Nissan – AutoApp Dev https://www.autoapp.sg/dev Tue, 26 Aug 2025 06:50:50 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 It’s Finally Happened: Nissan Stops Production Of The R35 GT-R After 18 Thunderous Years https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=283361 Tue, 26 Aug 2025 06:50:50 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=283361 18 years is a long time to keep any flame burning, let alone one like the Nissan R35 GT-R.


Today, as assembly for the Japanese domestic market concludes, Nissan draws the curtain on the R35 GT-R.

Launched in 2007, it became a North Star for attainable supercar pace, a rolling syllabus in how software, metallurgy and bloody-minded development can make physics blink first.

A last salute at Tochigi

At Nissan’s Tochigi plant, about 100 kilometres north of Tokyo, workers gathered as the final car (a Premium edition T-Spec in Midnight Purple) slipped off the line, bound for a customer in Japan. In its lifetime, roughly 48,000 units found homes. 

“After 18 remarkable years, the R35 GT-R has left an enduring mark on automotive history. Thank you for being part of this extraordinary journey. To the many fans of the GT-R worldwide, I want to tell you this isn’t a goodbye to the GT-R forever, it’s our goal for the GT-R nameplate to one day make a return.”

Ivan Espinosa, President and CEO of Nissan
Nissan R35 GT-R

From day one, the R35’s mission wasn’t merely to go fast; it was to be multi-talented; Grand Tourer calm and finish paired with the kind of “R” for racing capability that left supercars sweating through their alcantara.

Rather than the usual mid-cycle overhaul, Nissan kept iterating every model year: some variants gained more power, others greater control, comfort and luxury, and when the badge read GT-R NISMO, the dial turned to track-honed.

Final Nissan R35 GT-R

Under the skin, the trinity remained constant: the VR38DETT twin-turbo V6, ATTESA ET-S all-wheel drive, and aerodynamics that earned their keep at three-figure speeds. Power climbed from 353 kW (480 PS) at launch to 419 kW (570 PS) from MY2017; NISMO versions adopted GT3-spec turbochargers and meticulously weight-balanced internals (piston rings, rods, crank, flywheel, crank pulley, valve springs), yielding faster revs, quicker spool and up to 441 kW (600 PS).

And here’s the bit enthusiasts still whisper about: across the run, a core team of just nine Takumi master craftsmen at Yokohama hand-assembled every engine, signing each masterpiece with a plaque. Engineering as authorship.

Lap times that made headlines

Nissan R35 GT-R Key Milestones

The numbers tell the story because they were written the hard way.

  • 2007: a production R35 clocks 7:38 around the Nürburgring Nordschleife, despite a couple of damp corners.
  • Early 2008: on JDM-spec standard tyres and a dry track, chief test driver Toshio Suzuki drops it to 7:29—cracking the 7:30 barrier.
  • 2009: back again, 7:26.
  • October 2012: 7:18.
  • November 2013: a GT-R NISMO with track options (aero tweaks, weight reduction, unique suspension) and Michael Krumm at the helm posts 7:08.679, and today it’s still the R35’s apex lap.

Closer to home, the team took aim at Tsukuba. In December 2019, a MY2020 GT-R NISMO reset the production-car record with 59.361 s. Not content, they returned in January 2024 with a MY2024 GT-R NISMO; Tsugio Matsuda shaved a further 0.283 s to 59.078 s.

And because every hero needs a party trick: in 2016, a specially tuned MY16 R35 GT-R set a Guinness World Records mark for the fastest drift (304.96 km/h at 30 degrees) at Fujairah International Airport, UAE. Unnecessary? Entirely. Glorious? Absolutely.

The racing receipts

Nissan R35 GT500 in racing

The R35 doesn’t just talk a big game; it has the silverware. Among the highlights: five GT500 and three GT300 wins in SUPER GT, victory in the 2013 Blancpain GT Series Pro-Am, a Bathurst 12 Hour triumph in 2015, and five titles in Japan’s Super Taikyu endurance series. 

