2001 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway star Specs

OVERVIEW

With a fuel consumption of 28.6 mpg US - 34.4 mpg UK - 8.2 L/100km, a weight of 3483 lbs (1580 kg), the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway star has a DOHC 4 cylinder engine, a Regular gasoline engine QR20DE. This engine QR20DE produces a maximum power of 149 PS (147 bhp - 109.6 kW) at 6000 rpm and a maximum torque of 198 Nm (146.1 lb.ft - 20.2 kg.m) at 4000 rpm. The engine power is transmitted to the road by the front wheel drive (FF) with a Hyper CVT gearbox. For stopping power, the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway star braking system includes Leading trailing drum brake at the rear and ventilated disk at the front. Stock tire sizes are 195/65 on 15 inch rims 91S at the rear and 195/65 on 15 inch rims 91S at the front. Chassis details - Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway star has trailing arm type multi link rear suspension and strut front suspension for road holding and ride confort.

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By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 20, 2024

Introduction to Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star

The Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star, produced from December 2001 to September 2003, is a versatile and reliable minivan that offers ample space with three rows of seats, accommodating up to eight passengers. The car's front-wheel-drive system ensures smooth traction and drivetrain performance for city and highway driving.

Under its UA-TC24 frame name, this minivan boasts a sleek exterior design, measuring approximately 460 cm in length, 169.5 cm in width, and 182.5 cm in height. The 269.5 cm wheelbase provides stability and a comfortable ride, while the ground clearance of 16 cm enhances its adaptability to different road conditions.

The heart of the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star lies in its powerful QR20DE engine, a 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cylinder powertrain with a displacement of 1998 cm3. With a maximum power output of 149 PS at 6000 rpm and a torque of 198 Nm at 4000 rpm, this minivan delivers a compelling driving experience. The engine features a variable valve timing system for improved efficiency.

Coupled with the Hyper CVT transmission, the Serena 2.0 Highway Star ensures seamless gear shifts and optimal fuel efficiency. Speaking of fuel, the car comes equipped with a 15.8 US-gallon fuel tank, promising a satisfying driving range.

On the road, the Nissan Serena handles gracefully, thanks to its front strut suspension and rear trailing arm type multi-link suspension. Ventilated disk brakes at the front and leading trailing drum brakes at the rear provide reliable stopping power. The 195/65 R15 91S tires on aluminum rims contribute to a stable and comfortable ride.

Inside the cabin, the Serena 2.0 Highway Star offers standard power windows, power steering, and centralized door locks for convenience. The interior dimensions of 264.5 cm in length, 147 cm in width, and 130 cm in height create a spacious and comfortable environment for passengers.

Safety-wise, the minivan comes with essential features, including driver and passenger airbags, side impact bars, brake assist, safety belt pretensioners, and a durable frame for added protection.

While the car lacks certain amenities like a sunroof, xenon lamps, and advanced entertainment systems, its practicality, reliability, and safety features make it an attractive choice for families and those seeking a comfortable and dependable ride.

The Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star remains a popular option for those looking for a capable minivan that excels in practicality and efficiency. Its blend of performance, interior space, and safety features makes it a well-rounded vehicle for various lifestyles and driving needs.

Engine Specifications and Options

The heart of the 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star lies in its impressive engine specifications and options. This versatile minivan is equipped with the QR20DE engine, a robust 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cylinder powertrain that delivers reliable performance and efficiency.

With a displacement of 1998 cm3, the QR20DE engine generates a maximum power output of 149 PS at 6000 rpm and a peak torque of 198 Nm at 4000 rpm. This powertrain is known for its smooth and responsive performance, making it suitable for both city commuting and long highway journeys.

One of the key highlights of the QR20DE engine is its variable valve timing system, which enhances efficiency and optimizes power delivery across different driving conditions. The engine's compression ratio is set at 10, contributing to its fuel efficiency and overall performance.

The 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star offers a Hyper CVT transmission, ensuring seamless gear shifts and enhancing the minivan's fuel efficiency. The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) technology optimizes engine RPM for better fuel consumption, making it an economical choice for daily driving.

As for fuel consumption, the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star demonstrates its fuel efficiency with a consumption rate of 28.6 mpg (US) or 34.4 mpg (UK) in the 10/15 mode, equivalent to approximately 8.2 liters per 100 kilometers.

