Nissan Murano

Nissan's midsized SUV uses a punchy, refined 3.5-liter six-cylinder paired with a continuously variable transmission. Power delivery is prompt and effortless, and we got 21 mpg overall. The cabin is quiet and well-finished, and has an upscale feel to it. The rear seat is roomy, and access is easy. Rear and side visibility are hindered, however. Handling is not very sporty, with overly light steering that reduces driver confidence. The ride is steady and absorbent on the standard 18-inch tires but less so on the Platinum trim's 20-inch tires. Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking is standard. Optional safety features include blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning. An available 8-inch color display houses the NissanConnect infotainment system, which is easy to use.

The third-generation crossover continued that trend, putting more emphasis on styling and interior finish than on top-flight driving dynamics. This redesign of the Murano finds the model at once more luxurious, larger and further refined than those that came before it. The punchy, refined 3.5-liter six-cylinder carries over, paired with a CVT. The cabin is quiet and well-finished, and has an upscale feel to it. Handling is not very sporty, with overly light steering that reduces driver confidence. The ride is steady and absorbent on the standard 18-inch tires, but less so on the Platinum trim's 20-inchers. Available safety features include blind-spot and cross-traffic warnings, as well as forward collision warning with emergency automatic emergency braking. An optional 8-inch color display houses the NissanConnect infotainment system.

The Murano's refined and powerful 3.5-liter V6 is mated to a CVT and delivers strong performance and respectable fuel economy. Handling is responsive, secure, and forgiving. The 2009 redesign brought a more comfortable ride, a nicer interior, and standard ESC, but didn't improve upon cargo capacity. Expect 19 mpg overall from the 3.5-liter V6. Subsequent redesigns took the Murano away from budget-BMW sportiness and towards being more luxurious. Through the years, one constant remained though: limited rear visibility has always been a drawback. A convertible version arrived in 2012.

Looking for a budget BMW X5? Surprisingly, the first generation Nissan Murano fits the bill. This two-row SUV has responsive and nimble handling that makes it fun to drive. Look for one with the optional stability control, called VSC. Mated to a CVT, the Murano's refined and powerful 3.5-liter V6 delivers strong performance and respectable fuel economy at 19 mpg overall. However it does require premium fuel. A stiff and noisy ride is a more significant drawback, as is limited rear outward visibility. The front seats are fairly comfortable and the interior is stylishly dressed. Although access is easy and seating is roomy, cargo space is limited.