Ask anyone who’s spent time behind that blocky wheel and they’ll tell you: the genius wasn’t only in the pace, but in the repeatability.

The way the ATTESA brain quietly shuffled torque when conditions turned awkward; how the dual-clutch stayed loyal under heat; how the aero helped the car stay planted on fast, scruffy B-roads. It was German-level fit and finish with a particularly Japanese flavour of engineering voodoo.

The line ends, the story doesn’t

Final Nissan R35 GT-R

Nissan is clear that the nameplate lives on, and the next chapter will simply be written in a different hand.

“We understand the expectations are high, the GT-R badge is not something that can be applied to just any vehicle; it is reserved for something truly special and the R35 set the bar high. So, all I can ask is for your patience. While we don’t have a precise plan finalised today, the GT-R will evolve and reemerge in the future.”

Ivan Espinosa, President and CEO of Nissan

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Nissan Qashqai 1.3T Prestige Review https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=282207 Tue, 20 May 2025 05:30:21 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=282207 The Nissan Qashqai has always been a bit of a design favourite of mine, right from its earliest days. With the 2025 Prestige version, Nissan continues that legacy, keeping its stylish charm intact while freshening things up nicely. It strikes a good balance, looking modern yet comfortably familiar, perfect for anyone who prefers evolution over radical change.

It looks like a mini-Ariya

Nissan Qashqai

The latest design feels sharper and more confident, featuring crisp lines, an assertive front end with sleek LED headlights, and standout 19-inch alloy wheels complete with unique cladding inserts that echo the Nissan Ariya SUV EV. It’s a look that genuinely stands out, turning heads and attracting glances when I enter a car park.

Nissan Qashqai

Step inside, and the cabin feels genuinely premium without trying too hard. High-quality materials are everywhere, complemented by a thoughtful layout and a fully digital instrument cluster that’s crisp and easy on the eyes.

Nissan Qashqai steering wheel

It’s got big-car luxury touches on the inside

Nissan has nailed the comfort game here, with soft, plush seats and plenty of space, making long drives or city commutes equally relaxing. The seats featured in our test car were finished in Amber colour—they looked and felt great, enhancing the already pleasant cabin environment.

I also noticed in the Nissan showroom that if you spec it in black, the side door panels are finished in suede instead, offering a sportier look and feel. The interior has a welcoming vibe that invites you to sit in it a bit longer as you check your phone before you leave the car (admit it, we all do that).

Nissan Qashqai touchscreen

It’s feature-packed

The Prestige trim I tested had a neat automatic tailgate feature with a hands-free kick function—handy when your hands are full of shopping bags or gear. It also adds Dynamic LED turn indicators, a premium Bose sound system, a stunning glass panoramic roof that floods the cabin with natural light, and a practical two-tier cargo floor in the boot—ideal for organising groceries or weekend gear.

Also on the Prestige trim is a larger 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen that smoothly integrates wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Having Nappa leather upholstery as standard is a nice touch, lifting the Qashqai’s interior ambience further into luxury territory. On the safety front, Nissan has generously equipped both trims with advanced features like Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, ensuring peace of mind wherever you drive.

Nissan Qashqai engine

It’s punchy to drive, but it needs some getting used to

Under the bonnet, Nissan’s trusty 1.3-litre turbocharged engine, supported by a mild hybrid system, is back again. At first glance, the driving feel might come across as a bit quirky—the power delivery has a slightly rubbery, elastic quality, arriving in waves rather than a linear flow. But here’s the secret sauce: grab those paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, and you can coax the CVT gearbox into behaving just how you like, keeping the engine revving in its sweet spot. Once you get the hang of it, the Qashqai becomes surprisingly lively, bringing an unexpected dose of fun to your drive.