The QR20DE engine's specifications and technology make it a reliable and capable powertrain, providing a balance of power, fuel efficiency, and smooth performance that suits the needs of families and individuals seeking a practical minivan for their daily adventures.

Fuel Tank Capacity and Fuel Consumption

The 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star is designed to be fuel-efficient, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and long journeys alike. The minivan comes with a fuel tank capacity of 15.8 US gallons (approximately 60 liters), allowing for a decent driving range before needing to refuel.

Thanks to its efficient QR20DE engine and Hyper CVT transmission, the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star boasts impressive fuel consumption figures. In the 10/15 mode testing, the minivan achieves a fuel consumption rate of approximately 28.6 mpg (US) or 34.4 mpg (UK), equivalent to around 8.2 liters per 100 kilometers.

The combination of a reasonably sized fuel tank and excellent fuel efficiency ensures that the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star minimizes fuel stops, providing convenience and cost savings to its owners. Whether used for daily errands or family adventures, this minivan strikes a good balance between performance and economy, making it an attractive choice for drivers seeking practicality and fuel-consciousness.

MPG (Miles per Gallon) and Fuel Efficiency

The 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star stands out as a fuel-efficient minivan, catering to drivers who prioritize economical performance without compromising on practicality. This model achieves impressive MPG (Miles per Gallon) figures, ensuring cost-effective journeys for its owners.

Equipped with the QR20DE engine, a 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cylinder powertrain featuring a variable valve timing system, the Serena 2.0 Highway Star optimizes fuel efficiency while delivering sufficient power. Paired with the Hyper CVT transmission, the minivan seamlessly adjusts its RPM to ensure the best possible fuel consumption, making it an efficient choice for daily driving.

In testing conditions, the 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star demonstrates a fuel consumption rate of approximately 28.6 mpg (US) or 34.4 mpg (UK) in the 10/15 mode, which translates to approximately 8.2 liters per 100 kilometers. These figures are commendable for a minivan of its size and class, making it a reliable and economical option for families and individuals alike.

With its excellent fuel efficiency and a fuel tank capacity of 15.8 US gallons (approximately 60 liters), the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star offers a satisfying driving range before requiring refueling. This fuel-conscious minivan proves to be a prudent choice for those seeking to reduce their environmental footprint and fuel expenses while enjoying the practicality and comfort it has to offer.

Dimensions and Exterior Sizes

The 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star boasts a well-proportioned exterior, offering ample space for passengers and cargo alike. As a minivan with three rows of seats, it comfortably accommodates up to eight occupants.

In terms of dimensions, the Serena 2.0 Highway Star measures approximately 460 cm in length, 169.5 cm in width, and 182.5 cm in height. Its wheelbase spans about 269.5 cm, contributing to its stable and smooth ride.

The minivan's exterior design showcases a sleek and modern appearance, perfect for urban commuting and family travels. With a ground clearance of 16 cm, the Nissan Serena maintains an appropriate height for various road conditions.

The front and rear axles measure around 148 cm and 146.5 cm, respectively, adding to the vehicle's balanced weight distribution. The Serena 2.0 Highway Star weighs approximately 1580 kg, enhancing its stability and handling on the road.

For families or individuals who need a vehicle with generous interior space, the Serena 2.0 Highway Star delivers. Its interior dimensions include approximately 264.5 cm in length, 147 cm in width, and 130 cm in height. With these dimensions, passengers enjoy ample legroom and headroom for a comfortable journey.

The Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star strikes an excellent balance between exterior size and interior space, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a reliable and practical minivan for daily use and family adventures.

Wheel Options and Tire Sizes

The 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star comes with well-engineered wheel options and tire sizes, ensuring a comfortable and safe driving experience for its occupants.

The minivan is equipped with 15-inch wheels, providing an ideal balance between ride comfort and handling. The tire size for the Serena 2.0 Highway Star is 195/65 R15 91S. These tires offer a good combination of grip, stability, and fuel efficiency, enhancing the overall driving dynamics of the minivan.

The 195/65 R15 tire size indicates that the tires have a width of approximately 195 millimeters, an aspect ratio of 65 (indicating the tire's height as a percentage of its width), and they are designed to fit on 15-inch rims.

