Nissan minivan. What should a good and reliable minivan be like? "Nissan": variety and model range of Japanese pickup trucks

produces many variants of vehicles, including both sports and truck models. Minibuses are universal vehicles capable of transporting both cargo and passengers. Nissan has in its lineup minibuses (so-called minibuses), which can also be found on Russian roads. A photo of the Nissan minibus is presented below.

Nissan minibuses: model range :: SYL.ru

The Japanese auto giant Nissan has been presenting its products on the market since 1933, and today the company’s specialists are developing seven model lines with varying degrees of success. Among them, the most successful are crossovers, sports cars and the traditional segment of city cars. The company's commercial vehicles are not so successful, but in this class, individual successful developments appeared at different times. In particular, Nissan minibuses of previous generations are still in demand among various business representatives.

General information about Nissan minibuses

cannot be considered a newcomer to the minibus class. Moreover, in the late 1980s, it became almost a trendsetter in certain characteristics of cars of this type. True, over time, the former glory passed, and the designers paid more attention to other areas. At the moment, for example, sports cars are almost a calling card. Minibuses, the model range of which is also quite wide, are for the most part restyled versions of previous generations. These are cars that were designed for both practical commercial purposes and family use. The manufacturer sought to cover the full range of possibilities that the design form factor of minibuses hides, and in many ways it succeeded.

Today, the company’s product range includes models with diesel and petrol units, all-wheel drive and modern audio preparations, body transformation capabilities and electronic assistants. Nissan minibuses do not lag behind competitive products in terms of design qualities. Suffice it to say that the exteriors of minivans of this brand are regularly included in ratings of the most beautiful cars in this class.

Model "Serena"

The car appeared at the dawn of the formation of the minivan segment and, in some way, laid the basic principles for the development of this class for future generations. In the early 90s, the first versions of the Serena were not as perfect as the subsequent ones: they were distinguished by a central engine, rear-wheel drive and old-fashioned rounded shapes. Nevertheless, even then the company provided its fans with a choice between manual transmission and automatic transmission and two types of power units: diesel and gasoline. In addition, the first generation Nissan Serena minibus provided free seating for 7-8 passengers. Radical changes occurred with the second version in 1999, when the developers provided a transverse engine layout, front-wheel drive and a CVT transmission. In the third generation of 2010, the emphasis was placed on increasing the size of the body, and the latest modifications of 2012-13 were replenished with a hybrid power plant, which extended the life of the model in the modern market.

Model "Urvan"

One of the oldest representatives of the class of Japanese minibuses, production of which began in 1986. The model rolled off the assembly line until 2007, not only as a minibus, but also in the form of a van. The most popular version was the machine with a length of 4790 mm, a width of 1690 mm and a height of 1990 mm. At the same time, the ground clearance was 190 mm. The latest restyling expanded the car's glazing area and provided it with a chrome radiator grille and side moldings. Already in the basic configuration, the Japanese offered power steering, air conditioning, a decent-sounding audio system and mudguards, which added to the popularity of the Nissan Urvan model. The minibus was also in demand due to its good dynamics. However, the outdated passive safety system, rear-wheel drive and manual gearbox did not allow the car to survive to this day, albeit in an updated guise.

Model "Elgrand"

Another successor to the minivan concept, production of which took place in the late 1990s. At the same time, a fashion for original exteriors of minibuses emerged, in which the Elgrand model also succeeded. Although the car was aimed at the domestic market, capturing the share of Chinese motorists, its merits were appreciated far beyond the intended sales area. Actually, the main advantages of the model can be reduced to a successful design, as well as inexpensive and tastefully executed interior decoration. In terms of technical characteristics, the Nissan Elgrand minibus is an average offering by general standards. Nevertheless, the model is still on sale today - the 2014 version attracts car enthusiasts with its high-tech multimedia capabilities, wide options and generally good quality, for which Japanese cars have always been famous.