When it comes to driving dynamics, the Qashqai sits relatively high, which means a bit of body roll is noticeable during spirited cornering. Despite this, the steering is reassuringly well-weighted and gives enough feedback to instil confidence, whether cruising around town or tackling a twisty road. The suspension also does an excellent job, providing what I’d describe as “big-car manners”—smoothly ironing out bumps while feeling planted and secure at higher speeds. It’s a blend of comfort and agility that’s easy to appreciate daily.

Nissan Qashqai rims

It’s not cheap, but then again, nothing is these days

However, priced at $209,000, the Qashqai Prestige does face stiff competition. It finds itself directly competing against the BYD Sealion, a bigger and similarly well-equipped rival from China, quickly gaining popularity among buyers focused on value and practicality. This places Nissan in a challenging position, making the Qashqai a harder sell for some.

Still, the 2025 Nissan Qashqai remains an attractive and genuinely enjoyable option, particularly for those who appreciate its polished ride, appealing design, and engaging driving experience. However, with such formidable competitors in the mix, Nissan will need to lean into its established strengths and loyal fan base to keep the Qashqai firmly on buyers’ shortlists.

Technical Specifications

Nissan Qashqai MHEV 1.3T Prestige

Engine: 1.3-litre 4-cylinder in-line 16-valve DOHC, Turbocharged
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Power: 156 bhp
Torque: 270 Nm
Gearbox: Xtronic CVT (A)
0-100km/h: 9.2 seconds (claimed)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 55 litres 
Fuel Economy: 16 km/litre (claimed)
Price: S$208,800  with COE (accurate at the time of this article)

Photo Credits: Joel Tam (@joel_tam)


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All-New Nissan Qashqai Lands in Singapore https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=281768 Mon, 14 Apr 2025 14:39:36 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=281768 Tan Chong Motor Sales recently lifted the curtain on the all-new Nissan Qashqai. 


The moment marks a quiet reinvention of one of Singapore’s best-selling nameplates, and with over 10,000 units of the previous Qashqai generation already sold locally, this refreshed version is simply here to reclaim it with even more poise.

From the redesigned V-motion grille to its dynamic LED lighting and sculpted aero clads, the new Qashqai now carries itself with a sharp, tailored elegance. The proportions are still right-sized for urban duties, but it now has more presence.

But beneath the slick silhouette lies something more substantial. The 1.3-litre turbocharged mild hybrid engine now replaces the outgoing 1.2, delivering more grunt and efficiency in equal measure.

Step inside and you’ll find the Qashqai has gone full boutique hotel. Suede inserts across the dashboard and centre console blend effortlessly with supple Nappa leather seats.

To complete the five-star ambience, a customisable ambient lighting system lets you set the mood.

A 10-way powered driver’s seat with memory function, frameless rear-view mirror, and a boot you could lose your groceries in all come as standard means creature comforts are well accounted for. 

If the exterior wows and the interior pampers, then the safety systems are where the Qashqai starts whispering sweet nothings.

There’s the new Rear Automatic Emergency Braking feature, in case you miss that low-lying bollard. And the Intelligent Lane Intervention subtly nudges you back into line when it senses you’ve drifted too far into a moment of Spotify-induced zen.

To commemorate the new Nissan Qashqai, Tan Chong Motor Sales is throwing a promotional price of $196,800 (inclusive of COE), valid until 23 April 2025.

And if you’re among the early birds, you’ll also walk away with $5,000 worth of goodies including service vouchers and shopping treats.


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Nissan Walks Away From Honda Merger Talks https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=280818 Sat, 08 Feb 2025 03:20:42 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=280818 What started as a potential game-changing merger between Nissan and Honda has now hit a dead end.


Nissan’s President and CEO, Makoto Uchida, recently met with Honda’s CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, to formally call off negotiations, following Honda’s proposal to make Nissan its subsidiary, which has been navigating financial turbulence, the idea of a merger made sense.

