The history of automobile design has many turning points, but the emergence Nissan Murano The first generation in 2003 was a real blow to the conservative market. This car not only offered a new class of cars, it revolutionized the idea of what a city SUV should look like. Bright, round, devoid of sharp corners and rough lines, it contrasted sharply with angular competitors like Ford Explorer or Toyota 4Runner of that time.
For many buyers, this crossover has become a symbol of success and the availability of premium comfort. Under the hood was a powerful unit that provided dynamics inaccessible to many sedans of that time. However, like any car with significant mileage, Nissan Murano 2003 has its own nuances that must be taken into account before purchasing or during operation.
Design and concept: A revolution in appearance
When you see this car for the first time, it cannot be confused with anyone else. Nissan designers took a bold step by abandoning the traditional rectangular body shape in favor of streamlined lines. This solution made it possible to reduce aerodynamic drag and give the car a futuristic look that is still relevant even after two decades.
A feature of the exterior was the huge windows, creating the effect of a “floating roof”, and a unique radiator grille, which later became the brand’s trademark. You will immediately notice that the front of the car appears very wide and massive, which gives it confidence on the road. The rear pillars are made in black, which visually makes the cabin a separate structural element.
Inside the cabin, the atmosphere is more reminiscent of a luxury minivan than an SUV. The high driving position provides excellent visibility, and the smooth lines of the dashboard do not hurt the eyes. The finishing materials are selected to create a feeling of luxury, although over time the plastic may begin to creak.
Technical stuffing: Engine and transmission
With my heart Nissan Murano 2003 is the legendary 3.5-liter petrol engine of the series VQ35DE. This unit is considered one of the best engines in the history of the Japanese automotive industry. It develops a power of 245 horsepower, which is an excellent indicator for a heavy crossover. In combination with the all-wheel drive system, the car feels confident not only in the city, but also on light off-road conditions.
The main feature of the design is the absence of a traditional fixed-speed gearbox. Instead, engineers installed a variator Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This solution made it possible to achieve a smooth ride and high fuel efficiency, but it was this unit that became the “Achilles heel” of the entire model.
The variator requires utmost attention. He does not like sudden starts from a standstill and prolonged operation at high speeds without load. If you plan to operate the car in aggressive mode, you will have to change the oil frequently and monitor the condition of the valve body. Ignoring these requirements can lead to costly repairs.
- ✅ The VQ35DE engine is highly reliable with timely oil changes every 7-10 thousand km.
- ❌ The variator requires an oil change every 40-50 thousand km, otherwise the belt transmission may fail.
- ⚙️ All-Mode 4x4-i all-wheel drive system automatically distributes torque between the axles.
⚠️ Attention: When buying a car with a mileage of more than 150,000 km, be sure to check the condition of the variator for shocks and jerks when switching modes. This is the most critical node.
Comfort and interior equipment
Salon Nissan Murano The first generation was designed with an emphasis on the convenience of rear-row passengers. There is more than enough legroom here, and the headrests are height adjustable. The front seats are equipped with heating and 记忆的 (memory) position settings, a rarity for cars of this class at the time.
The multimedia system installed from the factory looks outdated even for today. It only supports CDs and has a basic display. However, many owners independently replace the “standard” head with modern multimedia systems with screens and Android Auto support, which significantly expands the functionality.
The climate system works efficiently, quickly warming up the interior in winter. However, due to the large volume of glass, in summer the air conditioner may work at its limit. Noise insulation is average, but at high speeds you can hear noise from the wheel arches and wind.
- Engine reliability
- Interior comfort
- Maintenance cost
- Acceleration dynamics
Operational nuances and weaknesses
Despite its overall reliability, this model does have some specific issues that you need to be aware of. The body is made of galvanized metal, which is good, but the paint on it is quite thin. Small stones can easily leave chips, which over time turn into pockets of corrosion, especially on arches and sills.
The car's suspension is soft and energy-intensive, which is ideal for Russian roads with poor surfaces. But you have to pay for comfort with the resource of elements. Lever silent blocks, shock absorbers and support bearings require replacement more often than competitors with rigid suspension. The rear multi-link has a complex design, which complicates repairs.
