#69 All-New Nissan Murano – Elegant, Striking and More Luxurious

The first-generation Nissan Murano had a profound impact on the SUV market when it was introduced for the 2003 model year. In addition to being one of the first crossovers on the market, the first generation Nissan Murano offered a fresh design sensibility that combined an elegant style with premium features, without a luxury price tag. The second-generation Murano, introduced for model year 2009, maintained its strong position as the halo vehicle for Nissan crossovers. When it came time to consider an all-new third generation, Nissan Murano had a high standard to meet.

All-New Nissan Murano

While the original was inspired by the elegance of the famed Italian Murano glassware from which the model took its name, the third-generation took its cues from the future, expressed in the form of the Nissan Resonance Concept.A steep windshield rake, tapering roof line and ripped upper-body lines made the Resonance an auto show standout, but underneath its concept car exaggerations lay the skin of the all-new Nissan Murano. Entering its third generation, the all-new Nissan Murano now features a sharper and wedge like silhouette, punctuated by a variation of the "boomerang" headlights found in other recent Nissan products.

Unique profile 

Looks

The prominent glass areas of the first-generation Nissan Murano are retained and expanded with the new design. This includes the use of its jet-inspired roof and D-pillars that appear disconnected from the roof that help visually lighten the interior. Another key element is the continued refinement of the boomerang-style headlights and taillights, which were originally introduced on the Nissan 370Z. With the all-new Nissan Murano, the lights shapes are slimmed.

Headlight 

The lights' LED Daytime Running Light accents are instantly recognizable at night as a Nissan Murano signature. Optional LED headlamps offer better illumination at night. While similar in dimensions to the previous generation models, the new design is slightly lower, wider, and longer, enhancing the aerodynamics while not compromising the desired crossover height and stance.

Side mirror with integrated turn signals 

Other critical details, such as the grille shutter, wing lip mouldings, rear bumper surfacing, rear tire deflectors and integrated rear spoiler further improves the all-new SUV’s aerodynamics. The design of the standard LED taillights is seamlessly integrated into the rear glass, conveying a high-tech quality.

Rear lights 

Power 

The all-new Nissan Murano is available with a standard 3.5-liter DOHC V6 rated at 196 kW (260 hp) and 352 Nm of torque. Also standard is an advanced Xtronic transmission tuned for quick response and smoothness. Fuel economy is reduced by approximately 20 percent versus the current generation Murano, due to overall weight reduction, enhanced aerodynamics, and engine/transmission efficiencies.

larger and more aggressive grille 

Like the previous generation, the all-new Nissan Murano offers responsive handling and a comfortable ride through use of a 4-wheel independent suspension featuring a front strut/rear multi-link design. Also standard are 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. Sporty 18-inch or 20-inch machine-finished aluminium-alloy wheels are also available. The 2015 Murano is offered in front-wheel drive or intuitive all-wheel drive.

Refined power unit 

Interior

The exterior theme of futuristic travel and refined intensity continue throughout the all-new Nissan Murano interior, starting the moment the doors are opened with its available advanced lighting system, open and comfortable feeling, and use of premium materials. Continuing the idea of a concept car brought to production, the all-new Nissan Murano shares the look and feel of the Resonance.

Cockpit 

The upscale social lounge interior creates an inviting and comfortable atmosphere. The instrument panel height is lower than outgoing Nissan Murano. At the centre of the expansive dashboard is an information and control centre with an available 8.0-inch colour display with multi-touch control.

Infotainment system 

The cockpit is less cluttered thanks to the reduction of audio and navigation switches from 25 to 10. Nissan's advanced NASA-inspired Zero Gravity seats are standard for front and rear outboard occupants. The all-new Nissan Murano's cargo area has been reconfigured to provide a projected best storage space in the segment with seats up.

Spacious boot 

With the easy rear seat release and available power rear seat return, the all-new Nissan Murano converts from people hauler to cargo ship or back within seconds. All configurations can be done from the back, with no need of walking to each door. An advanced Bose design 11-speaker sound system keeps all occupants entertained while a larger Power Panoramic Moonroof enhances the interior’s open, airy feeling.

Rear look

Verdict

The all-new Nissan Murano continues to be a well-rounded midsize crossover that combines impressive style and sophistication with an engaging driving experience. The refined interior, striking design and the powerful engine make this Japanese SUV a must have choice.