Four years after its global debut, the C28-generation Nissan Serena has received a facelift in Japan. In typical Japanese fashion, the update is evolutionary rather than radical, embracing the Kaizen (continuous improvements) philosophy with improved tech, revised specifications, and subtle design updates.
At a glance, the most notable change is the “V-Motion” front grille. Compared to before, it now features a vertically slanted mesh pattern paired with vertical daytime running lights (DRLs) that further emphasise the V-shaped design, replacing the previous horizontal elements. Three new exterior colours have also been added, including Moonbow Blue, Aqua Mint, and Deep Ocean Blue.
Moving inside, the new facelifted models bring in the latest NissanConnect infotainment system powered by Google. The system now supports Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play. It also supports the “Forgotten Alert” feature, which sends driver smartphone notifications if they have forgotten to lock the doors, turn off the lights, etc. There’s also a “Remote Photo Shot” service, which allows drivers to monitor their vehicle’s surroundings from a distance.
In response to customer feedback, Nissan has added an “e-Pedal Step Previous Mode Memory” function, preventing the need to reconfigure the system on every drive. There’s also a new “rear-seat reminder”, which alerts the driver after the engine is switched off if items may have been left inside the cabin.
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The Nissan Serena facelift also gains an updated Intelligent Around View Monitor with three new display modes: 3D View, Front Wide View, and Double Side Mirror Closed View. Nissan also notes that a larger 15.6-inch centre infotainment screen is now available as a dealer option.
The Nissan Serena facelift introduces a new “Autech Line” featuring metallic-finish door mirrors, exclusive 16-inch aluminium wheels in dark metallic silver, and a dark chrome front grille finisher. Inside, it is fitted with a next-generation “Tailor Fit” upholstery and is available in both seven or eight-seater configurations, like most Serena models before it.
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There is also the Multi Box variant that replaces the third row seats with a “large-capacity storage box” that can also be used as a bench or table. It features an opening top and sides, easier loading and internal dividers for more organised storage. As the name suggests, the box is pretty much multi-functional, allowing owners much more flexibility for storage if passenger space is not much of a priority.
Along with these new updated trims, the Nissan Serena facelift will continue to be sold in the X, Highway Star V, and Luxion trims — the latter two featuring a new front grille and aluminium wheels. The Luxion trim, available only on the hybrid variants, adds more premium interior materials for added comfort.
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Powering the facelifted Nissan Serena are familiar drivetrain options, including a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder mild-hybrid engine producing 150 hp and 200 Nm, as well as a 1.4-litre three-cylinder e-Power series hybrid that delivers 163 hp and 315 Nm. While Malaysians are accustomed to the Serena being offered solely in front-wheel-drive (FWD) form, Japanese-market models are also available with all-wheel drive (AWD), likely catering to snowy regions.
In Japan, the facelifted Serena is priced from JPY2,785,200 (approx. RM73k) for the base eight-seat X grade, rising to JPY5,209,600 (approx. RM136k) for the flagship seven-seat e-Power Luxion variant equipped with automatic power sliding steps.
Meanwhile in Malaysia, the pre-facelift Serena was previewed earlier this month with the 1.4-litre e-Power powertrain. It is scheduled to make its local debut in Q1 2026, with local assembly (CKD) planned at the Edaran Tan Chong Motor plant in Serendah.
READ MORE: All-new C28 Nissan Serena e-Power previewed in Malaysia – to launch as CKD model in Q1 2026
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