However, when it became clear that Honda envisioned a takeover rather than a partnership, Nissan decided to walk away.  

A Merger That Promised To Reshape The Automotive Industry  

Back in December 2024, Nissan and Honda signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore a merger that could have created the world’s third-largest automotive group, with a combined annual production of 7.4 million units.  

The plan was ambitious and aggressive. The two companies had set a timeline to finalise negotiations by June 2025, with a holding company to be formed by August 2026. If the deal had gone through, both Nissan and Honda would have been delisted from the stock exchange, operating as a unified entity.  

But while the idea of a Japanese automotive powerhouse seemed exciting, cracks in the discussions quickly emerged.  

The First Signs Of Trouble  

By late January, reports suggested that Honda was pushing Nissan to buy back its stake from Renault, an uphill task given the company’s financial constraints. Then came the delay, with both companies pushing back their merger announcement from the end of January to mid-February.

And then came the final blow. Honda proposed making Nissan its subsidiary, a move that they viewed as completely against the spirit of their original discussions.

With this, Nissan is expected to withdraw from discussions at an upcoming board meeting, just ahead of its third-quarter earnings announcement next week.  

Honda Stands Firm, Nissan Stands Down  

Honda, on the other hand, is not willing to budge. According to reports from NHK via Reuters, Honda is uninterested in proceeding with the merger if Nissan refuses to become a subsidiary.

That leaves Nissan in a precarious position.  

2-14 months of financial runway left, according to previous reports, the company must now find a new investor or strategic partner to stabilise its future. Speculation remains about whether Mitsubishi, another struggling Japanese automaker, will step in to fill the gap.  

For now, however, one thing is clear: the e-POWER firm would rather fight for survival on its own terms than be absorbed into Honda’s corporate structure.

What Happens Next?  

The collapse of this merger raises big questions for both companies. For Honda, does rejecting a partnership of equals means it sees a stronger future alone? And for Nissan, can it recover without the financial backing it was seeking?

For now, Nissan is choosing to walk its own path.  


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Nissan Drives Innovation and Fun at Singapore Motorshow 2025 https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=280343 Mon, 13 Jan 2025 16:37:01 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=280343 Nissan showcased a compelling mix of sustainable innovation and cutting-edge technology at the recent 2025 Singapore Motorshow.


Presented by Tan Chong Motor Sales, Nissan’s exclusive distributor in Singapore, the exhibition featured electrified vehicles, interactive activities, and family-friendly entertainment.

Central to Nissan’s presence is its celebrated e-POWER range. Visitors explored models like the family-friendly Serena e-POWER, now available in both seven- and eight-seater configurations, the Kicks e-POWER and Note e-POWER, the X-Trail e-POWER, or the futuristic Ariya EV.

Making its highly anticipated debut at the motorshow was the All-New Nissan Qashqai.

Building on the success of its predecessor, which sold over 10,000 units in Singapore, the new Qashqai arrives with striking design enhancements, including a redesigned front grille, bold headlamp architecture, a sporty rear diffuser, and updated wheels.

Inside, the Qashqai offers customisable ambient lighting, sumptuous Nappa leather upholstery, and an eight-way powered driver’s seat. Safety is prioritised with the innovative Rear Automatic Emergency Braking system, which ensures confidence when reversing.

The Qashqai, available in the captivating new Deep Ocean colour, is priced from $212,800, with exclusive launch promotions offering five years of complimentary servicing.

Beyond its impressive vehicle line-up, Nissan’s booth offers a plethora of activities to engage and entertain visitors of all ages.

Families enjoyed a dedicated kids’ corner featuring a ball pit and colouring activities, while those feeling competitive tested their strength at the e-POWER Hammer Strength Machine, with a chance to win exclusive Nissan Tomica models, including miniatures of the Nissan Fairlady and GT-R Nismo.

To top it all off, attendees participated in a lucky draw with the grand prize of the 2025 Singapore Motorshow being a Nissan LEAF EV, awaiting one fortunate winner.


