2026 Nissan Serena e-Energy previewed in Malaysia – 1.4L self-charging hybrid; CKD; C28 launch in Q1 2026

It has been a protracted, lengthy wait, however the sixth-generation Nissan Serena will quickly be launched in Malaysia. First revealed to the world in November 2022the C28 MPV was beforehand sighted on our native roads present process testing in March 2023 and extra lately in November this yr. Immediately, we’re getting an official preview of the new-to-us Serena, which replaces the C27 mannequin that has been bought right here since 2018 – a facelift was launched round mid-2022.

Earlier than we proceed, there are a number of home guidelines that we have to point out. Firstly, Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM), the unique distributor of Nissan automobiles in Malaysia, is opting to disseminate details about the C28 Serena in phases, with the primary specializing in simply the automobile’s exterior design and powertrain. Additional info pertaining to the inside and tools record are at present embargoed and can be revealed within the close to future.

Subsequent, the automobiles you see in these pictures are manufacturing trial models that got here off the road at Tan Chong Motor Holdings’ (TCMH) Serendah plant in Selangor. The ability, which assembles the present C27 Serena for the native market and for export to Thailand (it is usually concerned in manufacturing of the Perodua QV-E), will swap to the C28 Serena.

That is noteworthy as a result of the brand new Serena can be supplied with Nissan’s e-Energy hybrid system (extra on this later). The Kicks launched earlier additionally has an e-Energy setup but it surely comes absolutely imported (CBU) from Thailand, whereas the C28 Serena would be the first e-Energy mannequin to be assembled in Malaysia.

As for when it’ll go on sale, ETCM says it’s trying to launch the C28 Serena e-Energy between February and March subsequent yr. We’ll solely get estimated pricing nearer to the launch date however for context, the facelifted C27 Serena is at present obtainable in Freeway Star and Premium Freeway Star Package deal trims priced at RM149,888 and RM163,888 respectively.

With all that out of the best way, let’s get all the way down to the most important change with the brand new Serena: its powertrain. The e-Energy system encompasses a HR14DDe 1.4 litre naturally-aspirated inline-three petrol engine making 98 PS and 123 Nm torque, which acts completely as a generator for a 1.77-kWh lithium-ion battery positioned below the ground between the entrance seats.

The battery powers an electrical motor rated at 163 PS (161 hp or 120 kW) and 315 Nm of torque that drives the entrance wheels completely. There isn’t any mechanical hyperlink between the engine and wheels, so there’s no want for a transmission.

By comparability, the outgoing C27 Serena’s MR20DD 2.0 litre NA inline-four petrol engine serves up 150 PS (148 hp or 110 kW) and 200 Nm of torque to the entrance wheels through an X-Tronic CVT. Augmenting the engine is the S-Hybrid system, which is a light hybrid setup that includes an electrical motor rated at simply 2.6 PS (2.6 hp or 1.9 kW) and 48 Nm that acts because the starter and alternator, whereas additionally dealing with the idle cease system, recuperation and offering slightly drive help.

With the e-Energy system, you get the good thing about an electrical automobile (EV) driving expertise (instantaneous torque supply for higher acceleration) with out worrying about charging or vary as a result of the petrol engine is at all times there to cost the battery as long as there’s petrol within the 52-litre gasoline tank. Those that are allergic to the “rubber band really feel” of a CVT can even be happy.

In case you’re questioning, the e-Energy system was obtainable with the earlier C27 Serena, though we by no means bought that configuration in Malaysia. For the C28, the system was improved with higher outputs for each the engine and electrical motor. Within the Kicks, the system consists of a 2.06-kWh battery, an electrical motor rated at 129 PS (127 hp or 95 kW) and 280 Nm in addition to a HR12DE 1.2 litre inline-three petrol engine with 82 PS (81 hp or 60 kW) and 103 Nm.

Design-wise, the C28 Serena seems as an evolution from its predecessor, with notable design cues being a extra trendy tackle the model’s signature V-motion grille, which sports activities an array of vertical slats in black or chrome that neatly integrates the “three-eye” LED projector headlamps. Different components of the overhauled face embrace small LED fog lamps flanking the decrease consumption, whereas the aspect air inlets, which had been beforehand ornamental, now even have a objective as air curtains.

On the rear are boomerang-shaped taillights which can be slimmer than on the outgoing mannequin, whereas the tailgate has been simplified in order that the Nissan emblem and ‘Serena’ script are nearer collectively. The quantity plate recess can also be smaller, and there’s a rear LED fog lamp is positioned on the precise beneath the taillight cluster, with the alternative being a typical reflector.

Seen from the aspect, you’ll discover the Serena’s profile appears largely acquainted, with the kinked beltline making a return. What doesn’t make a return is the distinguished character line that begins from the headlamps and dips down to satisfy with the rails for the sliding doorways – this has been modified to a straight line originating from the ends of the entrance bumper. The wheels fitted are 16 inches in dimension with 205/65 profile tyres.

No official dimensions had been disclosed, however the C28 Serena already on sale in Indonesia is listed as being 4,765 mm lengthy, 1,715 mm large, 1,885 mm tall and has a wheelbase of two,870 mm. For context, the outgoing mannequin is 4,790 mm lengthy (probably because of its protruding face), 1,740 mm large, 1,865 mm tall and its wheelbase spans 2,860 mm. So, not a lot of a distinction by way of wheelbase.

As said earlier, we are able to’t discuss concerning the inside for now, however you most likely already know the way it appears like should you learn our preliminary report on the C28 Serena when it made its world debut or our protection of the MPV at numerous motor exhibits.

Given what from this submit and from your personal analysis, what do you consider the brand new Serena? Are you trying ahead to its launch?

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