Nissan Serena 2017: Honest Review & Expert Insights

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Nissan Serena 2017: Honest Review & Expert Insights

Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the Nissan Serena 2017. If you're in the market for a reliable and spacious family MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), the Serena might just be the ticket. We'll cover everything from its performance and interior to its tech features and overall reliability. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the Nissan Serena 2017

The Nissan Serena 2017 is a popular choice in the MPV segment, especially for families needing that extra space and versatility. This model year brought some notable enhancements and refinements to keep it competitive. Known for its comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and practical design, the Serena aims to make daily commutes and long road trips a breeze. Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's set the stage with some context. The Serena has been around for a while, steadily evolving to meet the changing needs of modern families. The 2017 model represents a sweet spot in its lifecycle, offering a blend of modern features and proven reliability. It's not just about getting from point A to point B; it's about doing it comfortably and safely, with room for everyone and everything you need to bring along. Throughout this review, we’ll be focusing on what makes the 2017 Serena stand out, its strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately, whether it’s a good fit for your lifestyle. We'll explore how it stacks up against its competitors, like the Toyota Noah and Honda Stepwgn, and what you should consider before making a purchase decision. Whether you're a seasoned MPV owner or new to the world of family haulers, this review is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of the Nissan Serena 2017.

Performance and Engine

When it comes to the Nissan Serena 2017's performance, you’ll find it’s powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that provides adequate power for most driving situations. It's not a sports car, but it gets the job done reliably. The engine is paired with a smooth CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which prioritizes fuel efficiency and seamless acceleration. Let's talk numbers: the engine churns out around 147 horsepower and 210 Nm of torque. This might not sound like much, but remember, the Serena is designed for practicality, not racing. In real-world driving, the Serena feels responsive enough for city driving and comfortable on the highway. The CVT does a great job of keeping the engine in its optimal power range, ensuring you're not straining the engine unnecessarily. One of the standout features of the Serena is its e-Power hybrid system, available on some models. This system uses a gasoline engine to charge a battery, which then powers an electric motor that drives the wheels. This results in a driving experience that feels more like an electric vehicle, with instant torque and smooth acceleration. Plus, it significantly improves fuel economy. The handling is decent, too. The Serena is easy to maneuver in tight spaces, thanks to its light steering and good visibility. The suspension is tuned for comfort, so you can expect a smooth ride even on bumpy roads. Of course, there's some body roll in corners, but that's to be expected in a vehicle of this size and type. Overall, the performance of the Nissan Serena 2017 is well-suited to its intended purpose. It's not the fastest or most exciting car on the road, but it's reliable, efficient, and comfortable – exactly what you need in a family MPV.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the Nissan Serena 2017, you'll immediately notice the focus on space and practicality. The cabin is designed to be airy and comfortable, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, making long journeys a pleasure. The Serena typically offers seating for up to eight passengers, with a flexible seating configuration that allows you to customize the interior to suit your needs. The second-row seats can slide forward and backward, creating more legroom or cargo space as needed. The third-row seats can be folded down to create a flat loading area, perfect for hauling larger items. The materials used in the cabin are generally of good quality, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas. The dashboard is well-organized and easy to use, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, with a touchscreen display that provides access to navigation, audio, and other functions. Storage is another strong point of the Serena. There are plenty of cubbies, pockets, and cupholders throughout the cabin, so you'll never be short of places to stash your belongings. The glovebox is also surprisingly spacious, and there's a large center console for storing larger items. One of the highlights of the Serena's interior is its excellent visibility. The large windows and high seating position give you a commanding view of the road, making it easy to navigate in traffic and park in tight spaces. The Serena also offers a range of comfort features, such as automatic climate control, power windows and mirrors, and a premium audio system. Some models also come with features like leather seats, a sunroof, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Technology and Features

