The 2018 Nissan Serena is a phenomenon in the family minivan market, offering a unique combination of spacious interior space and advanced hybrid technology. This car, which replaced the previous generation, radically changed the perception of comfort in the class, focusing on intelligent driver assistance systems and efficiency. Owners often note that this year was a turning point when e-POWER hybrid system ceased to be exotic and became a mass choice for family car enthusiasts.
When buying a car on the secondary market, it is worth considering many nuances, from the condition CVT transmissions until the active safety systems are operational. Nissan Serena The 2018 model offers extensive interior customization and functionality thanks to its modular seat design. However, like any complex mechanism, it requires careful attention to maintenance and an understanding of the operating principles of its power plant.
Design and appearance of the updated minivan
The appearance of the 2018 car has undergone significant changes, becoming more aggressive and modern compared to its predecessor. Designers abandoned smooth lines in favor of sharper edges, which gave Nissan Serena sporty character without losing its utilitarian essence. The front end received a new V-motion radiator grille, which became wider and more massive, visually expanding the car.
Particular attention is paid to lighting technology, where LED elements are used to provide excellent visibility at night. The side lines of the body have become more dynamic, and large windows create the effect of panoramic glazing, which is critical for a minivan, where passengers in the back rows often get bored on the road. The rear has a redesigned bumper and new lights, which make the car's dimensions more visible on the road.
The car's ground clearance is about 150 mm, which allows it to feel confident not only in the city, but also on dirt roads outside the city. However, it is worth remembering that a low sill may be vulnerable when parking on curbs. Aerodynamics was improved by optimizing the shape of the mirrors and the bottom, which had a positive effect on noise insulation and fuel consumption.
Owners often choose a body color that emphasizes the status of the car, for example, deep black or metallic. It is important to check the condition of the paintwork during inspection, as the thin layers of paint on Japanese cars can be prone to chipping. Body panels fitted with high precision, which indicates high-quality assembly from the manufacturer.
Technical characteristics and power units
Under the hood Nissan Serena 2018 hides one of the most interesting technological solutions of that time - the system e-POWER. Unlike classic hybrids, where the engine runs both on the wheels and to charge the battery, here there is a gasoline engine HR12DE performs exclusively the role of a generator. It charges the traction battery, and the movement of the wheels is provided only by the electric motor, which gives the feeling of driving an electric car.
The 1.2-liter gasoline engine develops a power of 78 horsepower, but due to the instant torque of the electric motor, acceleration to 100 km/h is quite brisk. The system does not have a classic gearbox, but instead uses single stage gearbox, which transmits rotation to the wheels. This makes the control smooth and devoid of jerks typical of traditional CVTs.
There is also a version with a classic 1.2-liter gasoline engine without a hybrid installation, but it is less common and less in demand on the market. It uses traditional CVT Xtronic, which requires more careful maintenance and regular oil changes. The hybrid version, despite the complexity of the design, turns out to be more reliable in the long term due to the absence of direct mechanical wear on the transmission.
Combined fuel consumption for the hybrid version is about 6.5 liters per 100 km, which is an excellent indicator for a car of this size and weight. In urban mode, where the electric motor operates in its most efficient mode, consumption can drop even lower. However, with an active driving style with constant acceleration, consumption can increase to 8-9 liters.
Below is a table of the main technical parameters for different modifications:
| Parameter | Hybrid e-POWER | Petrol 1.2 (CVT) | Petrol 1.6 (CVT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine size | 1.2 l (HR12DE) | 1.2 l (HR12DE) | 1.6 l (HR16DE) |
| Power (hp) | 110 (electric motor) | 78 | 117 |
| Torque (Nm) | 280 | 104 | 158 |
| Drive | Front / Full (4WD) | Front / Full (4WD) | Front / Full (4WD) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 11.2 sec | 14.5 sec | 12.1 sec |
Interior comfort and interior functionality
Inside Nissan Serena In 2018, there is an atmosphere of spaciousness and technology. The cabin is designed so that every passenger feels as comfortable as possible, regardless of the seating location. Seats made of high-quality materials that are pleasant to the touch and resistant to abrasion. Top trim levels use leather with perforations and ventilation, which is critical for hot climates.
One of the main features of the cabin is the Magic Seat system, which allows you to transform the rear row of seats into a flat surface or completely remove them from the cabin for transporting large cargo. This turns the minivan into a real one. utility vehicle without loss of comfort for second-row passengers. Second-row seats are often equipped with a sliding mechanism, which allows you to adjust the space between the rows.
The instrument panel is made in a modern style with digital displays that display all the necessary information about the operation of the vehicle systems. The multimedia system supports smartphone connectivity, navigation and has a large touch screen. Noise insulation at a high level, which allows you to carry on a conversation even at high speeds.
It is important to note that the height of the cabin allows adult passengers to sit with a straight back without resting their heads on the ceiling. This is rare for cars of this class. However, cargo space with the third-row seats fully deployed can feel cramped for large suitcases. Trunk volume is only 130 liters in standard position, which requires proper distribution of the load.
- Hybrid e-POWER (Comfort)
- Petrol 1.2 (Economy)
- Petrol 1.6 (Power)
- All-wheel drive 4WD
Security systems and electronics
The 2018 Nissan Serena features ProPILOT, one of the first semi-autonomous driving systems in its class. This technology allows the car to independently control steering, speed and braking in traffic jams and on highways. The system uses a camera and radar to track lane markings and the vehicle ahead, reducing driver stress on long journeys.