Model "Vanette"

This model is also known to specialists as the small Mazda Bongo truck. To draw such a radical parallel, even to the point of identity, would, of course, be wrong, but the fact remains: Nissan engineers at least used the base from the successful development of their colleagues in the shop. And this was justified, since a fairly effective and reliable working “stuffing” was implemented on the platform of this single-volume truck. There was a choice of all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive, two types of gearboxes and both fuel engines, one of which (diesel) was replaced with a turbo unit. The “upper” design of the Nissan Vanette was also highly appreciated. The minibus was designed for two roof configurations with one or two sliding doors. The weak point of this model was the interior decoration. Many complained about the use of cheap materials, which is not typical for this company. And yet, this did not stop practical users focused solely on the commercial benefits of the car.

Model "Caravan"

The first version of the car was shown in 2011 at the Tokyo Motor Show. The model immediately attracted attention thanks to three different classes of economical engines, a spacious interior and cargo compartment. The average engine power is 120-130 hp. pp., while the consumption does not exceed 12 liters in a combined cycle. We can say that the minibus turned out to be universal even by the standards of an already practical class. Today you can order a modification with a 5-speed gearbox or a version with automatic transmission that supports electronic control. Moreover, automatic transmission is available for any configuration, regardless of engine type - gasoline or diesel. As for the carrying capacity, it varies from 950 to 1250 kg - this already depends on the version of the machine. The specialists also took care of the exterior of this Nissan car model. The minibus, the photo of which is presented below, demonstrates a completely modern design of the 2015 generation.

Model "Clipper"

The development of this model was carried out by the Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance. Two different versions of the model entered the market - passenger and cargo. Moreover, both versions are characterized by compact dimensions, at least by the standards of the minibus segment. The Clipper is also distinguished by a decorative radiator grille, high control ergonomics and the ability to change the seat configuration. For example, if you fold all the seats, then, at first glance, a small interior forms a trunk, the length of which will be 170 cm. In the passenger version, the sliding door is equipped with convenient handrails and thresholds, which allows you to comfortably board and disembark. In the latest versions, Nissan Clipper minibuses are equipped with an ABS safety system, all-wheel drive and a proprietary tuning package, which includes a roof spoiler and a “wooden” console trim. In order to increase security in terms of protection against burglary, the developers also provided special reinforcement for door locks.

Model NV

One of the most notable models of recent years, which is also available in cargo and passenger versions. First of all, the car’s power plant deserves attention. The engine range includes a 5.6-liter gasoline engine from the Endurance V8 line. Its power potential is 375 hp. With. In addition, with high power, the motor is economical. According to the developers, it is 8% more economical compared to previous flagship V8 engines. The transmission also distinguished itself - Nissan minibuses of this model are equipped with a choice of either a reinforced 7-band automatic transmission or a 5-band automatic transmission that has become standard. Mechanics are not provided for NV. The car was released recently, in 2016, and, most likely, in the coming years it will attract the greatest attention of Nissan designers in this class.

Conclusion

The manufacturer is not so popular in this minibus segment compared to Italian and German competitors. In fact, Fiat is firmly in the leadership position here. Although recently this configuration has been diluted with American cars and individual Mercedes developments. And yet the Japanese have something to attract consumers. For example, used Nissan minibuses are considered the most affordable in price compared to products from large first-class manufacturers. In particular, on the Russian market the most popular model described is “Elgrand”. A used 1999 version can be purchased for 350-400 thousand in good condition. Of course, newer cars with no mileage are many times more expensive, but their capabilities are incomparably richer.

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Nissan minibus models

In addition to the Primastar model, the company produces the no less popular Nissan Serena model. It also appealed to car enthusiasts. The Nissan Serena minibus has been produced from 1991 to the present. Only front-wheel drive versions are produced, and depending on the body, the car has from five to eight seats. The first generation was presented to the public in 1990 and went on sale a year later. Produced until 1999.

Due to its low speed, the car was included in the anti-rating of the British publication Auto Express. This Nissan minibus was included in the top ten worst cars of the last 25 years. This model was equipped with gasoline and diesel engines. Transmission is a four-speed automatic. The car had both all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive.