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Nissan Ariya Review https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=278680 Sat, 02 Nov 2024 18:07:15 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=278680 The Nissan Ariya is the Japanese brand’s newest electric crossover with bold looks and a touch of Japanese minimalism.


This is the long-awaited Nissan Ariya. Born as a concept in 2020, it was quietly delayed due to the pandemic and chip shortages, only starting production in late 2022. 

If the Leaf got you thinking about affordable EVs over a decade ago, the Ariya is here to remind you that Nissan is still committed to making them, but with a more refined and tech-packed approach.

Simplicity is bliss

Nissan Ariya

The Ariya’s design feels both futuristic and familiar. Nissan’s gone for a “simple and clear Japanese design identity,” with a streamlined look that’s all about subtle elegance.

There’s a “horizon line” that traces the car’s contours, giving it a sculpted feel. Up front, you’ll spot a plastic panel with a traditional kumiko pattern (a bit of Japan’s artisan heritage), housing sensors behind.

Big upgrades on the inside

Nissan Ariya interior

Step inside, and it’s even more minimalist. The dash is a layered affair, combining fabric and wood with an ultra-clean design. The buttons are touch-sensitive and backlit through the wood veneer itself.

The Ariya’s interior is both spacious and smart. The haptic buttons present provide just enough functionality to avert your fingers from the 12.3-inch centre touchscreen, and the steering wheel buttons are still clickable for more tactile feedback.

You even get two gloveboxes to account for the lack of cubby storage on the centre console, and the centre one is especially useful for loose items that may otherwise slide around whilst driving.

Nissan Ariya boot

With a long wheelbase and flat floor, the back seat offers ample legroom, and three passengers can fit comfortably.

At 466 litres, boot space is generous. Nissan’s thoughtful compartmentalisation is present too, allowing you to separate cargo and prevent them from sloshing about. There’s no frunk here, but you do get useful underfloor storage for charge cables.

But how does it drive?

Nissan Ariya

Built on a dedicated EV platform, the Nissan Ariya is a significant leap from the Leaf, now with liquid-cooled batteries, faster charging, and some very efficient coil motors free of rare earth metals.

Singapore only gets one powertrain for now, and that comes with 215bhp and 300Nm fed to a front-mounted electric motor. It’s plenty for our local roads, and the Ariya delivers power in a smooth, controlled burst.

Nissan also claims the Ariya has “GT-R genes”. A bold statement for an electric crossover, but in spirit, there’s a touch of truth.

The Ariya does feel agile, with a balanced demeanour and enough pep to keep things interesting. The ride is fairly firm, so you’ll feel the road beneath you, but it’s generally well-mannered, though it does tend to give a slight jolt over potholes.

The steering is pleasantly weighted and responsive in Normal mode, although switching to Sports mode brings an artificial heft. And for a bit of city-driving comfort, there’s Nissan’s e-pedal drive, which boosts regenerative braking to recoup some battery charge.

However, brake pedal feel can be a touch better, especially when transitioning from regen to friction braking.

Is charging an easy affair?

Nissan Ariya charging

While the Nissan Ariya only manages 50kW with DC charging, the 66kWh battery is still fairly quick to top off. When full, the car can deliver about 385km of range or 5.2km/kWh.

In testing, I managed to average 5.15km/kWh, and that’s with a bit of spirited driving thrown into the mix, so the Ariya scores well in this department.

Solid, stylish, and ready for the road

Nissan Ariya

The Nissan Ariya arrives late to the crossover EV party, but it brings with it a unique sense of style, practicality, and thoughtful tech. While it doesn’t necessarily bring revolutionary tech to the table, it does tick the boxes with features that EV buyers appreciate. For those who trust Nissan’s EV legacy from the Leaf, the Ariya is a natural step up.