The use of aluminum rims contributes to the minivan's lightweight and responsive handling characteristics. The Serena 2.0 Highway Star's wheel and tire combination provides a comfortable ride, low road noise, and good traction on various road surfaces.

Whether navigating city streets or embarking on long journeys, the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star's wheel options and tire sizes play a crucial role in delivering a smooth and enjoyable driving experience for all passengers on board.

Trim Levels and Model Variants

The 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star offers a range of trim levels and model variants, catering to diverse preferences and needs of potential buyers.

The Highway Star trim is among the most popular choices, featuring a combination of style and practicality. With its attractive exterior design and spacious interior, the Highway Star trim is well-suited for families seeking a comfortable and reliable minivan.

Another variant worth considering is the Serena 2.0 Highway Star S, which offers similar features to the standard Highway Star but may come with additional options or packages. The Highway Star S trim may offer extra convenience features or enhanced styling elements, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a touch of luxury.

For those desiring a more budget-friendly option without compromising on essential features, the Serena 2.0 Highway Star X trim may be an excellent fit. The Highway Star X variant maintains the core characteristics of the Highway Star series, providing practicality and comfort at a more affordable price point.

Additionally, the Serena 2.0 Highway Star occasionally offers limited-edition or special model variants. These variants may include unique exterior colors, interior finishes, or exclusive features, appealing to collectors or customers looking for a distinctive touch.

Ultimately, the diverse trim levels and model variants of the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star cater to a wide range of preferences, making it possible for potential buyers to find a minivan that suits their specific needs and budget. Whether it's the standard Highway Star, the Highway Star S, the Highway Star X, or a limited-edition model, the 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star delivers practicality and versatility in various forms.

Generational Changes and Updates

During the 2001-2003 production years, the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star underwent notable generational changes and updates, enhancing its overall appeal and performance.

The introduction of the UA-TC24 frame name marked a new generation for the Nissan Serena, bringing with it various improvements to the minivan's design and technology. The refreshed exterior design featured sleeker lines and modern styling cues, contributing to a more contemporary appearance.

Inside the cabin, enhancements to the interior materials and finishes provided a more refined and comfortable ambiance for occupants. The spaciousness and practicality remained intact, making it an ideal choice for families and those who valued ample cargo space.

In terms of technology, the 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star introduced the Hyper CVT transmission. This advanced transmission system optimized gear ratios for improved fuel efficiency and smoother acceleration, elevating the driving experience for owners.

Furthermore, the QR20DE engine received updates, including the implementation of a variable valve timing system. This enhancement bolstered engine performance and efficiency, aligning with evolving industry standards and consumer demands.

The generational changes and updates made to the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star during this period showcased Nissan's commitment to delivering a reliable and modern minivan to the market. These improvements contributed to the model's continued popularity and solidified its position as a practical and family-friendly choice for drivers seeking a versatile and well-equipped vehicle.

Interior Features and Space

The 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star offers a well-designed and spacious interior, providing comfort and convenience for passengers on every journey.

The minivan's three-row seating arrangement allows it to accommodate up to eight occupants, making it an excellent choice for larger families or groups. With ample legroom and headroom, passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride, even during extended trips.

The interior materials and finishes are thoughtfully selected, offering a balance of durability and sophistication. The well-crafted seats provide adequate support for both short commutes and long-distance travels, ensuring a pleasant driving experience for all passengers.

The minivan's dashboard layout is designed for intuitive use, placing essential controls and features within easy reach of the driver. This design enhances convenience and minimizes distractions, making it safer to operate the vehicle.

In terms of storage, the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star excels. Numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin offer ample space for stowing personal items, snacks, and other necessities. Additionally, the minivan's cargo area provides generous space for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment, making it ideal for family outings or vacations.

Comfort and convenience are further enhanced by features such as power windows, power steering, and centralized door locks. These standard features make operating the minivan effortless and enjoyable.

The practicality of the 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star extends to its versatility in accommodating various passenger needs. The second and third-row seats are designed to fold and slide, allowing for flexible seating configurations or additional cargo space as needed.

Overall, the interior features and space of the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star are thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortable and accommodating environment for occupants. Its attention to detail and user-friendly layout make it a standout choice in the minivan market, appealing to families and individuals seeking a reliable and spacious vehicle for their everyday needs.

Safety Features and Ratings

The 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star prioritizes safety with a range of features and design elements aimed at protecting occupants on the road.

