Introduction to the Nissan Serena (C27)
The Nissan Serena (C27) represents the fifth generation of Nissan’s highly successful minivan, a staple in the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) and various other Asian regions. Launched in 2016 and produced through 2019 for this specific iteration, the Serena (C27) continued the model’s legacy of offering exceptional passenger comfort, versatile interior space, and a strong emphasis on family-friendly features. This particular variant, the Highway Star 2.0 (150 Hp) S-Hybrid CVT, was a popular choice, blending a stylish aesthetic with practical efficiency. As a vehicle primarily designed for markets outside North America, the Serena (C27) showcases Nissan’s approach to compact yet spacious people movers, adapting to tighter urban environments while still delivering on the demands of modern families for comfort and technology. Its mild-hybrid powertrain was a key technological advancement, offering improved fuel economy and reduced emissions, a crucial factor in its target markets.
Engineering and Performance of the Nissan Serena (C27)
Powertrain Architecture and the S-Hybrid System
At the heart of the Nissan Serena (C27) Highway Star 2.0 S-Hybrid CVT lies a sophisticated MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) powertrain. This system, often referred to as a power-assist or battery-assisted hybrid vehicle (BAHV), strategically integrates an internal combustion engine (ICE) with a compact electric motor. Unlike full hybrids that can operate solely on electric power for significant distances, the S-Hybrid system’s electric motor primarily functions to assist the gasoline engine during acceleration, provide energy regeneration during deceleration, and enable a smoother, more efficient engine start-stop function. This architecture is particularly effective in improving fuel economy in stop-and-go city traffic and reducing the overall carbon footprint without the added complexity and cost of a larger battery or plug-in capability.
The internal combustion engine is a 2.0-liter (1997 cm3 or 121.86 cu. in.) MR20DD inline four-cylinder unit. This engine is designed for efficiency and smooth power delivery, featuring a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain and direct injection fuel system. It produces a respectable 150 horsepower at 6000 rpm, which for a minivan of its size, provides ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. Torque output stands at 147.51 lb.-ft. (200 Nm) at 4400 rpm, ensuring responsive acceleration, especially when aided by the electric motor. The mild hybrid electric motor, though modest in power at 3 horsepower, contributes a significant 35.4 lb.-ft. (48 Nm) of torque, primarily at lower RPMs, which greatly enhances initial acceleration and overall drivability.
Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Nissan has long been a proponent of CVT technology, refining it to deliver seamless acceleration without the traditional shifts of a geared automatic transmission. This contributes to a smoother ride quality and further optimizes fuel efficiency, making the most of the engine and electric motor’s output. The combined fuel economy for this variant is an impressive 39.2 US mpg (6 liters per 100 km), a critical selling point for families seeking to minimize running costs. With a curb weight ranging from 3681.72 to 3769.9 lbs. (1670-1710 kg), the weight-to-power ratio is 11.1 kg/Hp (89.8 Hp/tonne), indicating a well-balanced performance for its class.
Design and Features
The Nissan Serena (C27) Highway Star Aesthetic and Interior Versatility
The Nissan Serena (C27) boasts a distinctive minivan silhouette, characterized by its practical yet appealing design. The “Highway Star” trim level, a popular designation within Nissan’s JDM lineup, typically signifies a sportier and more upscale aesthetic. This often includes unique front grilles, redesigned bumpers, side skirts, and specific alloy wheel designs, giving the minivan a more dynamic and premium appearance compared to standard trims. The vehicle’s dimensions, measuring 187.8 inches (4770 mm) in length, 68.5 inches (1740 mm) in width, and 73.43 inches (1865 mm) in height, are optimized for maneuverability in congested urban environments while maximizing interior volume. The generous 112.6-inch (2860 mm) wheelbase contributes to a stable ride and expansive cabin space.
Inside, the Serena (C27) is a masterclass in spatial efficiency and flexibility. Designed to comfortably seat up to eight passengers across three rows, it offers numerous seating configurations to adapt to varying passenger and cargo needs. Features such as sliding second-row seats, fold-flat third-row seats, and multiple storage compartments underscore its family-oriented design. For a vehicle produced between 2016 and 2019, the Serena (C27) would have incorporated modern amenities such as advanced infotainment systems, connectivity options, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies. While specific details on every feature are not provided, the presence of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is confirmed, and it’s reasonable to expect other standard safety features for its era, such as multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and potentially more advanced systems like automatic emergency braking or lane departure warning, depending on the trim and market.
