Some of us sniggered when the name ‘Highway Star’ was first announced by ETCM for its high-line Serena MPV some years ago, of course this was only done by the more senior motoring media, and anyone who knew music in the 70’s would remember that iconic song by Deep Purple. Yes, I’m old. And just in case you’d like to know what it sounded like, I’ve linked the actual song at the end of this article; sorry, it just had to be done…

So anyway, a new Highway Star arrived today in the form of the new Nissan Serena, available in S-Hybrid 2.0 Highway Star and S-Hybrid 2.0 Premium Highway Star, priced at RM135,500 and RM147,500 respectively. Both are powered by the same 2,0-litre engine mated to a XTRONIC-CVT (continuously variable transmission), that churns out 150Ps and 200Nm of torque.

The addition of what Nissan dubs a ECO Motor with Electric Power Re-generator, secondary battery and torque assist allows for much better acceleration from a standstill, and no, the Serena is not able to run on electric power alone. Think of the system as an additional power-pack for the MPV that boosts its power and aids fuel-efficiency by assisting the internal-combustion engine; something like a power-bank for your Smartphone.

At the media launch event, Sales and Marketing Director of ETCM, Mr. Christopher Tan (above) said: “In 2013, ETCM was the first to introduce a hybrid MPV to Malaysia. Today, Malaysia is the first country outside Japan to locally-assemble the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid. This is to support the local popularity of the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid; and to-date, we have already collected 1,300 bookings.”

Also present at the launch was Mr Vincent Wijnen (above), Vice President, Marketing and Sales, Asia and Oceania, Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co., Ltd. “In many ways, the Nissan Serena is a strong symbol of Nissan itself. Serena, not surprisingly then, has consistently been one of the most popular passenger cars. In fact, this calendar year, it’s number-one in its class in Japan, with more than 33,000 units sold so far.”, he said.

More details on the new Nissan Serena S-Hybrid…

The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid adopts Nissan’s new generation global design language that creates a more dynamic and sporty styling. The core features are the new V-Motion Strut Grille, Dual Layer LED Projector Headlamp and LED Signature Lamp, Floating Roof design that highlights the spacious cabin, and LED Tail Lamps that are now fashioned with a distinctive S-Shaped design.

Nissan Intelligent Mobility (NIM) features have been added to provide a more exciting, confident and connected drive. The key highlights include:

• S-Hybrid system with upgraded ECO motor that controls the Idling Stop system, and provides additional torque assist in start-up acceleration. It also acts as an alternator to facilitate energy recuperation during deceleration and braking;
• First in its class Intelligent Around View Monitor (I-AVM), uses 4 cameras that provide a 360° bird’s-eye view of the vehicle for easier navigation;
• Intelligent Moving Object Detection (I-MOD), detects and alerts the driver of moving objects surrounding the vehicle;
• Intelligent Driver Alertness (I-DA), helps alert potential driver fatigue (drowsy driving) and inattention;
• Smartphone connectivity with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, so that the driver is able to stay focus on the road and still being able to get turn-by-turn navigation directions, receive and make calls, listen and reply to messages, and play music using voice commands.

The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is powered by a 2.0L (MR20DD) Twin CVTC (Continuously Variable-valve Timing Control) engine, paired with XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC); maximum power output is now at 150PS / 6,000rpm with a torque of 200Nm / 4,400rpm. Adoption of the new Dual Arm Tensioner (DAT) to maintain optimal tensile force on the belt to reduce friction, reduce power lost and increase fuel efficiency.

Improvements to the engine have resulted in a 2.8% improvement in power-to-weight ratio and the best-in-class fuel economy of 14.2 km/L (NEDC R101) which is a 13% fuel economy improvement over its predecessor earning the All-New Serena S-Hybrid the Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) status.

On top of the powertrain improvement, the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid also enhances the ease of driving and handling. The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid adopts a sound-absorbing liner in the wheelhouse to improve cabin quietness. Increasing the steering rack gear ratio for quicker turning through reduced steering-wheel lock-to-lock turns. The variable assist electric power steering gives a lighter steering feel at low speed (when parking) and a firm feel at higher speeds for improved stability. Stiffer front and rear suspension mounting as well as the addition of high performance valve in the shock absorbers deliver a more stable and comfortable ride.