Electrics can also fail. A common problem is the failure of throttle position sensors, which leads to loss of traction and rough engine operation. It is also worth monitoring the condition of the wiring in the doors, since over time the wires in the corrugation break.
☑️ Checklist before purchasing
⚠️ Attention: Do not buy a car if you feel a strong vibration or hear a knock when switching the selector from Park to Drive. This is a sure sign of wear on the variator.
Repair and maintenance: What the owner needs to know
Service Nissan Murano 2003 does not require exotic tools or specific knowledge, but requires strict adherence to regulations. The most important procedure is changing the oil in the engine and variator. Use only original fluids or their high-quality analogues approved by Nissan.
For the VQ35DE engine, it is critical to monitor the timing chain tension. On runs over 150 thousand kilometers, the chain can stretch, which will lead to failures in the valve timing. If you hear a metallic ringing noise during a cold start, contact a professional immediately.
Parts for this model are available in most stores as the platform has been used on other Nissan models such as Altima and Maxima. This makes it easier to find suspension parts and engine components. However, original body parts can be expensive.
Hidden information about fuel consumption
In a real urban cycle, fuel consumption can reach 18-20 liters per 100 km, especially in traffic jams and during active driving. On the highway at a speed of 90-100 km/h, consumption drops to 10-11 liters.
Comparison with competitors of the time
In 2003, there were not many competitors on the market that could pose a real threat Nissan Murano. Infiniti FX35 was sportier and more expensive, but inferior in comfort. Toyota Highlander was more practical and reliable, but looked much more boring and utilitarian.
The only serious rival in style can be considered Acura MDX, which offered a sportier character but was significantly more expensive. Murano It also occupied the unique niche of an “affordable stylish crossover”, offering a premium experience at the price of a regular SUV.
| Model | Engine | Power (hp) | Gearbox | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Murano 2003 | 3.5 V6 | 245 | CVT (CVT) | Stylish design, comfort |
| Toyota Highlander | 3.0 V6 | 210 | Automatic (4AT) | Reliability, spacious interior |
| Infiniti FX35 | 3.5 V6 | 280 | Automatic (5AT) | Sporty character, price |
| Acura MDX | 3.5 V6 | 250 | Automatic (5AT) | Premium comfort, all-wheel drive |
Before purchasing, be sure to check the condition of the variator cooling radiators. They often become clogged with dirt, which leads to overheating of the transmission.
Results: Should you buy in 2026?
Purchase Nissan Murano 2003 today is a conscious choice in favor of style and comfort, rather than absolute reliability. This car will give you driving emotions and a premium feeling, but will require investment in maintenance. If you find one with a neat history and a fresh CVT, it will be a great companion for many years to come.
The main risk lies in the transmission. If the previous owner ignored the regulations for changing the oil in the variator, repairs may cost more than the cost of the car itself. Therefore, when inspecting, pay special attention to this unit, and not just the appearance of the body.
Overall, this is a car with character that never gets old. It stands out in the flow and attracts attention. The risk of failure of the variator with a mileage of over 200,000 km is the main factor reducing the liquidity of the model in the secondary market. But for those who are willing to take care of their car, this is an excellent choice.
The 2003 Nissan Murano is an emotional vehicle that requires regular, quality driveline maintenance for a long life.
What is the real service life of the VQ35DE engine in a Murano 2003?
Provided that the oil is changed in a timely manner and high-quality fuel is used, the VQ35DE engine is capable of traveling more than 300,000 kilometers without major repairs. However, it is important to monitor the condition of the timing chain and hydraulic compensators.
How reliable is the CVT on this car?
The CVT variator is the weakest point of the model. Its lifespan greatly depends on driving style and regular maintenance. On average, without major repairs, it lasts up to 150,000 - 180,000 km, but with proper care it can last longer.
What are the main electrical problems?
Common problems include failure of the throttle sensors, malfunctioning power windows and failure of tire pressure sensors (if equipped with a TPMS system). It is also worth checking the wiring in the door hinges.
Is it possible to use a car for trips to the country?
Yes, the All-Mode 4x4-i all-wheel drive system allows you to confidently drive on dirt roads and light off-road conditions. However, due to the low ground clearance and long overhangs, caution must be used in deep mud or on steep inclines.