Nissan built its brand awareness on the utility vehicle segment's backbone, where it succeeded in offering dependable vehicles for contractors and construction sites. While the first generation was trustworthy, reliable, and affordable, its design was dull and unconvincing. That wasn't a real problem for a utility vehicle, but the sales departments noticed that critic from customers and asked for a better-looking car. That didn't come until the second generation, in 1999, which was also offered as a minivan for selected markets. The vehicle's raked front side made it look more like an MPV, even if under its new body was still a ladder-frame chassis built to carry heavy loads on various terrains. The contemporary front design with a large front grille and four headlights enhanced the exterior look. Its dual sliding doors on the sides made easier access to the cabin. The pillar-mounted taillights were big and mounted upper in the rear to be protected from parking scratches. Inside, Nissan offered the Serena seating for up to seven passengers, but a more luxurious version with fewer seats was available. The carmaker installed the gear selector on the dashboard next to the steering wheel to clear-up the floor between the front passengers. Under the hood, Nissan placed a 2.0-liter gasoline engine paired to a CVT gearbox. It used the same transmission for the 2.5-liter diesel version, which was available on selected markets.