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

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Within the first month of release, the Nissan Serena e-POWER recorded over 1,300 bookings and around 250 deliveries nationwide, indicating solid initial demand for a midsized MPV in this price range. April deliveries are now approaching 1,000 units.

Nissan assembler and distributor Edaran Tan Chong Motor introduced the sixth-generation version of a model that has consistently been one of the brand’s strongest performers in the country. The Serena has remained a steady seller in the MPV segment for decades, with 3,838 units sold in 2023 and 3,250 units in 2022, while total sales reached around 3,011 units in 2024, making it one of Nissan’s top-selling models locally.

The early uptake reflects more than a routine model update, as the 2026 Serena shifts from a mild hybrid setup to full Nissan e-POWER.

The e-POWER system is a key driver of that momentum. Because the vehicle is always driven by an electric motor, it delivers smoother acceleration, no gear shifts, and reduced vibration compared to conventional MPVs. The gasoline engine operates only as a generator, allowing Nissan to offer EV-like refinement without requiring charging infrastructure.

“Replacing a class leader is never an easy task, but Nissan has answered the challenge in the shape of the sixth generation all-new Nissan Serena e-POWER. The groundbreaking 100% electric motor-driven e-POWER technology introduces a new dimension to an MPV which has faithfully served families over generations in Malaysia. We are confident that the All-New Nissan Serena e-POWER will once again lead this segment with its dynamic performance and advanced safety technologies,” said Christopher Tan, Executive Vice President of Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd.

Nissan e-POWER is a series hybrid system in which the wheels are driven entirely by an electric motor, delivering instant torque and smoother acceleration, while a 1.4-liter gasoline engine acts only as a generator. This removes the need for external charging while retaining an EV-like driving experience, a key advantage in Malaysia where charging infrastructure is still developing and fuel remains relatively affordable.

This positioning builds on the Serena’s historical strength in Malaysia, where earlier hybrid variants gained traction as among the first electrified MPVs in the segment. The shift to e-POWER refines that formula by improving efficiency and driving refinement without changing user behavior, which remains a critical factor for family buyers.

“As we continue to strengthen Nissan’s brand in Malaysia, today marks an important milestone with the introduction of the All-New Nissan Serena e-POWER. For nearly 70 years, Malaysian customers have placed their trust in Nissan, and this new model reflects our long-term commitment to delivering innovation that enriches their lives. The All-New Nissan Serena e-POWER strengthens our electrified lineup and underscores Malaysia’s importance in our regional strategy,” said Shohei Yamazaki of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

The Serena e-POWER produces 163 PS and 315 Nm of torque through its electric motor, supported by a 1.77 kWh battery and multiple drive modes, including an e-Pedal Step function for single-pedal driving. Fuel consumption is rated at 18.5 km/L under NEDC testing, with a claimed range of up to 1,000 km per tank, reinforcing its role as a long-distance family vehicle.

Ride comfort and refinement have been improved through additional insulation, suspension updates, and aerodynamic tuning aimed at reducing cabin noise and passenger fatigue. Interior upgrades include dual 12.3-inch displays, flexible seating configurations, and the retention of core Serena features such as sliding doors and cabin walk-through access.

Safety features are expanded with a full suite of driver assistance systems, including the introduction of Nissan ProPILOT in Malaysia, integrating adaptive cruise control, lane assistance, and blind spot intervention.

The Serena e-POWER is offered in five variants priced from RM154,800 (about $38,700) to RM179,800 (about $44,900). It comes with a five-year or 100,000 km vehicle warranty and an eight-year or 160,000 km warranty for e-POWER components. Early buyers are offered a RM5,000 rebate (about $1,250) and an accessories package valued at RM8,000 (about $2,000).