The minivan comes equipped with essential safety features, including driver and passenger airbags, designed to provide protection in the event of a collision. Side impact bars add an additional layer of safety, fortifying the vehicle's structure to safeguard passengers from side impacts.

In terms of braking performance, the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star is equipped with brake assist, ensuring that the minivan can achieve optimal stopping power when needed. The minivan also features a 3-point safety belt system for all seating positions, further enhancing occupant safety.

Child car restraints are standard in the Nissan Serena, catering to the safety needs of younger passengers. These restraints provide added protection and security for children during travel.

Additionally, the 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star is built with a durable frame, enhancing its ability to absorb and distribute impact forces in the event of a collision. This robust construction contributes to the minivan's overall safety rating.

While specific crash test ratings for this model may vary depending on the region, the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star's structural integrity and safety features generally garner favorable reviews from safety organizations and drivers alike.

Overall, the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star is designed to provide a safe and secure driving experience. With its range of safety features and sturdy construction, this minivan prioritizes the well-being of its occupants, making it a reliable choice for families and individuals seeking peace of mind on their journeys.

Reliability and User Reviews

The 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star has earned a reputation for reliability, making it a popular choice among owners. This minivan's dependable performance and practicality have contributed to its positive user reviews over the years.

Owners appreciate the Serena 2.0 Highway Star's fuel efficiency, especially when paired with the Hyper CVT transmission. The combination of a well-designed engine and transmission results in cost-effective fuel consumption, which is highly valued by drivers seeking economical vehicles.

The minivan's spacious interior is often praised by users, as it offers ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. Families, in particular, appreciate the generous cargo space and the ability to adjust the seats to accommodate various passenger and cargo needs.

Nissan's attention to safety features and structural integrity has resonated with owners, who express confidence in the minivan's safety ratings and performance. Features like airbags, side impact bars, and child car restraints contribute to a sense of security while driving the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star.

The QR20DE engine has proven to be reliable and durable, requiring minimal maintenance and servicing for many owners. This engine's reputation for longevity adds to the minivan's overall appeal and ownership satisfaction.

While every vehicle may have its occasional issues, the overall reliability of the 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star has led to a significant number of satisfied and contented owners. Its combination of reliability, fuel efficiency, practicality, and safety features has made it a trusted choice for families and individuals seeking a dependable and versatile minivan.

Maintenance Costs and Ownership Experience

The 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star offers a relatively positive ownership experience, with many owners expressing satisfaction with its overall performance and practicality.

In terms of maintenance costs, the minivan is generally considered to be budget-friendly. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tire rotations, are affordable and easy to perform. The availability of genuine Nissan parts also contributes to lower maintenance expenses, as it ensures compatibility and reliability for repairs.

The QR20DE engine, known for its reliability and longevity, typically requires minimal maintenance beyond routine servicing. Owners report that the engine's durability reduces the need for frequent visits to the repair shop, contributing to a positive ownership experience.

As with any vehicle, some owners may encounter minor issues over time. However, user reviews often highlight that the 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star's overall maintenance costs and repair frequency remain manageable and reasonable.

Owners who prioritize fuel efficiency appreciate the minivan's economical performance, as it helps to keep fuel expenses in check. The Hyper CVT transmission's contribution to better fuel consumption further adds to the ownership experience, saving owners money at the pump.

The spacious and practical interior, coupled with the minivan's reliable performance, contributes to a positive ownership experience for families. The ability to comfortably transport passengers and cargo makes the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star a popular choice for daily use and long-distance travel.

Overall, the 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star offers a satisfying ownership experience characterized by manageable maintenance costs, reliable performance, and practicality. As a versatile and budget-friendly minivan, it continues to be a favored option for drivers seeking a reliable and spacious vehicle for their daily needs.

Fuel Average in Real-World Conditions

The real-world fuel average of the 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star has been a subject of interest for many owners and potential buyers. While official fuel consumption figures may provide a baseline, real-world driving conditions often yield different results.

In various user reviews and reports, the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star generally performs admirably in terms of fuel efficiency. Many owners find that the minivan's fuel consumption aligns closely with the official MPG (Miles per Gallon) figures provided by the manufacturer.

The combination of the QR20DE engine and the Hyper CVT transmission plays a significant role in delivering good fuel efficiency. The variable valve timing system in the engine optimizes performance, while the Hyper CVT transmission adjusts gear ratios to suit driving conditions, contributing to lower fuel consumption.

