25/01/2026

Contributing Editor Keshy Dhillon / keshy@piston.my Editorial

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SUNDAY | JAN 25, 2026

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BY TIMOTHY PRAKASH

THE Nissan Serena has long been a familiar and trusted sight on Malaysian roads. For decades, it has carved out a loyal following among families seeking a spa cious, practical and fuss-free peo ple mover that prioritises comfort and usability above all else. Now in its sixth generation, the new Nissan Serena C28 arrives at a pivotal moment for the MPV segment, as buyers increasingly demand greater refinement, bet ter efficiency and modern technol ogy without sacrificing everyday practicality. With the introduction of Nissan’s second-generation e Power hybrid system, the Serena C28 represents the most signifi cant step forward in the model’s history. This is not merely a cos metic refresh or incremental update. Instead, Nissan has re-engi neered the Serena to deliver an experience that blends EV-like smoothness with the convenience of a conventional petrol vehicle, while addressing long-standing MPV pain points such as noise, ride comfort and passenger motion sickness. At first glance, the Serena C28 remains instantly recognisable. Nissan has wisely retained the boxy MPV silhouette that has defined the Serena since its early generations, ensuring excellent interior space and upright seating for all three rows. However, closer inspection reveals a noticeably more modern and polished design. The front end is dominated by Nissan’s latest V-Motion grille, now wider and integrated seam lessly with slim LED headlamps. Horizontal slats stretch across the fascia, creating a cohesive and more premium appearance. Vertical air inserts on either side of the front bumper are not merely decorative; Nissan claims they help smooth airflow and reduce body movement, contrib uting to improved passenger com fort. From the side, the Serena’s tall glasshouse and stepped window line remain intact, preserving excellent outward visibility. Slimmer pillars and a lower win dow sill ensure that even third row passengers are not left feeling claustrophobic. New 16-inch two tone alloy wheels add a touch of visual flair without compromising ride comfort. At the rear, the redesign is sub tle but effective. Vertical LED tail lights with boomerang-shaped light signatures frame the tailgate, while a clean bumper design and FAMILIAR SHAPE, SHARPENED WITH MODERN DESIGN

Split tailgate.

Refined family MPV Nissan Serena e-Power sets new benchmark for mainstream MPVs

Black Nappa combinatio n leather upholstery.

1.4-litre three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine.

The dashboard adopts a cleaner, more horizontal layout, anchored by dual 12.3-inch dis plays, one for the digital instru ment cluster and another for info tainment. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, eliminating cable clutter. The button-style electronic gear selector frees up centre con sole space, while a dedicated cli mate control panel ensures essen tial functions remain easy to access while driving. Materials are noticeably improved, with black Nappa com bination leather upholstery lend ing a more upmarket feel. True to its MPV roots, the Serena excels in flexibility. The three-row cabin offers up to 13 seating configurations, allowing owners to prioritise passenger space, cargo capacity or a balance of both. A walk-through layout between the front seats improves accessi bility, while the second row fea tures captain’s chairs that can slide and recline independently. Rear passengers are well catered for, with a 14-inch fold

discreet e-Power badging rein force the Serena’s new electrified identity. The split tailgate opening, a Serena hallmark, remains, adding everyday convenience when load ing cargo in tight spaces. DIMENSIONS THAT PRIORITISE USABILITY Dimensionally, the MPV meas ures 4,765mm long, 1,715mm wide and 1,870mm tall, riding on a 2,870mm wheelbase. Compared to the outgoing C27, it is slightly taller, a change that benefits head room and ease of entry without compromising cabin space. In real-world terms, the Serena still feels compact enough to manoeuvre in urban environ ments while offering the interior volume expected of a full-fledged family MPV. CABIN BUILT AROUND COMFORT AND FLEXIBILITY Step inside, and it becomes immediately clear that Nissan has invested heavily in improving per ceived quality and technology.

13 seating configurations.

down entertainment screen, indi vidual air-conditioning vents for each row, fold-out tray tables with cup holders, and USB charging ports throughout the cabin. Hands-free dual power sliding doors further enhance everyday convenience, especially when jug gling children or groceries. While the absence of powered front seats or a powered tailgate may surprise some buyers at this price point, the Serena counters with thoughtful, family-oriented touches that matter more in

daily use. E-POWER: ELECTRIFIED DRIVING WITHOUT THE HASSLE The headline feature of the Serena C28 is its second-genera tion e-Power hybrid system. Unlike conventional hybrids, the Serena is driven exclusively by an electric motor, delivering instant torque and seamless accel eration similar to a battery electric vehicle. The difference is that there is no need to plug in.