KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 — The locally assembled (CKD) version of the Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is here after being introduced here in 2013 as a fully imported model (CBU). What is different is that the CKD model is a face-lift version with minor changes to the front face, and there are two variants of slightly differing specifications. The top-of-the-range model called the Highway Star Premium is retailed at the same price as the previously imported version, at RM149,500, while the lower specification model, the Highway Star, is RM10,700 lower, retailing at RM138,800. Both are on-the-road prices based on private individual registration, inclusive of insurance.

The CKD Nissan Serena S-Hybrids were introduced to the media in a simple ceremony held at the Strand in Kota Damansara, Petaling Jaya this morning after which the invited media were invited to check out the vehicles through a short drive from the Strand to Melaka and back. Since most of the media had tested the imported model at some time or other when it was launched last year, the drive was just to re-confirm that the CKD versions perform just as well, and that fact was established without any ado.

From an aesthetic point of view, the face-lifted version certainly looks much better with its new face, which takes inspiration from the even more premium Nissan Elgrand. New features include a new chrome plated front grille, LED headlamps, a new front bumper with integrated fog lights, a new bonnet and front fender design. At the rear, LED combination lamps are standard, while new side mouldings and 16-inch alloy wheels complete the picture.

The Premium Highway Star gets additional roof spoilers and door visors, V-Kool Elite security, Armorcoat and Solar Gard Tinting.

Whilst the imported version came with just a tyre repair kit, the new CKD version now has a space saver spare mounted in the under body.

The Nissan Serena S-Hybrid is equipped with a 2.0 litre Nissan MR20DD 4-cylinder direct injection engine. Drive is to the front wheels through Nissan’s latest generation XTRONIC CVT with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC). The engine delivers 147 PS of power and 210Nm of torque peaking at 4,400 rpm.

In addition, the hybrid system works through the alternator that serves to charge the normal battery as well as an auxiliary battery. The auxiliary battery provides assistance during acceleration by reversing the current to drive the alternator this providing a small amount of boost to the engine’s normal power. The S-Hybrid system also features an Idling Start-Stop system.

Fuel consumption is mooted at 15.2 kilometres per litre based on the Japan JC08 test cycle — it is theoretically possible to achieve these numbers under certain conditions, and the actual achievements could be affected by heavy traffic conditions or heavy acceleration. While driving on the highway, our team reset the fuel consumption monitor on the on-board display, and while cruising at between 100 to 120 kmh, we achieved readings between 12.5 to 13.0 kilometres per litre; pushing it harder brought the numbers down by about 30 percent. However, we are happy to note that the Nissan S-hybrid does deliver quite a decent fuel consumption considering its size and weight.

Safety features include dual SRS airbags, ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS).

A total of five colours are available, including two new ones, Garnet Red and Graphite Blue.

The Serena S-Hybrid local variants are face-lift versions of the imported model introduced last year. — Picture by YS Khong