Nissan Serena: trunk volume and secrets of its effective use

The fifth generation stands apart (C27, from 2022), which is not yet officially supplied to Russia, but has already gained popularity in Japan and Europe. The engineers are here Nissan they used a trick: while maintaining the external dimensions, they optimized the internal space, increasing the trunk volume to 500 liters in standard mode and up to 1100 liters with seats folded. This became possible thanks to the new platform CMF-C and modified body geometry.

It is important to understand that the figures given are maximum values, which are achieved under ideal conditions. In reality, trunk volume is affected by:

• 🔧Seating configuration (5 or 7 seats)
• 📦 Availability of additional equipment (subwoofer, spare tire)
• 🚗 Ceiling height (in some versions it is reduced due to the panoramic roof)
• 🛠️ Equipment (top versions can be equipped with storage boxes under the floor)

Real trunk volume: what owners say

Official data is good, but what is it like in practice? We analyzed owner reviews Nissan Serena on Russian forums and social networks to understand how much the actual trunk volume corresponds to the declared one. It turned out that the difference can reach 15-20% to a lesser extent.

For example, the owner Serena C26 2015 release complete Highway Star notes: “The passport says 480 liters, but if you put travel bags for three people, there is no space left. You have to fold the third row of seats, then everything you need for a family of five for a week fits.” Another user complains about the awkward shape of the trunk: “The height is normal, but the width narrows towards the wheel arches - large suitcases have to be placed diagonally.”

Interesting observations came from the owners of seven-seat versions: “With the third row of seats, the trunk turns into a symbolic compartment for a couple of bags from the supermarket. We use it only for short trips around the city, and for long trips we fold the back row.” At the same time, those who chose the five-seater layout note that there is enough space even for large household appliances: “We managed to transport the washing machine by first removing the back door.”

⚠️ Attention: In versions with all-wheel drive (4WD) trunk volume may be less by 30-50 liters due to the transmission tunnel and additional units.

Reviews about Serena C25 - the most common generation in the secondary market. Here are typical comments:

• 👍 "With the second and third row seats folded, it was possible to transport furniture from IKEA (sofa and two wardrobes)"
• 👎 "Under the trunk floor there is no full-fledged space for a spare tire - only a stowage, which is inconvenient for long trips"
• 💡 "If you remove the trunk floor, there is an additional 10 cm high space for storing tools"
• 🚪 "The side doors open 90°, which makes loading long cargo difficult"

How to Properly Fold Seats for Maximum Space

One of the main advantages Nissan Serena is a flexible interior transformation system. However, not all owners know how to properly fold the seats to maximize trunk space. Let's look at the nuances for different generations.

In models C24 And C25 system is used Flexible Seating System, where the second row can not only be folded, but also moved forward/backward. The third row in these generations folds into the floor, but takes up about 15 cm in height. An important point: before folding the second row, you must remove the headrests - otherwise the mechanism will not work. B Serena C26 the system has become simpler: the second row folds with one handle, and the third row is retracted into a niche under the floor, which allows you to get an almost flat cargo area.

Here are step by step instructions for C26 (the most popular generation in Russia):

Particular attention should be paid to the latches: if they are not latched completely, the seats may open spontaneously while driving. B Serena C27 the system has become even more convenient - it uses an electric drive for the third row (an option on top trim levels), and the second row can be folded even with child seats installed ISOFIX.

⚠️ Attention: When the second row seats are folded, Serena C24/C25 protruding loops of fastenings remain, which can damage the cargo. It is recommended to use protective covers or cardboard spacers.

An interesting life hack from experienced owners: if you need to transport long cargo (for example, boards or sleds), you can fold only one second-row seat, leaving the other two in the working position. This allows you to save space for passengers and simultaneously accommodate cargo up to 2.5 meters.

Comparison with competitors: who is more spacious?

To understand how spacious the trunk is Nissan Serena, let's compare it with the main competitors in the minivan class. For objectivity, let’s take models of a similar price range and generations.

Main rival - Toyota Noah (aka Voxy in some markets). In the latest generation it offers 500 liters trunk in standard configuration and 1850 liters with the seats folded down. This is a little more than Serena C26, but the difference is not critical. However, Noah there is an important advantage - a wider loading area (on 8 cm more between the wheel arches), which makes it easier to place large items.

Another popular competitor is Honda Stepwgn. Here the trunk is more modest: 430 liters in standard mode and 1700 liters when transforming the interior. But Stepwgn wins in terms of ceiling height (at 5 cm more), which allows you to transport higher loads. But Mazda Biante loses Serena in all respects: its trunk holds only 380 liters in standard mode.

Separately worth mentioning Kia Carnival (aka Sedona), which is often considered as an alternative Serena. Despite the fact that this is already a full-size minivan, its trunk in the standard configuration is only 510 liters - slightly more than the Japanese. However, with the seats folded Carnival takes the lead with the indicator 2200 liters against 1800 at Serena.

Interesting fact: in Japan Nissan Serena is positioned as a more family-friendly option, whereas Toyota Noah considered a more “cargo” model. This is reflected in the design of the trunk: Noah a stronger floor and reinforced tailgate hinges designed to withstand frequent loading of heavy items.