The Ariya’s price does sit above Nissan’s usual comfort zone, but its quality and features are on par with its more luxurious competitors.

If you’re drawn to its design and want the practicality of a well-thought-out electric crossover, the Ariya might just be the ideal choice.

Technical Specifications

Nissan Ariya Electric

Powertrain: Single Electric Motor, Front-Wheel Drive
Power: 160 kW (215 bhp)
Torque: 300 Nm
Gearbox: Single-Speed Reduction Gear (A)
0-100km/h: 8.0 seconds
Top Speed: 160km/h
Battery Capacity: 66 kWh
Energy Consumption: 5.2 km/kWh (claimed)

Price: S$249,800 (Single-Tone), S$251,800 (Dual-Tone), both with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Nissan Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven


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The Nissan Ariya Is Now Available In Singapore https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=277436 Wed, 18 Sep 2024 04:00:00 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=277436 Tan Chong Motor has just opened orders for the all-electric Nissan Ariya.


Crafted in Japan, the Nissan Ariya’s design philosophy draws from Japanese minimalism, integrating the concept of Iki, which is all about understated elegance.

Nissan Ariya Singapore

One of the standout details is the Kumiko pattern on the front shield, a traditional Japanese motif that you’ll also find tastefully woven into the cabin’s design.

Nissan Ariya Singapore

And speaking of the cabin, Andon lighting, reminiscent of the soft glow of Japanese paper lanterns, creates a warm, welcoming interior atmosphere that’s hard to resist. 

Inside, you’ll be greeted by two 12.3-inch displays: one serving as the digital instrument cluster and the other housing Nissan’s Connect infotainment system. 

Nissan Ariya Singapore

Under the floor sits a 66kWh battery powering a 215bhp electric motor, with 300Nm of torque. The Nissan Ariya delivers a range of 385km (WLTP combined) or up to 502km (WLTP city).

Nissan Ariya Singapore

If you’re ready to get behind the wheel, the Nissan Ariya is available for pre-booking at a starting price of $242,800 (until 18 September 2024).

That price comes with an eight-year, 160,000km lithium-ion battery capacity warranty, as well as a five-year, unlimited mileage vehicle warranty. The first 10 customers to book the Ariya will be treated to an exclusive omakase dinner for two.

If you’re intrigued by the fusion of tradition and modernity that the Ariya represents, head over to Nissan Singapore’s Ubi or Leng Kee showroom to take a closer look or test drive.


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NISMO Festival 2024 Set To Return To Fuji Speedway https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=276690 Wed, 07 Aug 2024 23:55:34 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=276690 Nissan has announced that the 2024 NISMO Festival, slated for December 1st, will happen at the Fuji International Speedway in Shizuoka, Japan.


This year’s festival is particularly special as it marks NISMO’s 40th anniversary. Expect to see a parade of legendary machines like the NISMO 270R, the NISMO 400R, and the R34 GT-R Z-tune.

These icons will be joined by the latest in the NISMO road car lineup, ranging from the March NISMO to the high-performance Nissan GT-R NISMO.

Motorsport legends that have solidified NISMO’s reputation will grace the track for demonstration laps. Examples include the Nissan Formula E race car and the CNF-powered Super GT Nissan Z NISMO GT500 showcasing the future of racing technology.

Now in its 25th year, the NISMO Festival is a heartfelt fan appreciation event. The annual “NISMO Cars Parade Run” will feature a comprehensive lineup of NISMO models, past and present.

Race car exhibitions, driver talk shows, interactive experiences, and exclusive merchandise shops are all part of the package.

Takao Katagiri, the head of Nissan’s Motorsports Business Unit and president of NMC, added: “We are immensely grateful for the dedication of our fans over the past four decades. The longevity of the NISMO brand is a testament to this devoted community. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you at the festival.”

Further details and ticket information will be available this fall on the NISMO Festival website, so mark your calendars.