The second generation received an updated design, as well as a new sliding door, and the automatic transmission lever was moved to the dashboard. The ability to pass from the driver's seat to the rear rows was also added. The model was equipped with both diesel and gasoline engines. A new transmission was added - a CVT. Drive - full or front-wheel drive.

The second generation was replaced by the third generation in 2005, and the fourth in 2010. The latest generation is the fifth, produced since 2016. It can be called the most successful, since the car received a more pleasant design, as well as technical characteristics.

The Nissan-Primastar minibus has been produced since 2002. This vehicle is primarily a cargo vehicle. Structurally, it is similar to the Renault-Traffic model. The latest generations are designed for both cargo and passenger transportation. Externally, the car resembles most minibuses with the exception of some individual elements. The roof overhead has a small protrusion, which slightly spoils the appearance of the car.

There are many interior design options, including rows of seats behind each other, as well as two rows facing each other. In this configuration, there is a small table between the rows.

Brief overview of three family car models

The Nissan concern began its history back in 1933, since then it has constantly developed and increased the number of products. Today, the mentioned company is a leader in the automotive industry. And the subject of our conversation will be the so-called “family” car of the Nissan brand - a minivan. The photos below will help the reader form his opinion about this class of Japanese cars.

Nissan Vanette

The first Nissan minivan we'll look at is the Vanette. He made his debut back in 1979. It was produced in two variations: in the form of a van and a minibus with a capacity of up to 8 people. This made the vehicle very convenient for large families. The model featured a rounded design, frame chassis, and independent front suspension. The mass of the Nissan Vanette was just over 2.5 tons, and its load capacity was 700 kg. The car was equipped with carburetor engines of 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 liters with a power of 69-82 hp. With. and a two-liter diesel unit with 63 horsepower. The Nissan Vanette Practic model was equipped with a 2.4-liter injection engine (101 hp).

In 1986, the company introduced the second generation of the machine in question. The new Nissan Vanette minivan was distinguished by angular body contours and a spring rear suspension. The power units have been replenished with one turbodiesel (2 liter) and three petrol engines of 1.8, 2.0 and 2.4 liters.

And already in the 1990s, the third generation Nissan Vanette minivan was released. These models had a modern layout (single-volume), but the drive remained rear-wheel drive. The car's engine, together with the front axle, was moved forward of the cabin, resulting in an ideal weight distribution - 50 x 50%.

Nissan Prairie

Another example worthy of attention is the Nissan Prairie minivan. This model debuted in 1982; it is considered the first all-terrain station wagon with all-wheel drive and a transforming interior. This five-seater car greatly surprised car enthusiasts with its characteristics. We can say that the appearance of the new product was a harbinger of a boom in minivan-type vehicles. In many characteristics and technical solutions, Prairie was ahead of its time. The second generation Nissans (1988) already resembled minivans in a classic, modern form. The model has increased significantly in size, and the car's design has become more modern. The engine range is represented by an economical four-cylinder engine with a volume of 2 liters and a more powerful unit with a volume of 2.4 liters. An all-wheel drive modification of the car was also provided.

In August 1995, the third generation Nissan Prairie debuted. The shape of the body was significantly changed: raising the front part gave the car solidity and at the same time increased the level of safety for the driver and passengers in a frontal collision. The outlines of the rear of the minivan have also changed, and as a result, the volume of the interior has also increased. But already in 2002, “Prairie” was discontinued.

Nissan Serena

Our review would be incomplete without a description of such a model as the Nissan Serena minivan. This is a full-size family car with all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. It was released in 1990 in Japan, and from the end of 1992 its production began in Spain. Nissan Serena has a high body – 1840 mm, its width is 1710 mm, and its length is 4315 mm. Despite the provided 5 seats, the car can accommodate eight people (albeit with difficulty), however, in this case you can forget about the trunk. The interior of the cabin is quite simple and modest. The line of power units is represented by gasoline engines with a displacement of 1.6 liters and a capacity of 97 hp. With. and 2.0 l with 126 hp. and a two-liter diesel engine with 66 horsepower. In 1995, the designers added another 2.3 liter diesel unit with a power of 135 hp. With. The minivan was equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, with an automatic transmission available as an option. The maximum speed of the car is 135-170 km/h (depending on the power unit). In 2000, a new generation of Serena was launched. The car featured a new, more aggressive design. The minivan retained its classic layout, but at the same time gained an independent suspension and became 200 mm longer. All models are offered in a five-door version with sliding doors.

