C27 Nissan Serena facelift – better safety, bolder face!

The C27 Nissan Serena still feels like a fresh product in this part of the world, having been launched here just last year in May. However, Nissan Japan has gone public by showing the facelifted MPV in full on its website, revealing two variants with very specific design revisions.

The first model in red takes on a more subtle restyle, featuring a tidier V-Motion grille with slimmer horizontal chrome bars, while the mesh design appears to be more three-dimensional than the outgoing model. The grille’s chrome edges now bleed into the new headlights, making the split units appear conjoined, despite retaining the exact same shape from before.

The V-Motion chin has also been raised, giving the lower bumper (the edges now get more prominent air curtains) a slightly cleaner look. The rectangular fog lamps are missing on this model, suggesting that it could be a cheaper variant.

But let’s face it, you’re here to talk about that big chrome grille, aren’t you? Based on what’s available on the website, the grille, which features seven rows and columns of slim chrome strips, is factory-fitted and is likely to be featured on more expensive variants, such as the Serena e-Power. This is the first time the V-Motion grille has been given such a bold look.

Here, the headlight graphics are completely new as well, with a combination of projector and reflector units, as well as more chrome accents that underscore the illuminating components. Fog lamps are present here, and they are highlighted by gloss black surrounds that are connected to the bolder air curtains. Other changes include new wheels, revised tail lights (taller than before), and a new rear bumper.

Inside, the cabin appears largely untouched. The picture you see below is of the Serena e-Power, which comes with a unique electronic gear shifter, electro-mechanical parking brake (regular Serena models get a foot parking brake), blue push-start button, and auto brake-hold assist.

The website also shows a selection of interior colours. Models with fabric upholstery get three colour schemes – grey and black, black (with what looks like burgundy seats), and a full beige cabin. The premium black leather upholstery with quilted pattern is clearly reserved for the most expensive variant.

Other than that, expect no other changes to be done. The Serena will still be powered by the existing range of engines, such as the MR20DD 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol engine, as well as the HR12DE three-cylinder petrol engine found on the Serena e-Power. The former makes 150 PS at 6,000 rpm and 200 Nm at 4,400 rpm and is mated to an Xtronic CVT.

For safety, the updated Serena will get Nissan Intelligent Mobility, with features such as adaptive cruise control with intelligent emergency braking, adaptive LED headlights, rear cross traffic alert, and emergency brake for pedal misoperation.

Lastly, two new exterior colours join the existing palette, those being Sunrise Orange and Dark Metal Grey. Both colours can be had in a two-tone finish, with the roof and A-pillars painted in gloss black. Other colours include Cashmere, Maroon Red, Imperial Amber, Brilliant Silver, Azulite Blue, Diamond Black, and Brilliant White Pearl. So, thoughts, anyone?

Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.

Learn more: Nissan Serena C27