It's basically a variation of the new upgraded Altima V6, now boosting output from 240 to 245-hp - maximum torque is 246 lb-ft. It drives either the front wheels or all four via a continuously variable transmission (CVT) Nissan calls Xtronic, improving acceleration and fuel economy. Incorporating a belt and two pulleys Xtronic eliminates the traditional gear intervals making for seamless shifts, or in actual fact, no shifts at all. Also you can say goodbye to gear hunting on long uphill grades, as the CVT will maintain the optimal rev range from bottom to top. While the CVT improves performance don't expect the 1,724 - 1,796 kg (3,801 - 3,960 lb) Murano to accelerate quite as quickly as the comparatively featherweight 1,472 kg (3,246 lb) automatic transmission equipped Altima V6 sedan. That said it will be one of the quickest SUVs in its class.
The Murano should come closer to the Altima in handling dynamics though. Its 4-wheel independent suspension system uses an advanced multi-link rear design, a cradle-type front subframe and high-stiffness stabilizer bars. Four-wheel vented disc brakes with ABS, Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) make sure that it's as sure-footed in a panic stop as it is during acceleration. Additionally, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), improving stability by controlling brake pressure and engine torque automatically during understeer, oversteer and slippery conditions, Traction Control System (TCS) and a tire pressure monitoring are included in the optional Dynamic Control package.
Its long wheelbase, wide posture and efficiently packaged rear multi-link suspension makes for a large rear cargo area. Highlighting functionality, a variety of handy storage compartments include a two-tiered center console storage bin with room enough for a laptop computer. There are spaces allocated in the center console for cell phones, sunglasses, coins, cups and bottles while additional valuables can be stored in a tray and two bins under the cargo floor. A standard split fold-down rear seat includes a reclining feature and a remote flip-down function, so the seats can be released from the rear cargo area.