The driving experience is further enhanced by an electric power steering system and a steering rack and pinion setup, ensuring light and precise handling, particularly beneficial in tight parking situations. The suspension system comprises an independent McPherson type at the front and a torsion beam at the rear, a common and effective setup for minivans that balances ride comfort with load-carrying capability. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing reliable stopping power. Tire options included 195/65 R15 or 195/60 R16, mounted on 15-inch or 16-inch wheel rims, respectively, chosen to optimize ride comfort and fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications: Nissan Serena (C27) Highway Star 2.0 (150 Hp) S-Hybrid CVT
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Serena |
| Generation | Serena (C27) |
| Type (Engine) | Highway Star 2.0 (150 Hp) S-Hybrid CVT |
| Start of Production | 2016 year |
| End of Production | 2019 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle, power-assist hybrid, battery-assisted hybrid vehicles, BAHV) |
| Body Type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp (89.8 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm (119.8 Nm/tonne) |
| Electric Motor 1 Power | 3 Hp |
| Electric Motor Torque | 48 Nm (35.4 lb.-ft.) |
| Internal Combustion Engine Power | 150 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per Liter | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Internal Combustion Engine Torque | 200 Nm @ 4400 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine Layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | MR20DD |
| Engine Displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 |
| Engine Configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.1 mm (3.55 in.) |
| Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel Injection System | Direct injection |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1670-1710 kg (3681.72 – 3769.9 lbs.) |
| Max. Weight (GVWR) | 2110-2150 kg (4651.75 – 4739.94 lbs.) |
| Max Load | 440 kg (970.03 lbs.) |
| Length | 4770 mm (187.8 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1865 mm (73.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2860 mm (112.6 in.) |
| Front Track | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Rear (Back) Track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Ride Height (Ground Clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Minimum Turning Circle (Turning Diameter) | 11-11.4 m (36.09 – 37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work only in mixed mode. |
| Drive Wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of Gears and Type of Gearbox | Automatic transmission CVT |
| Front Suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear Brakes | Disc |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power Steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires Size | 195/65 R15; 195/60 R16 |
| Wheel Rims Size | 15; 16 |
Legacy and Market Impact
The Nissan Serena (C27) Highway Star 2.0 S-Hybrid CVT played a pivotal role in maintaining Nissan’s strong presence in the highly competitive minivan segment, particularly in Japan and other Asian markets where such vehicles are essential family transporters. Its success can be attributed to a combination of factors: its highly practical and adaptable interior, fuel-efficient mild-hybrid powertrain, and the appealing design of the Highway Star trim.
In its primary markets, the Serena (C27) faced stiff competition from formidable rivals such as the Toyota Noah and Voxy, the Honda Stepwgn, and the Mazda Biante (during its production run). Nissan distinguished the Serena through its early adoption and refinement of mild-hybrid technology for a mainstream minivan, offering a tangible advantage in fuel economy and environmental performance without significant added cost. The “Smart Rearview Mirror” (an optional digital rearview mirror) and “ProPILOT” semi-autonomous driving system (introduced in later C27 models, though not specified for this exact variant, it was a generational highlight) were also significant technological differentiators that enhanced its appeal.
The Serena’s reputation for reliability, spaciousness, and ease of use made it a perennial favorite among families. Its relatively compact exterior dimensions, combined with a surprisingly roomy and flexible interior, made it ideal for navigating crowded city streets and parking in tight spaces, a crucial consideration in Japanese urban environments. The C27 generation further cemented the Serena’s legacy as a benchmark for family minivans, showcasing how advanced technology, thoughtful design, and practical utility could converge to create a highly desirable vehicle. Its focus on efficiency with the S-Hybrid system also set a precedent for future family vehicles, demonstrating that even larger passenger cars could embrace electrification for environmental and economic benefits. The Nissan Serena (C27) ultimately reinforced Nissan’s commitment to innovation in a segment that prioritizes comfort, safety, and everyday usability for the modern family.
