Crossover Nissan Murano The third generation, released in 2015, marked a real turning point in the brand's design and engineering. The car received an aggressive, almost futuristic appearance, which distinguished it from conservative competitors, and at the same time retained its reputation as a reliable family car. Under the hood lies a time-tested 3.5-liter V6 engine, which provides dynamics rarely found in the class of mid-size SUVs.
Owners often note that Murano 2015 is not just a vehicle, but a cozy space for travel. The interior is decorated with soft materials, and the front seats with massage function and heating create an atmosphere of premium comfort. However, like any complex mechanism, this model has its own characteristics that must be taken into account when purchasing and operating, especially when it comes to Jatco CVT and the specifics of the suspension.
Design and exterior: Futurism on the roads
The 2015 car's appearance has been the subject of heated debate, but there's no denying how memorable it is. The designers used the "Swoop" concept, creating flowing roof lines that converge toward the rear, reminiscent of a drop of water. LED optics with its characteristic “boomerang” shape, it became the model’s calling card, making it recognizable even in the dark. The front bumper with large air intakes gives the car a sporty and aggressive look.
The rear end also deserves attention: a massive trunk lid with an integrated spoiler and narrow taillights create the effect of a wide, stable track. As standard, the body is painted in single colors, but many owners opt for a two-tone roof, which visually lightens the massive silhouette. Wheel rims diameter 20 inches fill the arches almost completely, emphasizing the status of the car.
Aerodynamics is another plus of the appearance. Drag coefficient 0.31 allows the car to easily cut through the air, which has a positive effect on fuel consumption and noise levels on the highway. Pay attention to the rear-view mirrors: they are equipped not only with heating, but also with integrated turn signals, and in expensive versions with all-round cameras.
⚠️ Attention: Due to the complex shape of the body and the large number of chrome elements, body polishing requires a special approach. Aggressive abrasive pastes can damage the roof covering, especially if a two-tone paint scheme is chosen.
Interior and ergonomics: Business class comfort
Once inside, you immediately understand why this car was positioned as a “sofa on wheels.” Zero Gravity seats, designed using NASA data, actually reduce stress on the spine during long trips. Interior materials, including leather Nappa and wooden inserts, assembled to a high level, although in some places you can find hard plastic. Space in the back row allows you to comfortably accommodate three adult passengers, and a huge panoramic sunroof adds air.
The center console is designed in the shape of an arch, which separates the space between the driver and front passenger, creating the feeling of a pilot's cockpit. The Nissan Connect multimedia system supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (in updated versions), allowing easy smartphone integration. The dashboard with a classic analog clock in the center looks elegant and does not distract from the road.
The control ergonomics are thought out to the smallest detail: all the main buttons are within reach, and the steering wheel has a convenient shape and is adjustable for reach and tilt. However, it is worth noting that due to the panoramic roof and high window line, rear visibility can be difficult, so a surround-view camera system becomes not just an option, but a necessity.
- 🛋️ Leather seats with position memory for driver and front passenger.
- 🌡️ Climate control with zone control and air ionizer.
- 🔊 Audio system Bose with 11 speakers and a subwoofer for deep bass.
⚠️ Attention: Interior electronics are sensitive to temperature changes. If you park for a long time in severe frost or heat, the multimedia may malfunction, so it is recommended to warm up the car before actively using the functions.
- SV
- SL
- Platinum
- Tekna
Technical characteristics and engines
In 2015 Nissan Murano was offered with one type of power unit, which had already proven its reliability in previous generations. This is a naturally aspirated petrol engine VQ35DE volume 3.5 liters. It develops power 249 horsepower and torque 324 Nm. This engine is characterized by high torque at low speeds, which makes it easy to overtake on the highway and confidently start from a traffic light.
The engine is paired with a Jatco JF011E variator (CVT), which imitates the operation of a classic automatic transmission, switching virtual gears. All-wheel drive system All Mode 4x4-i automatically distributes torque between axles depending on road conditions. In standard mode, the rear axle receives up to 40% of the power, which provides excellent stability on wet roads or light off-road conditions.
The dynamics of acceleration to 100 km/h is about 7.5–8.0 seconds, which is an excellent indicator for a crossover weighing more than 1.8 tons. The maximum speed is electronically limited to 210 km/h. Fuel consumption in the combined cycle fluctuates around 11–12 liters per 100 km, but with active driving in the city it can reach 15 liters.
| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5 L V6 (249 hp) |
| Transmission | CVT (CVT) |
| Drive | Front or Full (4x4) |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.5 l/100 km |
To preserve engine life, it is recommended to use only high-quality oils with a 5W-30 tolerance and change them every 7-8 thousand km, even if the regulations state 15 thousand.
Transmission and drive features
Jatco CVT installed on Murano 2015, requires special attention. This is a complex device that does not like sudden starts and overheating. With proper use, the service life of the box can reach 150–200 thousand kilometers, but many owners encounter problems ahead of schedule. It is important to monitor the condition of the belt and cones, and also change the transmission fluid regularly.
