Nissan releases Serena S-HYBRID in Japan

1 August 2012

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. launched the new Serena S-HYBRID in Japan. The Nissan Serena minivan has taken the Nº1 position in minivan sales in Japan for calendar year 2011, fiscal year 2011 and for the first half of calendar year 2012.

Serena S-HYBRID. Click to enlarge.

The S-HYBRID (which stands for “smart” and “simple” hybrid) powertrain equipped in the Serena is a simple and compact hybrid system. It mounts an upgraded version of the ECO motor used in the existing Serena, and serves as an auxiliary motor to increase power output and power generation capabilities. The hybrid system also adds a sub battery for increased storage capacity, which fits in the current engine compartment.

Mounting the entire hybrid system inside the existing engine space maintains the key features of the Serena, such as largest-in-class cabin and flexible seat configurations. Serena S-HYBRID achieves best-in-class fuel economy of 15.2 km/L (35.8 mpg US, 6.6 L/100km) in JC08 mode on 2WD. It is is the only model in its class to be exempted from Japan’s automobile acquisition and weight taxes.

In conjunction with the launch of the Serena S-HYBRID, all non-hybrid Nissan Serena grades will introduce new features such as standard Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) 3-point seatbelts for the center seats in the 2^nd and 3^rd rows, and fuel-efficient tires that reduce rolling resistance for improved fuel efficiency. The One-Touch Auto Slide Door function for the sliding door on the left side of the vehicle, requested by many customers, is now standard on the Highway Star grades (2WD/4WD).

Thanks to the improved fuel economy, 4WD grades with the Idling Stop system will be newly eligible for a 75% reduction of both automobile acquisition and weight taxes, while the 20S grades (2WD/4WD) will now enjoy a 50% reduction in both taxes.