Crossover Cool:
Nissan says the Murano was developed, designed and engineered specifically for the North American market and represents Nissan’s first entry into the crossover SUV segment.
Total Damage?
The Murano SE (for sport) starts at $28,200, and the SL (for luxury) starts at $29,150.
It’s What’s On the Inside that Counts:
Sure, the outside looks great, but check out what’s underneath – a 3.5-liter, 245 hp, aluminum V-6 engine and smooth-shifting Xtronic CVT(tm) (Continuously Variable Transmission). With the CVT(tm), you’ll get power without the pain at the pump: 20 mpg city/24 mpg highway on the all-wheel-drive models and 20/25 on front-wheel-drive models.
Fill ‘Er Up:
The Murano was made for cargo. Automatic flip-down rear seats fold flat at the touch of a button, giving you more than 81-cubic feet of cargo space.
Mobile Office for Workaholics:
In addition to huge amounts of storage space, as well as a cell phone holder, the Murano has a wide center console that’s a perfect fit for your laptop. (Disclaimer: BSB is in no way encouraging people to drive while working on their laptops – although this would be a boon for collision repairers.)
Car IQ:
The car’s built-in brain resides in the Information Center, where you can keep tabs on the cabin and outside temperature, fuel economy and distance to an empty tank.
It’s No Minivan:
The Murano’s closest competitors – the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot – offer a third row of seating for kids. Nissan nixed the kiddie seats and, instead, designed the Murano with first-class seating for four to five adults, with generous legroom even in the back.
Sweet Seats:
A memory driver’s seat stores personalized settings for two different drivers, including the positioning for side mirrors and adjustable foot pedals. The seat also automatically (and very politely) moves aside for easy entry and exit.
Writer Cheryl McMullen is managing editor of BodyShop Business.
