Check out Nissan Serena facelift, features better design & safety kit

KUALA LUMPUR: Nissan introduced the Serena in this part of the world only in May; however, Japan is getting a facelift version already. Nissan Japan is currently showing the revised Serena on its website - in two variants, each with specific design changes.

Staring with the standard Nissan Serena version, it enjoys subtle design revisions in the form of V-Motion grille that gets 3D appearing mesh design and slim horizontal bars. The chrome outlining now merge seamlessly with the new headlamps making the split setup appear conjoined. The V-Motion chin has been raised, thus giving the bumper a slightly neater look. This particular trim misses out on the rectangular fog lamps, hinting towards its base profile.

Let’s now address the elephant in the room, shall we? Well, the first thing to grab attention in the Serena images is the big seven-row and seven-column, chrome chip grille that features on the Highway Star trim (as seen in the images). We are expecting it to be an e-Power trim, and it is for the first time we see the V-Motion grille given such a dynamic look.

The headlights on the variant feature new graphics and combine reflector and projector units. Also, we see more usage of chrome that undoubtedly underscores the car’s illumination components. The fog lamps are present and are highlighted by L-shaped gloss black surrounds. Other exterior revisions include a new rear bumper, new wheels, and revised taillights.

The interior, however, remains untouched. The Serena Highway Star comes with auto brake-hold assist, a unique electronic gear shifter, blue push-start button, and an electromechanical parking brake.

Nissan Japan website also lists the interior color options on offer. The models with fabric upholstery are available in full beige, grey & black, and black. The range-topping variant, on the other hand, features premium black leather upholstery with a quilted pattern.

The Serena facelift is powered by a MR20DD 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol mill churning 150 PS at 6,000 rpm along with a peak torque of 200 Nm at 4,400 rpm, and it is coupled to an Xtronic CVT unit. Another powerplant option is the HR12DE three-cylinder petrol engine.

On the safety front, the new Serena gets emergency brake for pedal misoperation, adaptive cruise control with intelligent emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive LED headlights.

The Nissan MPV now comes with two new color tones - Dark Metal Grey and Sunrise Orange; both offered with a two-tone finish. Other exterior color tones are Brilliant White Pearl, Cashmere, Diamond Black, Maroon Red, Azurite Blue, Imperial Amber, and Brilliant Silver.