Here we briefly reviewed the history of the creation and development of minivans. In some ways, these cars were ahead of their time, but in others there were shortcomings. Be that as it may, a car with the Nissan brand has always meant reliability and good quality.

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Nissan minivan - a universal city vehicle

The modern Nissan minivan is a full-size and at the same time compact car with all-wheel or rear-wheel drive. Among the increased capacity station wagons, the model is one of the most compact. The vehicle is equipped with a transverse engine and a slightly aggressive design.

Nissan Elgrand

New models, in the process of improvement, retain their classic layout; they have independent suspension for wheel systems. Like all minivans, this car has 5 body doors; depending on the location of the seats, it can easily accommodate 5-8 people. Nissan minivans are equipped with rear sliding doors, which greatly simplify the exit and entry of visitors. He can be quite free even in cramped conditions.

Important! It is worth knowing that Nissan minivans, despite their fairly high performance, are not very well suited for long trips. This is a city car.

Specifications

The Nissan minivan is quite compact in size. In the standard model, the cabin can accommodate a couple of seats in the front, two paired sofas can be placed in the rear. Medium-sized cars have an additional folding seat at the main door. An important feature of the minivan is that if it has 8 passenger seats, it will no longer be possible to use the trunk. If you are transporting a small load, you will have to limit yourself to 5 places. This suggests that the machine is quite versatile.

This is far from the only advantage of the vehicle; the technical characteristics of the car deserve special attention. Among them are:

Body height	1840 mm
Width	1710 mm
Car length	4315 mm
Cargo capacity	350-700 l
Number of doors	5
Engine power	97-126 hp
Change of oil	Every 5000 km
Maximum speed	150-165 km per hour
Fuel consumption	20 l per 100 km

The car's engine is optimally combined with a 5-speed manual transmission. As an additional service, an automatic transmission can be installed on the car.

Comfort and advantages of using a car

The car interior is simple and modest. The driver's seat is ergonomic, since the seat can be rotated approximately 180 degrees if desired. It is possible to make two adjustments to the car and both of them are mechanical. The steering wheel is small in size and equipped with a hydraulic booster, so the steering process does not require much force. The installed steering button can be adjusted according to the angle of the tilt produced, and the mirrors and windows are ideally adjusted using electric drives.

Nissan Serena

It is possible to install air conditioning in the cabin, but it is only necessary at very high temperatures. In normal mode, coolness in the cabin can be ensured with the help of lowered windows and two hatches. The model is advantageous in that it provides comfort to second-row passengers; they do not experience problems with stretching their legs. The outer row of seats is not so comfortable, as they are folding structures. They are not very convenient to climb on, and there is also nowhere to put your feet. These places are usually given to children.

Conclusion

On the track, Nissan minivans demonstrate high levels of comfort, despite the slight toss of its rear end. The body, even at a relatively low speed, practically does not collapse. Despite this, many still note the car’s slight “jumpiness” and higher noise levels; many can hear the engine running. These are relatively minor shortcomings, which are fully compensated by the numerous advantages of the car.

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Nissan NV200 - 7-seater minivan for a large family

The minivan segment is not yet very popular in Russia. However, automakers have already joined the fight. The Nissan NV200 is one of the best options on the market. Production of this car started in 2009. Externally, it stands out not only for its original design, but also for its small side windows.

Interior

This minivan has a cabin with seating for 7 and is equipped with 3 rows of seats, and they are designed in such a way that when the seats are folded, a spacious and level loading area is formed. On the front axle of the car there are the usual McPherson struts, while at the rear the Japanese have prescribed an equally familiar torsion beam. The Nissan NV200 is equipped with front-wheel drive, as well as front disc and rear drum brakes.

