Nissan Serena (Parallel Imported)

I drove 1 in Japan last year on a family road trip.

This is a huge car almost the size of an Alphard. So instantly, comfort would come to our minds. Indeed, it is comfortable. Even the front feels like a good place to be in. This is a good car for long drives and big families.

The one I drove in Japan was excellent. Almost the same as what you would get in an Estima in terms of almost anything. Equipment level was pretty standard, such as in-built GPS, reverse camera, things like that. Japanese engines and technology has always been one of the best to me, and the Serena certainly reflected that well. Engine was very smooth and quiet, and throttle response was immediate, reacting brilliantly to any changes. Brakes however, were not so good, as the stopping distance was much longer than that of an Estima or an Alphard. CVT gearbox was unbelievably smooth, responsive, and well refined. Ride comfort was also good due to the good suspension and the fat tyres. Start-stop function was also very responsive and it starts surprisingly fast too. However, being a massive car, negotiating tight corners and small roads can be a challenge. Turning radius wise, it is pretty tidy for a big car like this. In fact, better than an Estima or an Alphard.

Inside, the space is definitely comparable to an Alphard any time. Seats were comfortable, and it certainly feels like a wonderful place to be in. I could just drive and drive non-stop without the burden of sore buttocks. Seats behind were massive, leg and head room were excellent as well.

The FC of this car really shocked me. In an Estima, a full tank would give me about less than 500km. This car however, on just 1 and a quarter tank, delivered close to 750km, an incredible range for a huge and heavy car like this.

This is an amazing people mover that does wonders. It's just a pity that other MPVs sell better than this car.