All-world powerplant
Once again, the Murano relies on the automaker’s internationally-acclaimed 3.5-litre V6 engine. The reliable high-quality unit now produces 265 horsepower, making this crossover one of the most potent in its class. The downside, as you can imagine, is a relatively hefty fuel bill. My tester averaged 12.1 litres per 100 kilometres.
That said, the Xtronic continuously-variable transmission (CVT) is clearly the Achilles’ heel of this powertrain. Sure, it’s flexible, but it does seem to restrain a large number of ponies at times. In so-called manual mode, the feeling is the same. The CVT takes a lot of driving fun away and doesn’t do justice to the engine. So, if you’re looking for entertainment in the form of rewarding accelerations, I’m sorry to tell you to cross the Murano off your list.
Back on a positive note, the steering is very pleasant and effective at providing feedback from the road. Granted, the Murano is no BMW, but it’s sharper than the average Japanese competitor. Handling is good, naturally, thanks to the huge wheels and tires. This crossover is also very manoeuvrable downtown with a fairly tight turning radius.
The brakes are always up to the task, although their small disc size makes for limited braking endurance during aggressive driving. I completely understand that the Murano was not designed to be a track-ready machine, but larger brakes would definitely boost safety and confidence behind the wheel, especially when a trailer is attached in the back.
Competition
The Murano faces intense competition in the midsize CUV segment, including the Ford Edge Sport ($40,699), Honda Pilot Touring ($50,420), Hyundai Veracruz Limited ($47,295), Mazda CX-7 GT AWD ($36,095), Mitsubishi Endeavor Limited ($43,298), Subaru Tribeca Optimum ($48,195) and Toyota Highlander Limited ($46,205).
For about the same price, you can purchase a variety of premium compact SUVs and crossovers, such as the Audi Q5 3.2 ($43,400), BMW X3 ($45,300), Lexus RX 350 ($46,900) and Mercedes-Benz GLK350 ($41,800).
The 2009 Nissan Murano LE AWD starts at $47,498.
Bottom line
The new Murano is an interesting vehicle. It’s nice, comfortable and agile on the road, but it lacks some refinement. Overall, though, the pros easily outweigh the cons.
photo:Matthieu Lambert, Nissan
Once again, the Murano relies on the automaker’s internationally-acclaimed 3.5-litre V6 engine. The reliable high-quality unit now produces 265 horsepower, making this crossover one of the most potent in its class. The downside, as you can imagine, is a relatively hefty fuel bill. My tester averaged 12.1 litres per 100 kilometres.
 |
| The steering is very pleasant and effective at providing feedback from the road. |
That said, the Xtronic continuously-variable transmission (CVT) is clearly the Achilles’ heel of this powertrain. Sure, it’s flexible, but it does seem to restrain a large number of ponies at times. In so-called manual mode, the feeling is the same. The CVT takes a lot of driving fun away and doesn’t do justice to the engine. So, if you’re looking for entertainment in the form of rewarding accelerations, I’m sorry to tell you to cross the Murano off your list.
Back on a positive note, the steering is very pleasant and effective at providing feedback from the road. Granted, the Murano is no BMW, but it’s sharper than the average Japanese competitor. Handling is good, naturally, thanks to the huge wheels and tires. This crossover is also very manoeuvrable downtown with a fairly tight turning radius.
The brakes are always up to the task, although their small disc size makes for limited braking endurance during aggressive driving. I completely understand that the Murano was not designed to be a track-ready machine, but larger brakes would definitely boost safety and confidence behind the wheel, especially when a trailer is attached in the back.
Competition
The Murano faces intense competition in the midsize CUV segment, including the Ford Edge Sport ($40,699), Honda Pilot Touring ($50,420), Hyundai Veracruz Limited ($47,295), Mazda CX-7 GT AWD ($36,095), Mitsubishi Endeavor Limited ($43,298), Subaru Tribeca Optimum ($48,195) and Toyota Highlander Limited ($46,205).
For about the same price, you can purchase a variety of premium compact SUVs and crossovers, such as the Audi Q5 3.2 ($43,400), BMW X3 ($45,300), Lexus RX 350 ($46,900) and Mercedes-Benz GLK350 ($41,800).
The 2009 Nissan Murano LE AWD starts at $47,498.
Bottom line
The new Murano is an interesting vehicle. It’s nice, comfortable and agile on the road, but it lacks some refinement. Overall, though, the pros easily outweigh the cons.
 |
| The 2009 Nissan Murano LE AWD starts at $47,498. |
photo:Matthieu Lambert, Nissan
Article Gallery