The minivan, even in the base, boasts a generous set of equipment, including electric. ABS and EBD systems, 2 front airbags, an audio system with a CD player and Bluetooth, as well as central locking. For an additional fee, you can additionally order ESP, a rear view camera, side airbags, a modern multimedia system and much more. In particular, the carriage earned 3 stars in Euro NCAP tests.

For Europe, the Japanese equipped their minivan with a 1.5-liter turbodiesel with a direct injection system, the power of which depends on the boost. As a result, it can develop 89 or 100 horsepower and produce 200 or 240 newtons. Also, the Nissan NV200 can be purchased with a 1.6-liter gasoline engine, with distributed fuel injection, designed for 109 horses and 150 Nm of thrust. Transmission options include either 5- or 6-speed manual transmissions or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The car is not yet sold by official dealers in Russia. However, it can be purchased on the secondary market.

Photo of Nissan NV200

Video Nissan NV200

The video will be in German, since the car is not officially delivered to Russia.

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Honda Stepwgn / Honda Stepwagon

The Japanese company Honda does not lag behind its competitors and also produces minibuses. One of the minibus models of this company is the Honda Stepwgn. The production of the minibus began in 1995, the history of the model includes 5 generations. Most Honda Stepwgn are produced with right-hand drive, but these minibuses also exist with left-hand drive. This minibus is a passenger option and is designed to transport people over long distances.

Nissan is confidently one of the ten largest automakers; it ranks eighth in the global ranking, and third among Japanese companies, after Toyota and Honda. Since 1999, Nissan and Renault have merged into the Renault-Nissan Alliance, thanks to which the positions of both companies have grown significantly.

Read also: Connection diagram for running lights

We have already talked quite a lot on our website Vodi.su about Nissan sedans, crossovers and hatchbacks. Now let’s focus on minivans and off-road station wagons, of which there are quite a few in the company’s model range. True, not all of them can be bought at official dealer showrooms.

Nissan Primastar

Primastar is a utility van produced in close cooperation with Renault and Opel in 2002. Essentially, this is a rebadged model of the Renault Trafic and Opel Vivaro minibuses, which appeared on the market in 2001. Production of this minivan continues to this day, but it is not possible to buy a new model in Russian car dealerships.

Prices for used cars produced in 2002-2007 depend on the technical condition and range from approximately 250 thousand and above. If you are interested in 2014 models, you can purchase them at foreign car auctions or import them from Germany. In this case, they will cost approximately 22 thousand euros.

The technical parameters of the minivan are as follows:

dCi diesel engines with volume from 1.8 to 2.5 liters, power from 82 to 145 hp;
gasoline engines with a volume of 2 liters and a power of 120 horsepower;
consumption for diesel engines is 8 liters on an average cycle, for gasoline engines - 10 liters;
automatic or manual transmission.

As a family car, this would be a good choice, since the minivan can accommodate up to 9 people. The load capacity reaches 750-800 kg, so it can also be used as a workhorse for doing business.

Nissan Note

The Note is a popular car that falls into the subcompact van category. A new or used car manufactured in 2010-2014 will cost a maximum of 500 thousand rubles.

Capacity - 5 people.

The car is equipped with three types of engines:

1.4 liters, gasoline, 88 hp, consumption - 6.4 in the combined cycle;
1.6 liter gasoline, 101 hp, consumption - 7.2 liters;
1.5 diesel, 86 hp, consumption - 4.5 liters.

The car has a fairly high level of comfort for a budget car, although according to the results of Euro NCAP crash tests it earned only 4 stars for passenger safety and 3 stars for a child.

Front-wheel drive, transmission: either 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. The car was created exclusively for normal roads; the ground clearance of 145 millimeters does not allow for any serious off-road driving. Load capacity is within 450 kilograms.

variety and model range of Japanese pickup trucks :: SYL.ru

Many people want to buy a practical car like a minivan. “Nissan” is the concern that produces really good, high-quality cars that appeal to many people. What makes them specially different from the rest, and what are their advantages? This should be discussed in more detail.

