To be fair though, only the car-based Acura competes directly with the Murano. Nissan also offers its Pathfinder for those who delve off-road plus it has a new V8 powered full-size SUV dubbed the Pathfinder Armada on the way. Other minor gripes include a dash that's as long as a soccer field, making it difficult to place the car in traffic. As well some road noise intrudes on its otherwise high levels of refinement.
Concerns aside, its style, power, handling, roominess, utility and feature content should give the Murano enough confidence to win over new friends. If you're looking for a family hauler with a dash of sport, a touch of class and lots of character put it on your list to drive.
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP):$39,500 - $49,900
- Body Type: 5-door SUV, unibody
- Layout: front engine, FWD (opt AWD)
- Engine: 245 hp, 246 lb-ft torque, 3.5-L, 24-valve, DOHC V6
- Transmission: continuously variable (CVT)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, BA, EBD
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Volume (seats up/down): 923 - 2,311 L (32.6 - 81.6 cu ft)
- Curb Weight: 1,724 - 1,796 kg (3,801 - 3,960 lb)
- Ground Clearance: 178 mm (7.0 in)
- Towing Capacity: 1,588 kg (3,500 lb)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 11.8 / 9.4 L/100 km (20 / 25 mpg)
- Fuel Type: unleaded premium
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Buick Rendezvous, Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento, Mitsubishi Endeavor, Pontiac Aztek, Toyota Highlander, Volvo XC90
- Web Site: www.nissan.ca
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