Accessories to increase usable space

Even the most spacious trunk can be made even more functional with the right accessories. For Nissan Serena There are many solutions that can help you organize space, protect upholstery and increase load capacity.

Let's start with the basics: protective mats And organizers. For Serena C26 Rubber mats work great WeatherTech with high sides - they prevent the leakage of liquids and protect from dirt. And here is the organizer CargoTote with compartments of different sizes allows you to divide the trunk into zones and avoid clutter. They are also popular mesh dividers, which are attached to the seat backs and prevent the load from shifting during braking.

For those who often transport long cargo, the following will be useful:

• 🚗 Trunk extension (attaches to the towbar and increases the length by 1.2 m)
• 📦 Roof box volume 400-600 l (suitable for models with roof rails)
• 🔧 Folding platform for the second row (turns it into an additional shelf)
• 🛠️ Magnetic holders for instruments on the side walls

Deserves special attention cargo securing systems. B Serena C26 There are four mounting points under the trunk floor (under the lids), but they are often not enough. The kit solves the problem Thule Load Bar with crossbars and tension belts. To transport bicycles, it is better to use a rear bumper holder Saris Bones - it does not require drilling and fits most models Serena.

Don't forget about the little things that make life easier: LED trunk lighting (can be installed with double-sided tape), cordless vacuum cleaner for cleaning, folding table for picnics (attached to the back door). For owners of seven-seat versions it will be useful cover for the third row of seats — it protects the trim when the seats are folded and prevents dust from accumulating in the mechanism.

Common trunk problems and how to avoid them

Like any mechanism, the trunk system Nissan Serena may fail over time. Let's look at the most common problems and ways to prevent them.

In first place - broken rear door hinges. In models C24 And C25 this is a real scourge: after 100-150 thousand km, the hinges begin to play, and then completely break. The reason is insufficient lubrication and corrosion. Solution: every 20 thousand km handle loops WD-40 or special lubricant for door hinges. If play has already appeared, you can install a hinge repair kit from Febi or TRW.

The second common problem is jamming of the seat folding mechanism. This is especially true for the second row in Serena C26. The reason for this is dirt and crumbs getting into the guides. To avoid this problem:

Third headache water leaking into trunk. B Serena C25 And C26 The seals of the rear lights and the gas tank flap often leak. This leads to dampness, corrosion and unpleasant odors. Solution: once a year, treat the seals with silicone grease and check the integrity of the drainage tubes (they are located under the plastic trim in the trunk).

⚠️ Attention: In versions with a panoramic roof (Sky Roof) drainage channels often become clogged, which leads to water accumulation in the trunk. Check their cleanliness at least twice a year.

Another trouble - trunk floor creaking. It appears due to the friction of plastic panels on the metal body. The problem is eliminated by installing additional rubber pads (can be cut from an old rug) or treating the contact surfaces Litolom-24. B Serena C27 This problem was solved at the design level - magnetic panel clamps are used here.

Finally, many owners are faced with breakdown of the rear door electric drive (in versions with power liftgate). Most often the microswitch or drive mechanism fails. Repair costs 15-25 thousand rubles, so it’s better to immediately install a protective cover on the drive and avoid sharp slams of the door.

Practical advice for long trips

If you are planning a long trip to Nissan Serena, proper trunk organization will save you time and nerves. Here are some proven tips from experienced travelers.

Firstly, distribute the weight evenly. In minivans, the center of gravity is shifted back, so overloading the trunk can impair handling. Optimal distribution: heavy items (tools, spare tire) closer to the seat backs, light items (clothes, bedding) closer to the rear door. If you are transporting liquids (cans of water, fuel), place them in the middle of the trunk and be sure to secure them with straps.

Secondly, use modular bags. For example, the system Pack-It from Eagle Creek allows you to compactly pack things into cubes of different sizes, which are then tightly packed into the trunk. Thermally insulated boxes are ideal for products. Coleman - they maintain temperature until 12 o'clock and prevent leakage.

The third tip concerns access to frequently used items. Pack a separate bag for what you might need on the road (documents, first aid kit, snacks, wet wipes) and place it under the front passenger's feet or in the seatback pocket. For valuables (laptop, photographic equipment), use the hidden compartment under the trunk floor (available in Serena C26 and newer).

A few additional lifehacks:

• 🚗 Use seat back organizer for small things (chargers, headphones, books)
• 📦 For dirty shoes, take a separate bag with a waterproof bottom
• 🔧 Take it with you trunk repair kit: spare hinges, lubricant, electrical tape
• 🛠️ If you are traveling with children, attach a net for soft toys to the trunk ceiling

Pay special attention securing the load. Even when driving carefully, loose objects can move and damage the trim. Use elastic cords with hooks or special separator nets. It is better to use for transporting animals partition between trunk and interior — it will protect passengers from possible injuries.

Finally, don't forget about security. Never leave valuables in the trunk in plain sight—even a closed minivan can be a target for thieves. Use tinted rear windows (approved by GOST) and an alarm system with a volume sensor. B Serena C26 and newer there is a useful feature: the trunk can be opened only after opening the driver's door, which makes the task more difficult for intruders.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions