Looking for a family car for your growing family? If you’re in the market for a COE Category Cat B vehicle, your choices are limited to models like the Toyota Noah/Voxy/Esquire, Honda Stepwagon Spada, and the Nissan Serena e-POWER. While most of these are sold by Parallel Importers, the Nissan Serena e-POWER is available through the authorized dealer Tan Chong Motor.
The choices for Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs) in Singapore have evolved significantly over the past decade. Around 10-15 years ago, the most popular MPVs in Singapore were the Toyota Wish, Honda Stream, and Nissan Presage.
Although the Nissan Serena has been in production since 1991, it only gained noticeable popularity on Singaporean roads with the launch of the Nissan Serena e-POWER Gen 1 in 2019. Previously, large cars were not favored due to their high petrol consumption. However, the preference for MPVs has shifted towards models with sliding doors, spacious interiors, and, crucially, better fuel efficiency—attributes made possible by e-POWER technology.
For a more in-depth review, check out our video review of the Nissan Serena e-POWER.
Exterior
As a MPV with a high roof, making the design aesthetically pleasing is a challenge due to the van-like tall structure. However, Nissan has managed to make the new Serena e-POWER look more modern with its redesigned signature V-motion Grille.
Hands-free Auto Sliding Doors
Simply place your foot under the car sliding door to open or close the sliding doors when your hands are full—a super convenient feature.
Dual Tailgate Opening
One standout feature of the Nissan Serena is its Dual Tailgate Opening, which allows you to access the boot with ease—especially useful in tight spaces.
Interior
The interior of the Nissan Serena e-POWER is spacious and modern. The dual-panel dashboard provides the driver with all the necessary information for a seamless drive.
With excellent legroom, the second and third rows can be configured to offer various seating arrangements or extra luggage space.
The second and third-row seats can be easily adjusted with a one-touch lever for quick exits, and integrated sunshades can be extended for comfort and privacy. Each row comes with personal trays and cupholders, enhancing the comfort for all passengers.
Intelligent Rear View Mirror
The Intelligent Rear View Mirror offers the option of a digital view, ensuring a clear and unobstructed view of what’s behind, even with a full load of passengers or cargo.
Drive
The 2024 Nissan Serena e-POWER is powered by the 2nd generation e-POWER technology, which is more refined and smooth, without the need for any plug-in charging. The drive is responsive and smooth, providing an experience similar to driving an EV. With 120kW of power and 315Nm of instant torque, acceleration is quiet and seamless.
There are three drive modes:
- Eco: Requires more pressure on the accelerator, ensuring efficient driving.
- Standard: The default mode with responsive acceleration, ideal for everyday driving.
- Sports: Provides more power, activating the generator for a more dynamic drive, with some engine noise.
Nissan’s unique e-Pedal step uses regenerative braking technology, allowing you to accelerate and decelerate with just one pedal. The only downside noted was the brakes being a little too soft.
Nissan Intelligent Mobility
The Nissan Serena e-POWER is equipped with a suite of safety features, including:
- Intelligent Emergency Braking and Forward Collision Warning
- Lane Departure Warning with Lane Departure Prevention
- Intelligent Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection
- Hill Start Assist
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Intelligent Driver Alertness
- Blind Spot Warning with Blind Spot Intervention
- Intelligent Cruise Control
Conclusion
Having driven the previous generation Toyota Noah and Toyota Alphard, the Serena e-POWER stands out. The Toyota Noah felt sluggish, and its hybrid engine was noisy. The Toyota Alphard offers great comfort but feels massive, making parking challenging.
In contrast, the Nissan Serena e-POWER offers a refined, responsive drive that feels similar to a sedan, with seamless parking and a quiet engine. This makes it a top choice for families seeking a modern, efficient, and comfortable MPV.
