Nissan Murano 2.5 (Z51): everything you need to know before you buy

Nissan Murano second generation (Z51) with engine 2.5 l — one of the most controversial crossovers on the Russian market. On the one hand, this is a stylish and spacious car with a premium finish, and on the other, a model with a controversial reputation due to problems with CVT and high fuel consumption. In this article we will analyze all the key aspects: from technical characteristics to operating nuances that are rarely mentioned in showrooms.

Murano 2.5 is not just a “smaller” version with a motor VQ35DE, but a separate modification aimed at markets with high taxes on engine displacement. Such cars were not officially supplied to Russia, so most copies are “gray” imports from the USA or Japan. This affects the price, warranty and even the availability of spare parts. What follows is an honest analysis without embellishment.

Technical specifications Nissan Murano 2.5 (Z51)

Under the hood Murano 2.5 installed naturally aspirated petrol engine QR25DE - the same as on Nissan X-Trail T31 or Teana J32. However, it is not the classic “automatic” that works in tandem with it, but stepless variator Jatco JF011E, which became the main “headache” for the owners. Main parameters:

• 🔹 Engine capacity: 2488 cm³
• 🔹 Power: 175 hp at 6000 rpm
• 🔹 Torque: 233 Nm at 2800 rpm
• 🔹 Transmission: variator JF011E with 6-stage simulation
• 🔹 Drive: full AWD (plug-in)
• 🔹 Acceleration 0–100 km/h: 10.5–11.2 sec (depending on the year of manufacture)
• 🔹 Max. speed: 190 km/h (electronically limited)

It is worth noting that Murano 2.5 weighs about 1.8–1.9 tons - this is 100–150 kg lighter than the version with VQ35DE, but for a 2.5-liter engine the weight is still too big. Hence the poor dynamics and increased fuel consumption. Official consumption data - 9.8 l/100 km combined cycle, but real owners report figures in 12–15 l/100 km in the city (especially in winter).

Parameter	Nissan Murano 2.5 (QR25DE)	Nissan Murano 3.5 (VQ35DE)
Power, hp	175	234–265 (depending on year)
Torque, Nm	233	336–366
Fuel consumption (city), l/100 km	12–15	14–17
Engine life, km	300,000+ (with service)	350 000+
Cost of ownership (spare parts, consumables)	High (variator, suspension)	Very high (engine, transmission)

⚠️ Attention: CVT JF011E on Murano 2.5 identical to the one installed on Nissan Qashqai J10/J11 And X-Trail T31/T32. His weak points are oil overheating and belt wear due to slipping. If the car was operated in off-road conditions or with a trailer, the risk of transmission failure increases by 2–3 times.

Pros and cons of Nissan Murano 2.5: honest analysis

Before you buy Murano 2.5, weigh the pros and cons. This crossover is not for everyone - and here's why.

Advantages of the model

• 🚗 Spacious interior: despite the smaller engine capacity, the body dimensions and wheelbase are identical to version 3.5. Fits in trunk 453 liters (1687 l with seats folded).
• 💺 Comfort suspension: soft shock absorber tuning and a long wheelbase (2825 mm) ensure a smooth ride even on rough roads.
• 🎨 Design and finishing: premium materials (leather, soft plastic), high-quality assembly (for its time) and a memorable exterior.
• 🔧 Ease of engine repair: QR25DE — one of the most reliable Nissan engines. With regular oil changes (every 7–8 thousand km), mileage in 400+ thousand km - not uncommon.

Disadvantages and pitfalls

• ⚠️ CVT JF011E: the main "scourge" of the model. Average resource - 150–200 thousand km, after which a major repair or replacement is required (price from 250 thousand rubles).
• ⛽ Fuel consumption: Contrary to expectations, the 2.5-liter engine is not much more economical than the 3.5-liter. In the city the consumption reaches 15 l/100 km.
• 💰 Expensive service: original spare parts (especially for all-wheel drive and suspension) are expensive. For example, stabilizer struts will cost 10–15 thousand rubles. for a couple.
• 🔌 Electronics: frequent problems with ABS sensors, climate control unit and touch panel (on restyled versions).