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2024 Nissan Serena e-POWER Hybrid Review – Serene And Refined https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=275138 Sat, 08 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=275138 There’s just something special when a well-chosen family vehicle gives you that quiet satisfaction. That’s what the Nissan Serena offers in spades.


MPVs seem to be back in trend, a thankful reprise from the SUV onslaught that has dominated the automotive market in recent years.

Let’s face it, an MPV is just better when it comes to hauling around a large family, and the Nissan Serena proves you can do it both in style and efficiency.

The Nissan Serena tries its best to hide its rear minivan bulk, with a sloping front end that breaks away the otherwise tall roofline. It’s a straightforward, functional aesthetic that keeps it in trend without worrying if someone would complain that they’re driving around in a metal box.

The latest model sports a more understated approach to the ‘V-Motion’ grille. Black and horizontal lines dominate, steering clear of the flashy chrome that once adorned its predecessor.

This MPV might not fit the traditional definition of ‘sexy’, but it exudes a sleekness that’s rare in its category, and doesn’t compromise on the essentials that matter: space, comfort, and efficiency.

Venture inside and you’ll discover a sanctuary of space. The Serena is frankly cavernous, designed for the comfort of every passenger, from the driver to the rearmost rider.

The absence of a sunroof is a shame, but its absence does not dampen the airy and expansive feel inside, thanks to generously sized windows that cocoon you in tranquillity.

This higher Prestige 7-seater configuration is particularly delightful, with the middle-row captain’s chairs sliding out of the way easily to craft 3rd-row pathways. Frankly, you don’t even need to shift these chairs forward to allow ingress for 3rd-row occupants.

My main gripe with the interior is the rather tall position of the driver’s seat. There just wasn’t a natural position for my leg to feel comfortable, and it almost felt that I had to sit properly upright in order to maximise driving comfort.

What really sets the latest Serena apart is its refined cabin architecture. You used to get a bunch of useful cubby compartments in the old model; utilitarian, but otherwise mundane.

With the new model, Nissan has revamped the dashboard, integrating digital screens with just the right amount of physical buttons.

A pair of large screens dominate your immediate view, with a clever mix of haptic panels and physical knobs that allow for intuitive air conditioning control.

Quality isn’t bad either, and you are nicely covered in Nappa leather around the cabin, albeit with the inevitable intrusion of practical plastics closer to the floor.

This biggest party trick the Serena offers is its innovative dual-tailgate system, a standout feature that proves invaluable in cramped urban car parks, allowing access to the boot without the need to swing open the entire gate.

The Nissan Serena is rather unique in its class drivetrain-wise. While you usually see hybrid systems in modern MPVs, the Serena’s e-POWER setup gives it EV-like advantages, while still being able to fill up with petrol.

If you aren’t familiar, the engine doesn’t drive the wheels directly. Instead, it charges the battery that powers the electric motor, making the Serena effectively electric in propulsion.

The new 1.4-litre engine that replaces the older 1.2-litre model offers quicker battery charging and greater overall refinement. The electric motor itself has received a boost too, now delivering an extra 29bhp over its predecessor, which translates to a more robust 161bhp and 315Nm of torque.

This combination enables the car to get off the line with surprising nimbleness, something that belies its boxy silhouette.

Navigating the Serena feels intuitive thanks to the aforementioned elevated driving position and a suspension system that absorbs bumps with grace. Visibility is panoramic, and steering, while light, gains a satisfying weight as you pick up speed.

It’s equipped to handle the rigours of family life, with safety features like Intelligent Cruise Control and Blind Spot Assist adding layers of comfort and security to the drive.

One might think a vehicle of this size would be a challenge to handle, but its comparatively narrow body and short bonnet make it easy to manoeuvre. Plus, Nissan has significantly dialled down the engine drone (a common critique of the past model), ensuring a serene ride even at high engine loads.

