The Nissan Murano is a quiet, snug and refined midsize crossover with a curvaceous look that sets it apart from its rivals. While it returns only middling fuel economy, the remainder of the Murano is strong enough to warrant a heavy look from those seeking a solid 5-passenger crossover.
First introduced back in 2009, the Murano recently received a midcycle update that brought more normal equipment together with a restyled front bumper and revised taillights. Overall, the crossover's look remains decidedly dynamic, with highlights together with bulging wheel arches, dramatic character lines and a sweeping front grille/headlight style. Upswept rear-side windows contribute to the planning however compromise rear visibility.
The cabin has a chic appear and feel thanks to high-quality materials that would not be out of place in a very vehicle from Nissan's Infiniti luxury division. A simple however highly effective tri-binnacle instrument panel greets the driving force, whereas the wide center stack houses well-organized and intuitive controls. Cargo space is rated at 31.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, whereas 64 cubic feet is on the market with the rear seats folded down to create a flat load floor.
The Murano is constructed on Nissan's "D" platform, which provides a solid foundation and lightweight suspension elements. Handling is predictable, while the ride is snug and well-insulated from road imperfections. A curiously named "twin-orifice," speed-sensitive steering system is responsive and correct.
A 3.5-liter V6 serves up 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, while one among the higher CVTs (continuously variable transmission) metes out power smoothly to either the front wheels (the quality configuration) or all four wheels (with an optional AWD system).
Fuel economy is rated at 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with FWD, while AWD-equipped models drop one mpg in the highway cycle. Whereas way from terrible, some competitors have surpassed the Murano in efficiency.
Trim-Level Breakdown
Murano consumers can choose between 5 trim levels – S, SV, SV Value Package, SL and LE.
The S trim comes normal with power windows and locks, twin-zone automatic climate control, a six-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system with an aux-in jack and a six-disc CD changer, cruise control and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The SV brings niceties like a dual-panel moonroof, a rear parking camera with an interior show, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port for iPod connectivity, fog lights and power-adjustable front seats. Newly added for 2013 are an auto-dimming rearview mirror and HomeLink Universal Transceiver.
The new-for-2013 SV Value Package gets a titanium finish for 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, adds a power liftgate, nine-speaker and dual-subwoofer Bose audio system, and a Nissan Navigation System.
Those willing to boost up to the SL can be rewarded with leather upholstery, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a 9-speaker Bose stereo system and an influence liftgate. The latest model year gets a titanium end for its 18-inch aluminum wheels in the SL trim.
Opting for either the LE Platinum Edition or SL Navigation Package will grant patrons Nissan's Safety Shield technologies that include the Moving Object Detection (MOD), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) systems.
Finally, the high-shelf LE trim adds 20-in. aluminum wheels, heated rear seats, Xenon HID lights, and silver-accented roof rails.
Two new colors were added: Midnight Garnet, Gun Metallic, bringing the entire to eight.
Occupant Safety
All Murano models return customary with twin front, front side and side curtain airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems and a tire-pressure monitoring system.
2013 Nissan Murano
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