After a decade without a major update, Nissan has introduced the redesigned Murano, the brand's midsized two-row SUV.
Nissan dropped the V6 and CVT in favor of a turbocharged four-cylinder and nine-speed automatic.
This combo generates decent power but initially, it feels lethargic and the engine sounds less refined.
The ride is a bit stiff-legged and handling is sound but unexceptional.
The interior fit and finish is nice and the front seats are comfortable.
The infotainment screen is far away, and the push-button gear selector is not intuitive.
Heated, power-adjustable front seats are standard, and ventilated, massaging seats are optional.
Other options include a heated steering wheel, panoramic roof glass, and multicolor LED ambient interior lighting.
ProPilot Assist, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering assistance, is optional.
Notable Changes
This vehicle is currently being tested by our experts.
Stay up to date when the latest road test reports & ratings are released, and get car news, buying advice,
maintenance tips and more. Sign up for our FREE weekly Cars Newsletter.
2015-2024
2015 Model Redesign Year
The third-generation Murano puts more emphasis on styling and interior finish than on top-flight driving dynamics.
It's more luxurious, larger, and further refined than previous generations.
The punchy, refined 3.5-liter six-cylinder carries over, paired with a CVT, and returns 21 mpg overall.
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.
An optional 8-inch color display houses the NissanConnect infotainment system. Changes for 2018 included standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. For 2017, Apple CarPlay is added to the infotainment system.
Updates for 2019 include a mild freshening.
Nissan's Rear Door Alert system, giving drivers messages on the driver instrument panel, and multiple horn honks as a way to remind drivers to check the rear seats after they park, is also standard for all trims for 2019. For 2021, Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 becomes standard for all trim lines, This package includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning, lane departure warning, high beam assist and rear automatic braking.
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.
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.
You will get digital access to reviews and ratings for over 8,500 products and services
to help you make better choices for life’s big moments and the everyday ones in between.
If you feel you have received this message in error, please view our customer care
FAQs or access your
account information here.