Now, onto the perennial question of fuel efficiency. After a robust test run with a funny posse of passengers in tow, the Serena shows off with about 16.2km/litre. That’s pretty decent for a hefty 7-seater; It might not be the top of its class in this regard, but it holds its own.

Now, MPVs might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those who value the practicality they offer, the Serena e-POWER presents a compelling case. This latest iteration has been significantly refined from its predecessors, offering a more polished ride, enhanced with all the trappings of a modern family hauler.

And yes, while there are other players in the field, the Serena holds its own with a unique proposition – at least for now.

The sum of its parts makes it a contender worth considering for those needing a dependable, versatile family car.

Technical Specifications

Nissan Serena e-POWER Hybrid

Engine: 1,433cc 3-cylinder in-line DOHC
Powertrain: Front Wheel Drive
Power: 161bhp (Combined)
Torque: 315Nm
Gearbox: Single Speed Reduction Gear (A)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 52 Litres
Fuel Economy: 20.4 km/L (claimed)

Price (All with COE, accurate at the time of this article)

  • S$209,800 (Premium 8-Seater)
  • S$212,800 (Prestige 7-Seater Single Tone)
  • S$214,800 (Prestige 7-Seater Dual Tone)

Contact: Nissan Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven


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New Nissan Serena e-Power to be Launched At Nissan Family Day https://www.autoapp.sg/dev/?p=274705 Wed, 15 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.autoapp.sg/?p=274705 Check out the new Nissan Serena e-Power and enjoy exclusive discounts at Nissan showrooms on 18 and 19 May 2024.


Nissan is inviting car enthusiasts and their families for an electrifying weekend of fun and adventure at Nissan Family Day on 18 and 19 May 2024.

Also, be among the first to test drive the new Nissan Serena e-Power. Being family-friendly and with Nissan’s second-generation e-Power hybrid drivetrain, the new Serena is spacious and can transport your family in comfort for daily duties and weekend getaways alike.

The Serena e-POWER’s design embodies “Timeless Japanese Futurism”, blending aesthetics with functionality. On the inside, passengers enjoy natural light through the large windows, zero gravity seats for comfort, and tri-zone climate control, ensuring a fresh-smelling environment.

Convenience features like twin auto-sliding doors and customisable seat configurations enhance the driving experience, while advanced safety features including Lane Departure Warning and Intelligent Cruise Control, ensures a peace of mind.

With seamless connectivity and charging options, the Serena e-POWER will keep your family happy for journeys both long and short.

The all-new Serena e-POWER is available for booking now and retails from $212,800, valid until 23 May 2024. Furthermore, as a special treat, Nissan will be offering exclusive promotions and discounts on the all-new Serena e-POWER for their customers during the 2-day event.

The first 30 customers who purchase the Nissan Serena e-POWER will receive 4 complimentary tickets to Universal Studios Singapore.

Also, from now until 23 May 2024, customers can enjoy an exclusive launch discount of $3,000, up to 50,000km free servicing, $5,000 COE bonus rebate and free 1-year Road Tax. Terms and conditions apply.

Also, the kids can enjoy the beloved bouncy castle and interactive game stations at Nissan Family Day. Awaiting all family members will be mesmerising magic shows and immersive storytelling sessions, ensuring the whole family is delighted and entertained.

Family days are not complete without a selection of delectable food. From crispy churros, addictive tater tots to savoury cocktail sausages, there will be something to fuel every appetite.

Activities will be held from 12PM to 5PM on Saturday and Sunday. Here’s the itinerary for both days:

  • Magic Shows
    Ubi: 18 May, 1pm | 19 May, 4pm
    Leng Kee: 18 May, 3pm | 19 May, 2pm
  • Storytelling Shows
    Ubi: 18 May, 3pm | 19 May, 2pm
    Leng Kee: 18 May, 1pm | 19 May, 4pm

Head on down to Nissan’s Ubi or Leng Kee showrooms with the family in tow.

Photo Credits: Nissan Singapore


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