified powertrain technology has been offered on a wider array of models in Japan, Europe, and other markets. Cumulative sales of e-POWER vehicles topped 500,000 units in 2021.
The new Serena’s interior provides plenty of space to relax and enjoy the ride. Luxion features seven-passenger seating, with second-row sliding and reclining captain’s style seats. Other models offer a multi-purpose center seat for the second row that increases seating capacity to eight.
Standard Luxion high-tech features include an advanced 12.3-inch drive assist display, a separate 12.3-inch infotainment display, plus a head-up display on the windshield. Nissan’s ProPILOT 2.0 advanced driver assistance system, ProPILOT Park with memory, and ProPILOT Remote Park are also included.
A new space-saving touch-panel includes independent air conditioning controls for the driver’s seat, passenger’s seat and rear seats. And for added convenience, this panel also features a new switch-type electric drive shifter with P, R, N and D drive selections.
The NissanConnect navigation system on Luxion has hands-free phone, VICS (Vehicle Information and Communication System), voice assistant, Bluetooth®, USB connection, HDMI connection, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and Amazon Alexa. Plus, there’s a built-in ETC2.0 unit with front and rear drive recorders.
Serena e-POWER AUTECH
While AUTECH offers a variety of parts and accessories to customize and personalize Nissan vehicles, customers can also select a completely finished vehicle. The Serena AUTECH is available in both gas and e-POWER versions (both are based on the Highway Star V trim).
On the outside, exclusive features include an AUTECH front grille, aero bumper, side sill protector and spoiler, rear protector and aero bumper, power retractable mirrors with turn signals, AUTECH emblems, and special wheels.
Serena e-POWER AUTECH is a seven-passenger model featuring second-row captain’s seats. Upholstery is an exclusive black leatherette with blue AUTECH stitching. There’s dark wood finishers throughout the interior, while the door trim also has blue stitching.
The driver is treated to a special, black leather-wrapped steering wheel with blue stitching. Individual accessories, available as dealer-installed options, include blue carpet floor mats and cargo area mat with the AUTECH logo, side window door visors, piano black side pillar garnish with AUTECH logo, and wheel center cap AUTECH emblems.
News source and photos courtesy of Nissan Motor Corp., and Nissan Motorsports & Customizing Co., Ltd. Features and specifications apply to Japanese market models and are subject to change without notice.
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