It wouldn't be a Nissan without delivering strong performance, therefore the brand's ubiquitous VQ35 engine, that powers just about every car in its production lineup in various stages of tuning, is part of package. Whether featuring 245-hp, such as in the Murano SUV, or 287-hp as in the racy 350Z sports car, is really not what's important. What does matter is the engine's bullish 246 to 270 lb-ft of torque, depending on the production vehicle referenced, is perfect for transporting six passengers and luggage in sporting fashion.
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| The Serenity is powered by Nissan's ubiquitous VQ35 engine, found in the Murano, 350Z, and just about every other car in its production lineup. (Photo: Nissan) |
Nissan delivers serene power delivery via its XTRONIC CVT continuously variable transmission, the same as in the Murano. I've tested it quite a few times and consider it to be among the best of the current crop of CVTs, and a perfect match to the engine. It also improves the Murano's fuel economy by reducing driveline friction.
The suspension is all independent, being based on Nissan's capable FF-architecture as used in the Altima and Maxima sedans, Murano SUV and Quest minivan, but featuring large diameter 225/45R19 performance tires to improve at-the-limit handling.
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| The Serenity is an example of the new proud-to-be-Japanese direction in design philosophy that Nissan is considering pursuing. (Photo: Nissan) |
While the Serenity wasn't necessarily designed with the North American market in mind, the reason it debuted in Tokyo rather than Detroit, it points to a new proud-to-be-Japanese direction in design philosophy that could very well influence the styling of future Nissans the world over. Does it intrigue you? That's a question the brand will no doubt attempt to answer before changing its highly successful current formula that has Canadians and Americans alike snatching up new Nissan/Infiniti products with verve. Success does have its limitations.
Specifications:
- Body Type: 5-door sedan/hatchback/minivan/SUV crossover
- Layout: front engine, FWD
- Base Engine (est): 245 hp, 246 lb-ft of torque, 3.5-L, 24-valve, DOHC V6
- Transmission: variable CVT with steering-wheel controls
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
- Seating Capacity: 6
- Overall length: 4,700 mm (185.0 in)
- Overall width: 1,780 mm (70.1 in)
- Overall height: 1,550 mm (61.0 in)
- Wheelbase: 2,900 mm (114.2 in)
- Web Site: www.nissan.ca
