Nissan Murano Z51 - the third generation of the popular crossover, which was produced from 2015 to 2022. This model was a real breakthrough for the brand, combining aggressive design, premium comfort and advanced technology. Unlike previous versions, Z51 received a completely updated platform, a hybrid modification and an expanded list of safety options.
The car was positioned as an alternative to European and American business-class crossovers, offering a more affordable price with a comparable level of equipment. Engineers paid special attention aerodynamics, efficiency And multimedia systems. In this article we will analyze in detail all the technical characteristics Murano Z51, including engines, transmission, suspension and electronics, and also highlight the key advantages and weaknesses of the model.
Engines and transmission: what's under the hood of the Murano Z51?
With my heart Nissan Murano Z51 has become time-tested 3.5 liter petrol V6 VQ35DE, which has already proven itself in previous generations. This motor develops 260 hp at 6000 rpm And 336 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm, which provides the crossover with confident acceleration and good dynamics. Works with him Xtronic continuously variable transmission, adapted for high torque.
Transmission feature Z51 became the presence manual mode with 7-step simulation, which allows the driver to control engine speed in a sporty driving style. The CVT is also equipped with a system D-Step Logic, which simulates gear shifts for a more familiar acceleration feel. In 2017, a hybrid version with a system e-Power, but it was only available in some markets, such as Japan.
- 🔧 VQ35DE (3.5 V6) — 260 hp, 336 Nm, consumption 9.8 l/100 km (mixed)
- ⚡ Hybrid e-Power — 2.5 l + electric motor, 250 hp (Japanese market only)
- 🔄 CVT Xtronic with manual mode and system
D-Step Logic - 🛢️ Fuel — AI-95 (recommended), AI-92 is allowed
It's important to note that Murano Z51 completed exclusively all-wheel drive Intelligent AWD, which automatically distributes torque between the axles depending on road conditions. The system can switch to 2WD to save fuel on smooth roads, but most of the time it works in AWD Auto.
- 3.5 V6 (260 hp)
- Hybrid e-Power (250 hp)
- Diesel (if it was in the lineup)
- I don't know what to choose
Dimensions and weight: how much larger is the Murano Z51 than its predecessors?
Nissan Murano Z51 has grown noticeably compared to the previous generation (Z50), which was reflected in the internal space and appearance. Body length increased by 80 mm, and the wheelbase increased by 28 mm, which had a positive effect on the comfort of second-row passengers. At the same time, the designers managed to maintain dynamic proportions due to the sloping roof line and aggressive front bumper.
The table below shows the exact dimensions of the model:
| Parameter | Meaning | For comparison (Murano Z50) |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4898 mm | 4818 mm |
| Width | 1938 mm | 1928 mm |
| Height | 1715 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2825 mm | 2797 mm |
| Clearance | 180 mm | 175 mm |
The curb weight of the crossover is 1850–1950 kg depending on the configuration, and the total weight reaches 2450 kg. It's on 100–150 kg heavierthan its predecessor, which is due to the reinforced platform and additional equipment. Despite this, Murano Z51 maintains good handling thanks to optimized suspension and system Active Ride Control, which minimizes roll in corners.
⚠️ Attention: When installing non-standard wheels with a diameter of more than20 inchesclearance may decrease to165–170 mm, which will affect cross-country ability on unpaved roads.
Suspension and handling: How does the third-generation Murano ride?
Platform Nissan D, on which it is built Murano Z51, has been significantly improved compared to previous versions. Engineers applied multi-link rear suspension instead of a torsion beam, which improved smoothness and stability at high speeds. The front retains the classic layout. MacPherson, but with reinforced racks and new silent blocks.
Key features of the chassis:
- 🔄 Adaptive dampers (in top trim levels) with electronic stiffness control
- 🛡️ System Active Ride Control — automatically brakes the wheels when driving over uneven surfaces
- 🔄 Electric power steering with variable force (3 modes:
Comfort,Standard,Sport) - 🚗 System Intelligent Trace Control — helps maintain trajectory in turns
In everyday use Murano Z51 demonstrates excellent ride quality, comparable to premium crossovers like Lexus RX or Volvo XC60. However, its off-road capabilities are limited due to the lack of differential locks and low-profile tires in basic versions. For light offroading, the mode is suitable AWD Lock, which forcibly distributes the moment 50:50 between axes.
When buying used Murano Z51 be sure to check the condition of the rear shock absorbers - they most often fail after 80–100 thousand km.
Fuel consumption: real numbers vs factory data
Official fuel consumption for Nissan Murano Z51 with engine VQ35DE and the variator is:
- City: 12.5 l/100 km
- Route: 7.8 l/100 km
- Mixed cycle: 9.8 l/100 km
However, real owners note that in the conditions of Russian roads and climate these figures are overestimated by 15–20%.
Factors affecting consumption:
- 🛣️ Gasoline quality - the use of AI-92 instead of AI-95 increases the cost of
0.5–1 l/100 km - ❄️ Winter operation — warming up and operation of the stove add
1–2 l/100 km - 🔧 Driving style — aggressive acceleration with a CVT increases consumption to
14–16 l/100 kmin the city - 🚗 Loading — each additional passenger or 100 kg of cargo increases consumption by
0.3–0.5 l/100 km
To reduce consumption it is recommended:
- Use mode
Eco Mode, which opens the throttle valve more softly - Monitor tire pressure (optimally
2.3–2.5 bar) - Avoid prolonged idling (consumption ~
1.5 l/hour)
How to check real fuel consumption?
Fill up the tank and reset the odometer. Drive 200–300 km as usual, then refuel again until the tank is full. Divide the number of liters filled by the kilometers traveled and multiply by 100. For example, if you filled 25 liters for 280 km, then the consumption will be ~8.9 l/100 km.
