2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid: A Comprehensive Review

Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid, a minivan that often gets overlooked in the crowded automotive market. But trust me, there's a lot to unpack here, especially if you're looking for a family-friendly vehicle that's also pretty darn efficient. This review will cover everything from its hybrid system and driving experience to its interior, technology, and overall value. Buckle up, because we're about to explore what makes this minivan tick!

Unpacking the Hybrid Powertrain of the 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid

Alright, let's start with what makes this Serena a hybrid. The 2017 model utilizes Nissan's 'S-Hybrid' system. Now, don't get this confused with a full-blown hybrid like a Toyota Prius. The S-Hybrid is a mild-hybrid setup, which means it doesn't have the capability to run solely on electric power for extended periods. Instead, it uses an electric motor to assist the gasoline engine, primarily boosting acceleration and improving fuel economy. The system combines a 1.2-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. The gasoline engine produces around 74 horsepower, while the electric motor contributes a further boost, resulting in a combined power output that makes the Serena feel surprisingly peppy around town. The battery is charged through regenerative braking, which captures energy during deceleration and braking, and stores it for later use. This system is designed to provide seamless transitions between the gasoline engine and the electric motor, so you won't feel any jarring changes in power delivery. One of the main benefits of this hybrid system is its fuel efficiency. The Serena Hybrid achieves impressive fuel economy figures, especially in city driving, where the electric motor assists more frequently. It's a great option if you're looking to save money on gas and reduce your carbon footprint. However, it's worth noting that the S-Hybrid system is not as powerful or as fuel-efficient as some full-hybrid systems. So, while it offers improvements over a standard gasoline engine, it's not a radical departure. The 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid also features an Eco Mode, which further optimizes fuel consumption by adjusting throttle response and air conditioning settings. This is a handy feature to maximize fuel efficiency, especially during long drives. Overall, the hybrid powertrain of the 2017 Nissan Serena is designed to be user-friendly, providing a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. It’s a smart choice for families who want a practical vehicle with a focus on fuel savings, all while contributing to a greener environment.

Driving Experience: How Does the Serena Hybrid Perform?

So, how does the 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid feel on the road? The driving experience is generally smooth and comfortable, with a focus on practicality rather than sporty performance. The Serena is designed primarily for city driving and family duties, and it excels in these areas. The electric motor provides a noticeable boost during acceleration, making it feel more responsive than you might expect from a minivan. The steering is light and easy, making it simple to maneuver in tight spaces, such as parking lots and crowded city streets. Visibility is excellent thanks to the large windows and high seating position, providing a clear view of the road and surroundings. The Serena's suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well. This makes for a relaxed and pleasant ride, even on longer journeys. While the Serena isn't designed for high-speed thrills, it offers sufficient power for everyday driving situations. Overtaking on the highway is manageable, and the hybrid system provides enough torque to handle hills and inclines with ease. One of the standout features of the Serena is its quietness. The hybrid system contributes to a hushed cabin, especially at lower speeds, making for a more peaceful driving experience. The Serena also comes with several driver-assistance features, such as lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring, enhancing safety and making driving easier. These features are particularly useful for families who often transport children. The overall driving experience is user-friendly and enjoyable, focusing on comfort, practicality, and ease of use. It's a vehicle that prioritizes the needs of families, providing a relaxing and stress-free driving experience, so you can enjoy your time on the road.

Interior and Technology: What’s Inside the 2017 Serena?

Let's move inside the 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid. The interior is designed to be practical, spacious, and family-friendly. The highlight of the interior is its spaciousness. The Serena offers ample room for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families with multiple children. The seating arrangement is flexible, with various configurations to accommodate different needs. The second-row seats can slide and recline, providing extra legroom and comfort. The third-row seats are surprisingly spacious, even for adults, and can be folded flat to create a large cargo area. The materials used in the interior are generally of good quality, with a mix of soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics. The design is modern and functional, with a focus on ease of use. The dashboard is well-organized, with all controls within easy reach. The infotainment system includes a touchscreen display, offering features like navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration. It also includes a suite of advanced safety features, like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, enhancing safety and making driving easier. One of the interesting features is the dual-door system, which features a conventional sliding door and a smaller, separate door at the rear. This allows for easier access to the third-row seats and loading/unloading cargo in tight spaces. The Serena also offers a range of storage solutions, including numerous cupholders, door pockets, and a spacious center console. This makes it easy to keep the cabin organized and clutter-free. The interior of the 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid is well-designed and practical, with a focus on passenger comfort and convenience. It's a great place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip. It offers plenty of space, useful technology, and smart features that make it an excellent choice for families.

Safety Features in the 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid

Safety is, obviously, a huge deal, especially when we are talking about family cars. The 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid comes with a range of safety features designed to protect occupants and prevent accidents. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and vehicle dynamic control (VDC), which help maintain stability and control in various driving conditions. It also has airbags throughout the cabin, including front airbags, side airbags, and curtain airbags, providing comprehensive protection in the event of a collision. The Serena also includes several advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to enhance safety. These include: lane departure warning (LDW), which alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane; blind-spot monitoring (BSM), which alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots; and forward collision warning (FCW), which alerts the driver to potential front-end collisions. Some models are also equipped with automatic emergency braking (AEB), which can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a collision. The Serena's safety features are designed to provide a comprehensive level of protection for occupants and help prevent accidents. It's a vehicle that prioritizes safety, making it a reliable choice for families. It’s equipped with both active and passive safety features, aiming to provide peace of mind for drivers.

Pros and Cons of the 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid

Okay, guys, let's break down the good and the bad of the 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid. Here's a quick rundown to help you get a better grip on it.

Pros:

• Fuel Efficiency: The S-Hybrid system offers good fuel economy, particularly in city driving.
• Spacious Interior: Generous space for passengers and cargo.
• Flexible Seating: Versatile seating configurations to accommodate different needs.
• User-Friendly Features: Well-designed interior with easy-to-use technology.
• Comfortable Ride: Smooth and comfortable ride quality.
• Safety Features: Equipped with various advanced safety features.

Cons:

• Mild-Hybrid System: Not as fuel-efficient as a full hybrid like a Prius.
• Performance: Not designed for sporty driving.
• Availability: May not be available in all markets or regions.
• Technology: Infotainment system may feel dated compared to newer models.

Is the 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid Right for You?

So, is the 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid the right car for you? It really comes down to your priorities. If you are looking for a spacious, fuel-efficient, and family-friendly minivan, the Serena is definitely worth considering. It offers a comfortable ride, a practical interior, and a good array of safety features. The mild-hybrid system provides a nice balance of performance and fuel economy, making it a cost-effective choice for everyday driving. However, if you're expecting the fuel efficiency of a full-hybrid or if you're looking for sporty performance, you might want to consider other options. The Serena is designed primarily for comfort and practicality, and it excels in these areas. If you need a vehicle that can comfortably transport a family and their belongings, and you want to save on fuel costs, the 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid could be a great fit. If you are looking for a used minivan that offers a great blend of value, space, and efficiency, and is right for your needs, then it could be an excellent choice.

I hope this comprehensive review has given you a clear picture of the 2017 Nissan Serena Hybrid. Happy car hunting, guys!