All-wheel drive system All Mode 4x4-i has several operating modes: Auto, Off and Lock. Lock mode locks the clutch and sends 50% of the power to the rear wheels, which is useful when driving through mud or snow at speeds up to 30 km/h. Once this speed is exceeded, the system automatically switches to Auto mode to prevent damage to the transmission.
The crossover suspension is tuned for comfort. The front part is an independent McPherson strut, and the rear is a multi-link design. The shock absorbers are effective at absorbing small bumps, but at high speeds in corners you can feel significant body roll. This is the price to pay for the softness for which the car was created.
- 🔧 Regular oil changes in the variator every 40-50 thousand km.
- 🌡️ Temperature control transmissions on long trips.
- 🚫 Avoiding slippage and extreme loads on the gearbox.
☑️ Check before purchase
Frequent problems with the variator
The main problems include overheating, valve body wear and belt stretching. Symptoms: jerking during acceleration, noise, vibration. Solution: timely oil change and use of original filters.
Typical faults and maintenance
Despite the overall reliability, Nissan Murano 2015 has a number of “sores” that every potential buyer should be aware of. One of the most common problems is failure oxygen sensors, which leads to increased fuel consumption and the appearance of a Check Engine error. Owners also complain about electrical problems: parking sensors may fail or the Start-Stop system may not work correctly.
The VQ35DE engine is prone to increased oil consumption, especially over 100 thousand kilometers. This is due to the occurrence of piston rings and wear of the valve stem seals. Regular monitoring of the oil level is mandatory. In addition, antifreeze sometimes leaks in the cooling system due to aging rubber pipes and pumps.
Body parts also require attention. Chrome trim on bumpers and door handles may become dull or peel off when exposed to chemicals. Due to the panoramic roof and body design features, the windshield is more susceptible to chips, which quickly turn into cracks when temperature changes occur.
Regular maintenance and the use of original spare parts are the key to a long life of the engine and variator on the Nissan Murano. Skimping on oil or filters can lead to costly repairs.
⚠️ Attention: When buying a used car, be sure to conduct computer diagnostics of the variator. The belt and cone wear counter will show the real condition of the box, which cannot be determined by eye.
Safety and driver assistance systems
In 2015 Nissan Murano received a high safety rating thanks to a set of modern systems. Standard equipment includes up to 6 airbags, tire pressure monitoring system and active body stabilization. Systems are available in top trim levels Blind Spot Warning (blind spot monitoring) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (rear traffic warning), which significantly improve safety when changing lanes and parking.
System Intelligent Around View Monitor allows you to see the car from above and from four sides, which is especially useful when maneuvering in narrow parking lots. High-resolution cameras create a panoramic image, which is displayed on the central screen. A forward collision warning system with automatic braking is also available, which can be activated even at low speeds in traffic.
The car body is made of high-strength steel, which ensures rigidity of the body upon impact. However, it is worth considering that due to its heavy weight and high center of gravity, the crossover is more prone to rollover during sharp maneuvers compared to sedans. Therefore, it is important to adhere to the speed limit and avoid extreme driving.
Results: Should you buy in 2026?
Nissan Murano The 2015 is a car that offers incredible value for money on the aftermarket. It looks fresh and modern even after years, offering a spacious interior and rich equipment. The V6 engine provides excellent dynamics, and all-wheel drive makes the car versatile for different operating conditions.
However, the potential owner should be prepared for the costs of servicing the variator and possible problems with the electronics. If you find one with a service history and pay attention to its technical condition, this crossover will become a reliable companion for many years. The main advantage of the model is its unique design and comfort, which are not available for this money from competitors.
When choosing a car, pay attention to the condition of the body, the absence of signs of serious accidents and the serviceability of the safety systems. The test drive should include checking the operation of the variator in all modes, as well as testing all electronic functions of the interior. Correctly chosen Murano will give you driving pleasure and comfort worthy of a premium class.
What is the fuel economy of the 2015 Nissan Murano?
In the combined cycle, consumption is about 11-12 liters per 100 km. In the city, with active driving, it can reach 15-16 liters, and on the highway with a relaxed style - 8-9 liters.
Is the CVT reliable on this model?
The Jatco JF011E variator requires regular maintenance. With timely oil changes and no overheating, it can travel more than 200,000 km, but the risk of breakdown is higher than that of classic automatic machines.
Is all-wheel drive available on all trim levels?
No, in Russia and many other countries, basic configurations are equipped only with front-wheel drive. All Mode 4x4-i all-wheel drive is available in SV, SL and Platinum trim levels.
What are the main problems with the VQ35DE engine?
The main problems: increased oil consumption at high mileage, failure of ignition coils and problems with the cooling system. Regular oil changes and temperature monitoring are critical.
Is it worth buying a Murano with 150,000 km on it?
You can buy, but only if you have a full service history and after a thorough diagnosis of the engine and variator. High mileage increases the risk of costly repairs, so budget for maintenance should be set in advance.