Malaysia Finally Gets a Proper Hybrid Serena, Nissan ePower MPV Estimated under RM180k

The sixth-generation Nissan Serena is gearing up for its Malaysian debut in March 2026, bringing Nissan’s ePower electrified drivetrain to the popular MPV lineup. It arrives with a trophy cabinet, having already claimed the 2025 Thailand Car of the Year (Best Value Mid-Sized MPV), the Good Design Award 2023, and the prestigious RJC Technology of the Year in Japan.

However, with an estimated price tag between RM160,000 and RM180,000, the new Serena is entering a premium price bracket that demands scrutiny. Does the spec sheet justify the price hike?

Before jumping in, it’s worth mentioning that typically, the Nissan Serena is offered in two variants. However, for now, there seems to be only one variant that Edaran Tan Chong Motors (ETCM) is showcasing, which is the top spec Highway Star. We’ll need to wait and see if a cheaper variant will be introduced during the launch.

No More “Fake” Hybrid

It is time to address the elephant in the room. For years, Nissan insisted on calling the Serena a “hybrid,” a term that was generous at best. The previous “S-Hybrid” system in the C26 Serena S-Hybrid and C27 Serena S-Hybrid was essentially a mild-hybrid setup where a tiny electric motor provided a meagre 50 Nm of torque assist for barely a second when taking off.

It was effectively a glorified starter motor that couldn’t drive the car on its own for even a meter.

The new second-generation ePower system is an entirely different drivetrain. Marking the second application of this technology in Malaysia after the Nissan Kicks ePower, it ditches the “assist” concept for a 100% electric motor drive, delivering 163 PS (120 kW) and a massive 315 Nm of instant torque, available all the time. You can toggle between Standard, Sport, and Eco modes to suit your mood.

The internal combustion engine, a specific 1.4L (1,435cc), DOHC in-line 3-cylinder (HR14DDe), never drives the wheels directly. It acts solely as a generator to charge the 1.769 kWh Lithium-ion battery. This setup features Nissan’s “Mirror Bore Coating” technology to reduce friction, delivering a rated efficiency of 18.5 km/L (NEDC) and a claimed range of up to 1,000 km.

Hence, there’s no traditional transmission, just like an EV. Instead, there’s a single speed reduction gear.

Ride and Handling

Nissan highlights a “newly designed front suspension” using MacPherson Struts to reduce body roll, paired with a high-rigidity Rack and Pinion Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. Externally, the bodywork is aerodynamically optimised with air curtains on the bumper to further cut through the wind and reduce sway.

However, the rear suspension remains a Torsion Beam setup. In a vehicle approaching RM180,000, enthusiasts might expect a sophisticated multi-link rear setup.

Thankfully, stopping power is no longer a compromise as the Serena ePower finally sports Ventilated Disc Brakes on both the Front and Rear, retiring the old drums. It rides on 16-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 205/65R16 tyres.

Specs and Features

The Nissan Serena ePower comes with a sharper exterior styling, featuring 3-eye LED Projector Headlights with Auto Levelling and LED Signature lights up front, and distinctive boomerang-shaped LED taillamps at the rear.

Inside, you are greeted by what Nissan calls a “Digital Age Dashboard” featuring dual 12.3-inch displays, one for the driver, one for infotainment, which comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.

The climate controls have been modernised to a touch-panel. Although it’s not as convenient as physical buttons, it’s better than having it integrated in a menu in the infotainment system. Hey, you still get dials.  

Entertainment is handled by a 14-inch roof-mounted monitor. There’s a total of 6 USB ports, consisting of type A and C, and a wireless charging pad.

The cabin aims for “Business Class” status with Zero Gravity Seats (now for the driver, passenger, and second row) to minimise fatigue. On the top spec Highway Star variant, the seats are upholstered in a combination of Black Nappa Leather.

The 7-seater configuration offers 13 flexible seating modes and 22 storage compartments, ensuring there’s space for both passengers and luggage. The second row features exclusive Captain Seats with armrests, fold-out tray tables, and a Long Slide function for maximum legroom.

Noise levels are managed with additional sound insulation in the floor, doors, and dashboard, plus an acoustic windscreen to cut down wind and road noise.

Convenience features are plentiful with Walk Away Lock and Approach Unlock, and Speed Sensing Auto Door Locks. Returning are the Hands-free power sliding doors and the signature Dual Back Door or split tailgate.

Safety

Safety is a priority, with the Serena ePower offering a comprehensive suite of features. Beyond six airbags and a 360-degree Around View Monitor, the MPV comes equipped with ProPilot Assist, which combines Intelligent Cruise Control, Lane Intervention, and Blind Spot Intervention to reduce driver fatigue on highways.

Additional active safety systems include Intelligent Emergency Braking, Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, High Beam Assist, and Driver Alertness Monitoring.

Chassis control systems such as Vehicle Dynamic Control, Traction Control, and ABS with EBD and BA, alongside an Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold, round out the safety package.

But whether the base variant will be comparably equipped remains to be seen.

Colours

Colour options include two-tone finishes consisting of Turquoise Blue/Black, Brilliant White/Black, Dark Metal Grey/Black and a single-tone Diamond Black.

Warranty

Ownership is backed by a 5-year/100,000 km vehicle warranty and an 8-year/160,000 km warranty for EV components.

Test Drive

ETCM will be organising a test drive event at selected showrooms:

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