The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid also offers new technologies that are first in its class in providing thoughtful conveniences. Beginning with Hands-Free Dual Power Sliding Door which operates by a simple quick kick below the door to open or close when your hands are full, Dual Back Door that can be opened easily even in tight parking spaces, Capless Fuel Filler which makes refuelling more convenient, and 7 USB-Powered Ports for each passenger’s electronic device charging needs.

The modern and premium interior of the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is a delight to the driver and passengers. The Soft Padded Instrumental Panel featuring Nissan’s gliding-wing design delivers a sense of panoramic openness, while the full colour 7-inch Advance Drive Assist Display (ADAD) provides vehicle and driving information. A Flat Bottom Leather Steering Wheel with Cruise Control, asymmetrical centre cluster housing the premium 6.75-inch Clarion Advanced Touchscreen Display Audio, Push Start Ignition with the Intelligent Key for keyless operation and a Dual-Zone Auto Climate Control System with rear digital control panel as well as air conditioning ducts for all 3 rows, complete a technologically advance interior.

The interior space of the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is the largest and most flexible in its class. The 7-seater MPV now comes with extended interior length by 180mm, additional 20mm and 65mm for its height and width respectively, offering more space between all rows of seats thus improving the ride comfort for all passengers. First in its class Zero Gravity Inspired Seats provide spinal support to reduce passenger fatigue during long drives is now available for 1^st and 2^nd row seats.

The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid now comes with 2^nd row Captain Seats with dual armrest, and a personal table offering the luxury of individual seating. With this new seating layout, occupants gain a comfortable walkthrough access from the 1^st to the 3^rd row. This spacious 7-seater MPV follows it predecessors with a variety of seating and cargo combinations, offering 13 different seating configurations to fulfil all needs and requirements.

Traditionally, 3^rd row passenger find it the most inconvenient to exit the vehicle. The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid solves this by re-designing the C-pillar rearward by 50mm, to make a wider sliding door opening and with the addition of a Power Sliding Door Switch (left sliding door only) in the 3^rd row, as well as a new step-release that enables 2^nd row seats to slide forward with ease, passengers can exit the 3^rd row comfortably and conveniently.

6 SRS Airbags is now standard in the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid, and other safety features include Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Hill Start Assist (HSA), and ISOFIX Child Seat Restraint system for 2^nd row seats.

“Besides being one of the best looking MPVs in Malaysia, the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is equipped with many new intelligent technologies and smart features that will bring abundance of joy and happiness to many families. The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is simply magical,” added Mr Christopher Tan.

The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid Highway Star comes with a fresh new colour, Cashmere Gold alongside its three current colours; Diamond Black, Brilliant White and Tungsten Silver. While the Premium Highway Star offers a Two-Tone exterior colour design with Brilliant White (Body) and Diamond Black (Roof), Tungsten Silver (Body) and Diamond Black (Roof), and Cashmere Gold (Body) and Imperial Umber (Roof).

Additionally, the Premium Highway Star offers more sophistication with Combination Leather Seats with a colour choice of Two-Tone Truffle Brown and Chestnut or Single-tone Black, 10.1-inch Roof-Mounted LCD Panel, Tech-on Tray Mat (for the personal table), Driving Video Recorder (DVR), LED Room Lamp, V-KOOL 4Mil Security Film Tinting, 16-inch Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels, and Door Visors.

The All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is priced at RM147,500 for the Premium Highway Star and RM135,500 for the Highway Star (OTR price without insurance for Peninsular Malaysia), with a 5-year Unlimited Mileage Warranty.

A 3-year/60,000km (whichever comes first) Maintenance Service promotion is offered as part of the launch campaign. Additionally, the first 500 registered vehicles will also receive a free Terzo Portable Cooler Box by PIAA (worth RM 500).

*OTR Price inclusive GST, without Insurance

For more information, visit www.nissan.com.my or call the Nissan Customer Care Centre Hotline at 1800 88 3838.

Nissan Serena S-Hybrid Photo Gallery…

This damn song has been stuck in my head all day, so be warned, major earworm ahead! – Chris Wee.