Equipment and multimedia: what does the Murano Z51 offer?
Nissan Murano Z51 received one of the most advanced multimedia systems in the line at that time Nissan — NissanConnect with 8-inch touch screen. In top trim levels the system was installed Bose Premium Audio with 11 speakers, including a subwoofer. Also available:
- 📱 Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (since 2018)
- 🚗 All-round view Around View Monitor with 4 cameras
- 🔊 Voice control for navigation and media
- 🌐 3G modem with Wi-Fi access point (optional)
Among the security systems it is worth highlighting:
- 🚨 Intelligent Emergency Braking — automatic emergency braking
- 👁️ Blind Spot Warning — monitoring of blind spots
- 🚦 Predictive Forward Collision Warning - collision warning with the vehicle ahead
- 🅿️ Intelligent Parking Assist — semi-automatic parking
⚠️ Attention: In models before 2017, the system NissanConnect often freezes when connecting smartphones via Bluetooth. The problem can be solved by updating the firmware from an official dealer.
Weaknesses and typical problems of the Murano Z51
Despite the reliability of the platform, Murano Z51 There are several “diseases” that you should know about before purchasing:
- 🔥 CVT Xtronic - in case of untimely oil change (every
60 thousand km) begins to twitch and overheat. Repair costs150–250 thousand rubles. - 🔊 Wheel bearings - fail after
80–100 thousand km, sign - hum at speed60–80 km/h - 💡 LED headlights - fade over time and require replacement of blocks (
20–30 thousand rubles.for the headlight) - 🔋 Battery — a weak standard battery lasts no more than
3–4 years, especially in cold weather
Owners also complain about:
- Noisy engine operation VQ35DE to cold (the problem is solved by changing the oil to
5W-30) - Plastic creaks in the cabin (especially in the dashboard area)
- Fogging of headlights in rainy weather (requires cleaning of drainage holes)
Service history (especially oil changes in the variator)
Condition of the wheel bearings (spinning the wheel while hanging)
CVT operation (smooth acceleration, no jerking)
Integrity of paintwork (paint on the hood and bumper often peels off)
Electronics functionality (cameras, sensors, multimedia) -->
Comparison with competitors: why does the Murano Z51 stand out?
In my class Nissan Murano Z51 competes with models such as Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento And Ford Edge. Its key advantages:
- 💺 More spacious interior (especially in width) thanks to the body
E-segment - 🎨 Unique design with a “floating” roof and an aggressive front end
- 🛡️ Rich equipment in basic configurations (for example, all-round visibility is already available in
Comfort) - 💰 Lower cost of ownership compared to premium crossovers
However, according to some parameters Murano inferior to competitors:
- 🛢️ Higher fuel consumption compared to Toyota Highlander Hybrid (
7.5 l/100 km) - 🚗 No diesel engine (unlike Hyundai Santa Fe)
- 🔧 Less reliable variatorthan the classic “automatic” Kia Sorento
Compared to the previous generation (Z50), then Z51 wins by:
- Comfort (multi-link suspension vs torsion beam)
- Security (more electronic assistants)
- Design (more modern and dynamic)
But loses in ease of repair (for example, replacing headlight bulbs now requires removing the bumper).
The Nissan Murano Z51 is an ideal choice for those who value comfort, stylish design and rich equipment, but do not plan serious off-roading or saving on fuel.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Murano Z51
❓ Which engine is more reliable: 3.5 V6 or e-Power hybrid?
Engine VQ35DE (3.5 V6) is considered more reliable and proven - its resource with proper maintenance reaches 300–350 thousand km. Hybrid version e-Power more economical, but its long-term reliability has not yet been confirmed due to the small number of copies and short service life. In addition, repairing a hybrid system is significantly more expensive.
❓ Is it possible to tow a trailer with a Murano Z51?
Yes, Murano Z51 allows towing a trailer weighing up to 900 kg (without brakes) or 1500 kg (with brakes). However, it is important to consider that:
- When towing, fuel consumption increases to
14–16 l/100 km - CVT Xtronic does not like long-term loads - it is recommended to install an additional cooling radiator
- If the permissible weight is exceeded, an error may occur
Check Transmission
To tow, you must activate the mode Tow Mode in the transmission settings.
❓ What kind of oil should I pour into the Murano Z51 variator?
The manufacturer recommends using original liquid Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 (article KLE52-00004). Analogues:
- Idemitsu CVTF
- Ravenol CVT Fluid
- Mobil CVT Fluid
90 thousand km). When operating in difficult conditions (towing, off-road, frequent traffic jams), the interval is reduced to 40–50 thousand km.
❓ Why does the Murano Z51 lose price so quickly on the secondary market?
Main reasons:
- 💲 High cost of maintenance (original spare parts and oil for the variator are expensive)
- 🔧 Difficulties with CVT repair — not all services undertake to restore it
- 🚗 Competition with more reliable models (For example, Toyota Highlander or Mazda CX-9)
- 📉 Low demand for large crossovers due to rising fuel prices
However Murano Z51 remains a profitable purchase for those who are looking for a comfortable and stylish car at an adequate price (on the secondary market, models from 2015–2017 cost 1.8–2.5 million rub.).
❓ Is it possible to install gas equipment on Murano Z51?
Technically install HBO on Murano Z51 you can, but this is associated with a number of risks:
- 🔥 Increased load on the variator - the engine loses gas
10–15% power, which makes the variator work in a more intense mode - 🛡️ Loss of warranty (if the car is under warranty)
- 💡 Electronics problems - errors may appear
Check Enginedue to unstable operation on gas
If you still decide to install HBO, choose systems 4th generation with lambda probe emulator and customization VQ35DE. Average installation cost - 50–70 thousand rubles..