Malaysia’s Long-Running Serena Enters e-POWER Era with Solid Early Demand

The sixth-generation Nissan Serena e-POWER has made a strong debut in Malaysia, recording over 1,300 bookings and approximately 250 deliveries within its first month on the market. April deliveries are expected to reach nearly 1,000 units, signalling robust early demand for the midsized MPV. This latest iteration, introduced by Nissan’s local assembler and distributor Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM), builds on the Serena’s longstanding popularity in the country, where it has consistently been one of Nissan’s best-selling models. A significant shift with the 2026 Serena is its transition from a mild hybrid system to the full e-POWER technology, which drives the wheels entirely via an electric motor powered by a small gasoline engine acting solely as a generator. This setup offers smoother acceleration, eliminates gear shifts, and reduces vibrations, providing an electric vehicle-like experience without the need for external charging infrastructure—a key advantage in Malaysia’s still-developing EV charging network. The e-POWER system enhances the Serena’s appeal to family buyers by improving efficiency and ride refinement while maintaining familiar driving habits. Executives from ETCM and Nissan have expressed confidence that the Serena e-POWER will continue to lead the MPV segment in Malaysia. Christopher Tan, Executive Vice President of ETCM, highlighted the model’s dynamic performance and advanced safety technologies, including the introduction of Nissan ProPILOT driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance. Shohei Yamazaki of Nissan Motor Co. emphasised the model’s role in strengthening Nissan’s brand presence and electrified lineup in the region, reflecting a long-term commitment to innovation tailored to Malaysian consumers. The Serena e-POWER delivers 163 PS and 315 Nm of torque from its electric motor, supported by a 1.77 kWh battery and multiple drive modes, including a single-pedal driving function. Fuel efficiency is rated at 18.5 km per litre under NEDC testing, with a claimed driving range of up to 1,000 km per tank, reinforcing its suitability for long-distance family travel. The vehicle also benefits from improved ride comfort through enhanced insulation, suspension tuning, and aerodynamic refinements, alongside interior upgrades such as dual 12.3-inch displays and flexible seating arrangements. Offered in five variants priced between RM154,800 and RM179,800, the Serena e-POWER comes with a five-year or 100,000 km warranty and an eight-year or 160,000 km warranty for its e-POWER components. Early purchasers are incentivised with a RM5,000 rebate and an accessories package worth RM8,000, further boosting the model’s attractiveness in a competitive market. The Serena’s successful launch marks a notable step in Malaysia’s gradual shift towards electrified vehicles, particularly in the family MPV segment.