The striking, third-generation Nissan Murano serves up a decidedly premium interior feel. While the curvy, swoopy concept-car like styling impedes outward visibility, the Murano is easy to live with otherwise. Interior accommodations are generous, access is easy, and controls are mostly simple-to-use, including a well designed touchscreen infotainment system. The plush cabin is impressively finished and quiet.
Although the interior might scream "luxury," driving the Murano proves to be rather mundane. Cornering is uninvolving and devoid of sportiness, limited by overly light steering detracting from a driver's confidence on twisty roads. Murano ultimately proved secure at its emergency handling limits, but didn't shine. Likewise, ride comfort is decent, though it doesn't stand out.
There's plenty of oomph on tap from the powerful V6, and Murano's continuously variable transmission is one of the better CVTs out there. Still, while the gearless tranny works well when loafing around town, it lets the engine rev high for protracted periods during hard acceleration, forcing you to listen to unwanted engine noise. Fuel economy averaged 21 mpg overall in our tests.
Higher trims of the Murano are available with advanced safety electronics, such as forward-collision warning. Further, in-cabin electronics and infotainment connectivity are comprehensive. Going well beyond a basic backup camera, the optional 360-degree "Around View" camera system is a welcomed convenience while parking.