2026 Nissan Serena e-Power buyer's guide: Breaking down all five trims from RM155k to RM180k

In March 2026, Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) officially launched the sixth-generation Nissan Serena e-Power in Malaysia. This marks the Serena's first time being locally assembled (CKD), and it is also the very first e-Power model to be assembled in Malaysia.

Built at the Serendah plant in Selangor, Serena units assembled here will also be exported to Thailand.

The Serena occupies a unique sweet spot in the MPV market. It doesn't go down the ultra-luxury route like the Alphard, nor is it an entry-level people-mover like the Alza. Instead, it sits comfortably in between as a proper Japanese mid-size hybrid MPV.

How e-Power works

The biggest change in this generation of the Serena lies in its powertrain. The previous generation's 2.0L S-Hybrid setup has been completely retired.

Under the bonnet is a 1.4-litre HR14DDe 3-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine delivering 98 PS and 123 Nm. However, this engine never drives the wheels directly; its sole function is to act as a generator to charge the 1.77 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

The front wheels are driven purely by an electric motor that produces 163 PS (160 hp) and 315 Nm. Simply put, it drives just like an EV——instant torque off the line, seamless acceleration without gear shifts, and none of that typical CVT rubber-band drone.

This 2nd-generation Nissan e-Power system is rated with an official fuel consumption figure of 18.5 km/L (NEDC), offering a theoretical range of nearly 1,000 km from its 52-litre fuel tank. Factoring in real-world driving conditions, clocking well over 800 km on a single tank shouldn't be an issue at all.

Five variants

Pricing across the five variants, from entry-level to top-spec, is as follows:

For early-bird buyers, ETCM is offering an RM5,000 cash rebate across the entire line-up. Additionally, an OEM accessories package worth RM8,000 is bundled exclusively for Highway Star variants and above, excluding the X and X Plus.

Factoring in the RM5,000 cash rebate, the entry price drops to just RM149,800.

X Variant (RM154,800)

Comes equipped with full LED headlamps and tail lamps, 16-inch alloy wheels, a left-side powered sliding door, manual split-opening tailgate, 7-inch semi-digital instrument display, 9-inch infotainment touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, water-repellent fabric upholstery, and e-Pedal mode.

On the safety front, it gets 6 airbags, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) as standard.

X Plus (RM159,800)

Priced RM5,000 higher than the X. Upgrades include combination leatherette upholstery (manual adjust), a 14-inch rear seat overhead monitor, and factory-fitted V-Kool security tinting. All other specifications mirror the X.

Highway Star (RM169,800)

Demands a RM10,000 premium over the X Plus, representing the most substantial equipment jump in the range.

It adds a sportier V-Motion front grille, LED front fog lamps, dual powered sliding doors, acoustic double-glazed front windscreen, 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster, 12.3-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, second-row trays, and a 360-degree surround view.

Crucially, active safety is upgraded from this variant onwards with the ProPILOT suite, featuring Full-Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Centering Assist (LCA).

Premium Highway Star (RM174,800)

An extra RM5,000 over the standard Highway Star, adding black Nappa leather upholstery and a two-tone exterior colour scheme (black finish across A-to-D pillars and roof).

Shiro Premium Highway Star (RM179,800)

The range-topping trim commands another RM5,000 over the Premium Highway Star. It features white Nappa leather upholstery, a powered tailgate, and a motorised 14-inch roof-mounted rear display.

Cabin space and practicality

Dimensionally, it measures 4,765 mm long, 1,715 mm wide, 1,885 mm tall, with a 2,870 mm wheelbase. Kerb weight stands at 1,799 kg, while standard boot capacity is 280 litres.

It features a 2+2+3 seven-seater layout. The second row houses two individual Captain seats with armrests, which can slide fore-aft as well as sideways.

Third-row ingress is effortless via two methods: sliding the second-row seats sideways or utilising the one-touch Easy Access sliding switch.

The cabin boasts 26 storage compartments, up to 17 cup holders, and versatile seating with up to 13 possible configurations. It also has a split-opening tailgate.

Warranty

Standard vehicle warranty coverage is 5 years or 100,000 km. Key e-Power components (battery, inverter, and power control unit) are covered by an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty.

Which trim fits you?

The buying rationale across the line-up is straightforward.

Strict budget, strictly need a 7-seater: The X variant. At RM154,800, you get the core e-Power hybrid system, 6 airbags, AEB, BSM, and a powered sliding door on the kerb side. All core essentials are well accounted for.

Want rear-seat entertainment: The X Plus. An extra RM5,000 nets you the roof screen, leatherette seats, and window tint—ideal for family road trips with kids.

The Sweet Spot (Best Value): The Highway Star. This variant offers the biggest jump in equipment. Forking out an extra RM10,000 secures the ProPILOT suite, dual 12.3-inch displays, dual powered sliding doors, wireless charging, and a 360-degree camera. ProPILOT's full-speed ACC and Lane Centering significantly reduce fatigue on long highway drives.

For the Luxury Touch: Premium Highway Star or Shiro. The former gets black Nappa leather, while the latter treats you to white Nappa leather, a powered tailgate, and a motorised roof monitor.

The Serena bridges the gap perfectly between the Alza and the Alphard. If you need a proper 7-seater but cannot justify Alphard money, yet find compact B-segment MPVs like the Alza too tight, the Serena is the ideal middle ground.

With the e-Power system delivering EV-smooth acceleration and exceptional fuel economy, paired with the added peace of mind from ProPILOT, this family carrier blends tech with everyday usability. For families who frequently travel together, it remains one of the most practical and sensible buys in this price bracket.