NV200

This Nissan minivan has been produced since 2009. This model is unusual. It was named “2010 Van of the Year” by Professional Van and Light Truck magazine. Potential buyers are offered five different engine types to choose from. The first option is a 1.5 liter naturally aspirated petrol engine. But such models are sold exclusively in Indonesia. The second option is a 2-liter, also gasoline, it is installed under the hood of North American cars. The third version is distinguished by a 1.5-liter turbodiesel power unit with 110 and 90 hp. With. It is driven by a 6- or 5-speed manual transmission. You can choose from a 4-speed automatic transmission or a continuously variable transmission.

This Nissan minivan is available in several versions. The first is a 2-seater truck. The second is a cargo-passenger one, for five people. The third version is a seven-seat passenger. It is available in standard configuration, as well as with additional trim or with EVALLA equipment. The cargo version features hinged rear doors, while the passenger version has a lift-up solid door. The cargo-passenger version has all of the above. And this is its main advantage.

Nissan Livina

This Nissan minivan appeared in 2006. And its first generation was released until 2013. It is interesting that this is a so-called compact minivan, and not an ordinary one. The Nissan Grand Livina has become especially popular. This is a car with 7 seats, which can be equipped with different engines. Here is their full list: 1.5 S, 1.5 SV, 1.5 XV, 1.5 Ultimate and 1.5 & 1.8.

In 2011, this car was modernized. The radiator grille has been transformed, new wheels, turn signals, and side moldings have appeared. If we talk about the interior, there have been few changes. And they all touched only on the shade of the upholstery.

Nissan Presage

This car also belongs to the category of Nissan minivans with left-hand drive. These cars have been produced since 1998. The debut was successful, the car quickly became popular. It was based on the SS-L platform, but the rear suspension used a multi-link system with transverse and trailing arms. The rear side doors were made hinged - just like the European versions. The standard equipment cannot be called poor - the car was equipped with xenon headlights, a navigation system with a wide 7-inch LCD display, and a DVD player. There was also an electrical package, plus wood-like trim. Plus, one cannot fail to note the leather interior, but this is only on order.

The power unit with 16 valves and 4 cylinders is located transversely at the front. Its volume is 2.4 liters and its power is 150 liters. With. The car accelerates to a maximum of 170 km/h. By the way, this model can operate under the control of both automatic and manual transmissions. We must admit that this is a rather powerful Nissan minivan. The range of pickup trucks boasts different high-quality and durable vehicles, and this one is one of the best. Its most powerful engine is a three-liter V6 with a power of 220 hp. With. and a maximum of 180 km/h. And this is a good indicator for a minivan.

Nissan Serena

And another bright representative of the model range. The Nissan Serena minivan first appeared in 1990, but it is still being produced to this day. If we talk about compact vans with increased capacity, then this model is the smallest.

The interior of the car is modest and simple. The driver's seat can be rotated 180 degrees and adjusted only in two directions. The front panel can be safely called unpretentious and practical. The steering wheel is compact, and thanks to the installed hydraulic booster, it can be controlled with ease. The column, by the way, can be adjusted in angle, and the mirrors, like the glass, are equipped with an electronic drive. Visibility is also good. The model is also equipped with air conditioning.

What about technical specifications? The cars are equipped with R4 engines running on gasoline. Interestingly, these units are equipped with an electronic injection system. The engine capacity is 1.6 and 2 liters, and their power varies from 97 to 126 hp. With. There is also a diesel, economical option - also 2-liter, but with 66 liters. With. The engines operate under the control of a 5-speed manual transmission, but if the buyer wishes, the model can be equipped with an automatic transmission.

Nissan Caravan Elgrand

Finally, I would like to say a few words about this car. The first generation was produced from 1997 to 2002, and the second - after this time period to this day. Initially, representatives of the 2nd series were available only with 3.5-liter engines, and gasoline ones. But then a 2.5 liter unit appeared. The only available transmission is a 5-speed automatic, with a selector lever located on the steering column.