The technology and features in the Nissan Serena 2017 are quite impressive, especially when you consider its focus on family practicality. The infotainment system is user-friendly, featuring a touchscreen display that integrates navigation, audio controls, and smartphone connectivity. It supports Bluetooth, allowing hands-free calling and audio streaming. Some models also include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it even easier to connect your smartphone. Safety is a priority in the Serena, and it comes equipped with a range of advanced safety features. These include anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and a suite of airbags. Higher trim levels may also include features like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. One of the standout tech features of the Serena is its ProPilot Assist system, available on some models. This system combines adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist to help you stay centered in your lane and maintain a safe following distance. It's not a fully autonomous system, but it can significantly reduce driver fatigue on long journeys. The Serena also offers a 360-degree camera system, which provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings. This makes it much easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. Other notable features include keyless entry and start, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing wipers. Some models also come with a power sliding door, which can be opened and closed with the touch of a button. Overall, the technology and features in the Nissan Serena 2017 are well-rounded and cater to the needs of modern families. It's not the most cutting-edge car on the market, but it offers a good balance of convenience, safety, and connectivity.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a significant factor for MPV buyers, and the Nissan Serena 2017 doesn’t disappoint. The standard 2.0-liter engine offers respectable mileage, but the real star is the e-Power hybrid variant. The standard 2.0L engine typically delivers around 12-14 km/l in mixed driving conditions. This is quite reasonable for a vehicle of its size and weight. However, if you're looking to maximize fuel economy, the e-Power hybrid is the way to go. The e-Power system uses a small gasoline engine to charge a battery, which then powers an electric motor that drives the wheels. This results in a driving experience that feels more like an electric vehicle, with instant torque and smooth acceleration. The e-Power Serena can achieve fuel economy figures of around 18-20 km/l, which is a significant improvement over the standard engine. This can save you a lot of money on fuel costs over the long term, especially if you do a lot of city driving. Several factors contribute to the Serena's fuel efficiency. The CVT transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power range, while the aerodynamic design reduces drag. The e-Power system also incorporates regenerative braking, which captures energy during deceleration and uses it to recharge the battery. To get the best possible fuel economy from your Serena, it's important to drive smoothly and avoid harsh acceleration and braking. Regular maintenance, such as keeping your tires properly inflated and changing your oil on time, can also help to improve fuel efficiency. Overall, the Nissan Serena 2017 offers competitive fuel economy for its class, especially the e-Power hybrid model. If you're looking for a fuel-efficient MPV that doesn't compromise on space or comfort, the Serena is definitely worth considering.

Reliability and Maintenance

When considering a family vehicle like the Nissan Serena 2017, reliability and maintenance are key concerns. Generally, the Serena has a good reputation for reliability, but like any car, it's not without its potential issues. The 2.0-liter engine is known to be robust and dependable, but it's important to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure it stays in good condition. This includes changing the oil and filters on time, as well as inspecting the spark plugs, belts, and hoses. The CVT transmission is generally reliable, but it's important to use the correct type of transmission fluid and change it at the recommended intervals. Some owners have reported issues with the CVT, such as jerking or hesitation, so it's worth keeping an eye on. The e-Power hybrid system is relatively new, but so far, it seems to be holding up well. However, it's important to have the hybrid system serviced by a qualified technician, as it requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Regular maintenance for the Serena is relatively straightforward and affordable. Parts are readily available, and there are plenty of qualified mechanics who can work on it. However, it's always a good idea to get a pre-purchase inspection before buying a used Serena, to make sure there are no hidden problems. Some common issues to look out for include worn suspension components, leaky seals, and electrical problems. It's also worth checking the service history to see if the car has been well-maintained. Overall, the Nissan Serena 2017 is a reliable vehicle that should provide years of trouble-free service, provided it's properly maintained. By keeping up with regular maintenance and addressing any issues promptly, you can help to ensure that your Serena stays in top condition.

Pricing and Value

Let’s talk pricing and value of the Nissan Serena 2017. The original MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) for the 2017 Serena varied depending on the trim level and options. However, as a used car, its value has depreciated, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The price of a used 2017 Serena will depend on several factors, including its condition, mileage, and location. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $15,000 to $25,000 for a well-maintained example. When evaluating the value of a used Serena, it's important to consider its features and equipment. Higher trim levels will typically command a higher price, but they also offer more amenities and conveniences. It's also worth comparing the Serena to its competitors, such as the Toyota Noah and Honda Stepwgn. These vehicles offer similar levels of space and practicality, but they may differ in terms of features, fuel economy, and reliability. One of the key factors that makes the Serena a good value is its spacious interior and flexible seating configuration. It can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers, making it ideal for large families. The Serena also offers a range of safety features, such as anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and a suite of airbags. These features can help to protect you and your passengers in the event of a collision. Overall, the Nissan Serena 2017 offers good value for money, especially as a used car. It's a reliable and practical MPV that's well-suited to the needs of families. By doing your research and shopping around, you can find a Serena that fits your budget and meets your needs.

Pros and Cons

To wrap things up, let's break down the pros and cons of the Nissan Serena 2017 so you can get a clear picture.

Pros:

  • Spacious and comfortable interior
  • Flexible seating configuration
  • Good fuel economy (especially e-Power hybrid)
  • User-friendly technology
  • Available advanced safety features
  • Reliable engine and transmission

Cons:

  • Not the most exciting car to drive
  • Some CVT transmission issues reported
  • Body roll in corners
  • e-Power system requires specialized service

Conclusion

So, there you have it – a comprehensive review of the Nissan Serena 2017. Overall, the Serena is a solid choice for families looking for a reliable, spacious, and practical MPV. Its comfortable interior, flexible seating, and good fuel economy make it a great option for daily commutes and long road trips. While it may not be the most exciting car on the road, it offers a good balance of features, reliability, and value. If you're in the market for a used MPV, be sure to give the Nissan Serena 2017 a serious look. Just remember to do your research, get a pre-purchase inspection, and compare it to its competitors to make sure it's the right fit for you. Happy driving!