Among other important options, it is worth highlighting the blind spot monitoring system, which warns of the presence of other vehicles when changing lanes. Also available is the Around View Monitor, which creates a virtual overhead view of the vehicle to assist with parking. Cameras high resolution provide a clear picture even in the twilight. The keyless entry and push-button engine start system makes using the car as convenient as possible.
It is important to understand that ProPILOT systems do not replace the driver, but only assist him. The driver must keep his hands on the steering wheel at all times and be ready to intervene. Sensors may not operate properly if heavily soiled or in difficult weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow. Therefore, it is recommended to periodically check the cleanliness of sensors and cameras.
In the event of an emergency, airbags located throughout the cabin, including side and curtain airbags, are deployed. Seat belts are equipped with pretensioners and force limiters. Electronic stabilization system VDC prevents skidding and loss of control on slippery roads. Owners often note the effectiveness of these systems during sudden maneuvers.
☑️ Check security systems before purchasing
What to do if the ProPILOT system fails?
If the system is disabled, a warning message will illuminate on the instrument panel. In this case, you must immediately take control, do not panic and gradually reduce the speed. You should not try to reboot the system while moving.
Operation and maintenance features
Service Nissan Serena 2018 requires a special approach, especially in terms of the hybrid system. The gasoline engine operates in a gentle mode, since it is not directly connected to the wheels, which prolongs its service life. However inverter and high voltage battery require regular diagnostics. It is recommended to check the battery condition every 40,000 km.
The oil in the variator (for non-hybrid versions) or in the gearbox (for a hybrid) must be changed every 60,000 km. The use of original fluids is mandatory, since low-quality oil can lead to failure of expensive components. Brake system also has its own characteristics: due to regenerative braking in a hybrid, mechanical pads wear out more slowly, but they need to be checked for jamming from inactivity.
The car's suspension is tuned for comfort, so it softly absorbs bumps, but can be too rolly when cornering. Shock absorbers and levers last a long time, but when driving on bad roads their service life is reduced. Steering with electric power steering makes it easy to maneuver, but sometimes may require adjusting the wheel alignment angles. Timely wheel alignment will prevent uneven tire wear.
Winter operation is not a problem thanks to good heating of the interior and the presence of all-wheel drive in some trim levels. However, it is worth remembering that the hybrid battery can lose capacity at extremely low temperatures, which increases fuel consumption. Coolant and antifreeze must be filled in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements. It is not recommended to overheat the engine during long trips uphill.
Before parking a hybrid car for a long time in cold weather, it is recommended to disconnect the high-voltage battery or connect the car to the network to maintain the charge in order to avoid deep discharge.
Advantages and disadvantages of the model
The car has a number of undeniable advantages that make it a leader in its class. First of all, this is a unique system e-POWER, providing quietness and smoothness comparable to an electric car. The spacious interior and the ability to transform the seats make it ideal for large families. The high level of equipment and the presence of advanced security systems are also strong arguments in favor of the purchase.
However, there are also disadvantages that a potential owner should be aware of. The main one is the complexity and high cost of repairing a hybrid system, especially if the inverter or battery fails. Spare parts may be expensive and not always available in stock, especially original components. It is also worth noting the low acceleration dynamics compared to competitors equipped with turbocharged engines.
The interior design, although modern, may seem too plain or plasticky in the lower portions of the cabin for some users. The rear suspension may be too soft for active driving enthusiasts. Fuel consumption in traffic jams in extreme heat, when the air conditioner is running at full power, it may be higher than stated. However, for most owners, these disadvantages are outweighed by comfort and practicality.
Overall, Nissan Serena The 2018 is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable, comfortable family car with advanced technology. It is ideal for city use and country trips, providing a high level of safety and convenience. Market value model remains consistently high, which indicates the car’s demand.
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a used vehicle, be sure to check the service history of the hybrid battery. If the battery is replaced with a non-original or refurbished one, it may cause serious problems in the future.
⚠️ Warning: Do not ignore warnings about ProPILOT system malfunction. Even if the car is driving normally, sensor failures can lead to loss of control in a critical situation.
The e-POWER hybrid system is a key benefit of the 2018 Nissan Serena, providing a unique combination of efficiency and smoothness, but requires expert service.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the real fuel consumption of the 2018 Nissan Serena hybrid?
In real operating conditions, the fuel consumption of the hybrid version Nissan Serena 2018 is from 6.0 to 7.5 liters per 100 km in the combined cycle. In dense city traffic it can be even lower, since the electric motor works more efficiently. On the highway at speeds above 100 km/h, consumption increases due to the gasoline engine operating at high speeds.
Is it necessary to warm up the engine before driving in winter?
For hybrid version Nissan Serena 2018 does not require long warm-up. 1-2 minutes are enough for the system to enter operating mode. The gasoline engine works only to generate energy and is not subjected to high loads at the moment of starting. However, in severe frosts, it is recommended to let the oil warm up a little before driving.
Can you tow a trailer with the 2018 Nissan Serena?
Yes, the car has a towing device, but its carrying capacity is limited. The maximum towable trailer weight with brakes is approximately 750 kg. Overload may cause the CVT or hybrid system to overheat. It is recommended to use special fastenings and follow towing rules.
What is the lifespan of the e-POWER battery?
The manufacturer claims the battery life for the entire service life of the car, but in practice it may require replacement after 150,000 - 200,000 km. The service life depends on operating conditions and regular maintenance. Replacing a battery is an expensive procedure, so it's worth considering this when purchasing a high-mileage vehicle.
How is the S-Cargo version different from the regular Serena?
The S-Cargo version is a specific modification aimed at commercial use or lovers of retro design. It has a modified truck-like appearance and often lacks rear seats for carrying cargo. Regular Nissan Serena 2018 is focused on passenger transportation and family comfort.