Owners who use the minivan predominantly for city commuting often report achieving respectable fuel economy figures, especially during smooth driving. On highways and long-distance journeys, the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star's fuel efficiency remains commendable.

However, it is essential to note that individual driving habits, traffic conditions, and terrain can impact fuel consumption. Aggressive driving, heavy traffic, and steep inclines may lead to higher fuel consumption compared to ideal conditions.

Overall, the 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star offers competitive real-world fuel average figures. Its fuel efficiency, combined with its practicality and reliability, makes it a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a cost-effective and versatile minivan for their daily travels.

Performance and Handling

The 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star delivers a balanced performance and confident handling, making it a practical choice for various driving scenarios.

The minivan's QR20DE engine, a 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cylinder powertrain, provides sufficient power for city commuting and highway driving. With 149 PS of maximum power and 198 Nm of peak torque, the Serena 2.0 Highway Star offers smooth acceleration and responsiveness, ensuring a comfortable driving experience for occupants.

The Hyper CVT transmission enhances the minivan's performance by providing seamless gear shifts and optimizing engine RPM for improved fuel efficiency. The continuous gear ratio adjustment of the CVT ensures that the engine operates efficiently across different driving conditions.

The Serena 2.0 Highway Star's suspension system, featuring front struts and a rear trailing arm type multi-link setup, contributes to its stable and composed ride quality. The suspension is tuned to absorb road imperfections and bumps, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey for passengers.

The minivan's handling is characterized by predictable and well-weighted steering, offering ease of maneuverability in tight city streets and confidence on highways. The minivan's relatively compact dimensions make it agile in urban settings, allowing for easy navigation through traffic.

Owners often appreciate the minivan's stable and planted feel on the road, which adds to their sense of security during drives. Its stable handling is particularly valuable during family trips or when carrying passengers.

While the primary focus of the Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star is practicality and comfort, its overall performance and handling strike a satisfying balance between efficiency and drivability. These qualities make it a suitable choice for drivers seeking a reliable and versatile minivan for their daily commuting and family adventures.

Conclusion: Pros and Cons of Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star

The 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star comes with several pros and cons, offering a well-rounded package for potential buyers to consider.

Pros:
1. Practicality: The minivan's three-row seating and spacious interior provide ample room for passengers and cargo, making it an excellent choice for families or groups.
2. Fuel Efficiency: Equipped with the QR20DE engine and Hyper CVT transmission, the Serena 2.0 Highway Star delivers commendable fuel efficiency, ideal for cost-conscious drivers.
3. Reliability: The QR20DE engine's reputation for durability and minimal maintenance needs contributes to the minivan's overall reliability.
4. Safety Features: Standard safety features, such as airbags, side impact bars, and child car restraints, enhance occupant protection and peace of mind for drivers and passengers.
5. User-Friendly Interior: Thoughtfully designed controls and user-friendly features contribute to a comfortable and convenient driving experience.
6. Versatility: The ability to fold and slide the seats provides flexibility in accommodating various passenger and cargo configurations, catering to different needs.

Cons:
1. Limited Performance: While the minivan offers adequate power for everyday driving, it may not be the most exhilarating option for performance-oriented drivers.
2. Handling: The minivan's handling is geared towards comfort rather than sportiness, which might not appeal to those seeking sharp and dynamic driving dynamics.
3. Infotainment Technology: The 2001-2003 Serena 2.0 Highway Star may lack some of the latest infotainment and connectivity features found in more modern vehicles.
4. External Noise: Some users report moderate road and wind noise at higher speeds, which might affect cabin serenity during long-distance journeys.
5. Styling: The minivan's exterior design, while practical, may not be as striking or contemporary as some competitors in the market.
6. Lack of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems: Advanced driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist, are not present in this model.

In conclusion, the 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star offers practicality, fuel efficiency, and reliability as its key strengths, making it a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a dependable and spacious minivan. However, potential buyers should be aware of its limited performance, handling characteristics, and the absence of some advanced technology features when considering this model. Overall, the Serena 2.0 Highway Star presents a compelling option for those valuing versatility and efficiency in their daily driving experience.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about the 2001-2003 Nissan Serena 2.0 Highway Star