This car also boasts a sliding side door equipped with an electric closer and athermal glass. In addition, it is worth noting the available rear view camera, the image of which is projected onto the color display. And for passengers there are two color TVs. So the car is comfortable and practical, and this is the main thing for a minivan.

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Nissan Caravan / Nissan Caravan

The minibus of the Japanese auto giant Nissan is named Caravan. This car belongs to the mid-size models. Produced since 1973, the minibus has five generations in its history, mainly right-hand drive models are produced, but there are also left-hand drive minibuses. This car is available in standard and extended wheelbase. The standard version of the Nissan Caravan is 4.69 m long, the extended version of this minibus is 4.99 m long. This minibus is produced in cargo, cargo-passenger and passenger versions, which makes it possible to use the minibus not only for personal purposes, but also for commercial activities.

The minibus interior is equipped with air conditioning, an audio system, and the doors are equipped with power windows.

The new Nissan Serena minivan became the brand's first model with autopilot - Autoreview

Not a supercar or even a business sedan, but an ordinary family minivan became the first production Nissan with the ProPilot system, which takes control of the car. So far, the Serena can only drive on autopilot on the highway at speeds between 30 and 100 km/h and only in a pre-selected lane. The electronics are activated by a button on the steering wheel, controls the steering wheel, accelerator and brakes, monitors the road situation using a mono camera under the windshield and can slow the car down to a complete stop. But if the speed drops below 30 km/h, then subsequent acceleration falls on the driver’s shoulders.

A similar ProPilot system will appear on the updated Nissan Qashqai crossover next year; in 2018 it should learn how to change lanes, and by 2022 it should be able to navigate city traffic and pass intersections.

As for Serena herself, the new fifth-generation model is a deep modernization of the previous single-volume car of the 2010 model. The dimensions (4.7 m in length), the characteristic shape of the side glazing, and the doorways have been preserved. But the strength structure of the body has been revised: the front roof pillars are made thinner for better visibility (but not at the expense of strength), and the rear part is strengthened. On the front end there is a V-shaped radiator grille characteristic of modern Nissans and separate “eyebrows” of turn signals.

The front panel, although it retained the same architecture (even the glove compartment in front of the driver remained), but became more modern and attractive. The electronic instrument cluster houses a color screen that displays the tachometer or ProPilot system data. The display of the media system has become noticeably larger, but control of the main functions, fortunately, remains analog - using keys and knobs.

The seats of the first and second rows are made using Zero Gravity technology, like Teana’s: with optimal rigidity and body weight distribution. The third row, although designed for three, is still a simple banquette. Access to the rear seats is facilitated by electric sliding doors and a system for opening them with a foot movement under the bottom of the car.

The purely petrol Serena with a two-liter naturally aspirated engine (150 hp, 200 Nm) is now offered only in the simplest configuration. All other variants are powered by the S-Hybrid powertrain, which has been carried over from the previous model. The same two-liter naturally aspirated engine works in tandem with a variator, and is helped by a tiny electric motor, the main advantage of which is not power (2.6 hp), but traction (48 Nm): it works in the first seconds when starting from a standstill, reducing the time response to pressing the gas pedal. For an additional fee - all-wheel drive. The steering mechanism has become sharper and more precise, and different shock absorbers have been installed.

The new Serena has a rich list of options: an interior mirror with a full-area display (by pressing a button you can display the image from the rear view camera), leather interior, automatic braking and lane marking systems (working independently of the autopilot), parking assistant, all-round cameras and much more. The Highway Star version with a more aggressive appearance and expanded equipment also remains in service.

Nissan Serena Highway Star

In Japan, the Nissan Serena ranks second in the popularity rating of full-size minivans: 62 thousand cars were sold last year, ahead of only the Toyota Voxy (93 thousand). And in total, since 1991, more than 1.5 million Serenas of four generations have been produced. The new model will hit the Japanese market in August at a price starting from 28.5 thousand dollars. But exports are only to other “right-hand drive” countries like Malaysia or Indonesia, as well as to Hong Kong.

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