If you need a reliable family crossover, Murano 2.5 - not the best choice. It is suitable for those who are willing to put up with high fuel costs and CVT repairs for the sake of comfort and style. For pragmatic buyers, it is better to consider Nissan X-Trail with the same engine or Toyota RAV4 (4th generation) with a classic automatic transmission.

Typical problems and how to avoid them

Even with careful use Nissan Murano 2.5 has a number of “diseases” that you should know about in advance. Some of them are critical, others are simply annoying in everyday use.

1. CVT JF011E: symptoms of malfunction

The first signs of problems with the variator:

• 🔴 Jerks during acceleration (especially when “cold”).
• 🔴 Delays when switching modes (D → R or R → D).
• 🔴 Hum or whistle from under the hood (cone bearing wear).
• 🔴 The appearance of metal shavings in the oil (checked when replacing).

To extend the life of the variator:

Oil change every 60 thousand km (original only NS-2 or NS-3)

Checking the oil level every 10 thousand km (via dipstick)

Avoid towing and sudden starts

Install an additional variator cooling radiator (optional)

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Repair cost: Replacing the belt and cones will cost 120–180 thousand rubles., complete overhaul - up to 250 thousand rubles.. The new variator assembly is worth 300–350 thousand rubles. (used - from 150 thousand rubles, but the risk of running into a “killed” copy is high).

2. Engine QR25DE: weak points

The motor itself is reliable, but there are some nuances:

• 🔧 Crankshaft oil seal leak: appears after 150 thousand km. The sign is oil stains under the front of the car.
• 🔧 Throttle valve contamination: requires cleaning every 50–60 thousand km (otherwise the speed fluctuates).
• 🔧 Problems with ignition coils: Over 200 thousand km, misfires may appear.

Engine life with proper maintenance - 400+ thousand km. The main thing is not to skimp on oil (it is recommended 5W-30 or 5W-40 with permission API SN) and change it strictly according to the regulations.

3. Suspension and steering

Murano is a heavy car, so the suspension wears out faster than that of compact crossovers:

• 🔄 Stabilizer links: “live” 30–50 thousand km (when driving on bad roads).
• 🔄 Front control arm bushings: they begin to creak after 100 thousand km.
• 🔄 Steering rack: On runs over 150 thousand km, backlash may appear.

Average cost of replacing front stabilizer struts - 10–15 thousand rubles. (per pair), rear - 8–12 thousand rubles.. Lever bushings will cost 3–5 thousand rubles. per set.

What to do if Murano 2.5 does not start?

If the starter turns, but the engine does not start:

1. Check fuses (especially ECU And Top).

2. Make sure there is fuel in the gas tank (the level sensor may be lying).

3. Check the spark on the spark plugs (a common problem is failure of the ignition coils).

4. If the variator is in emergency mode (Check Engine + flashing “D”), reset the errors with the scanner (possibly blocking due to a transmission malfunction).

Owner reviews: real operating experience

To form an objective opinion about Nissan Murano 2.5, we analyzed reviews from owners on the forums (Drive2, Drom.ru) and in thematic groups. Here's what they say:

Positive Feedback

• ⭐ "A machine for the soul, not for the mind" - this is how many owners characterize Murano. The design still looks modern, the interior is spacious and cozy.
• ⭐ "Engine QR25DE - tank" — with proper maintenance, the engine runs without problems. Some owners note mileage in 500+ thousand km without capital.
• ⭐ “Better in winter than many “German” crossovers” — four-wheel drive AWD It works confidently in the snow, and the climate control quickly warms up the interior.

Negative reviews

• 👎 "The CVT is a lottery" - some drive 200 thousand km without problems, others encounter breakdowns already at 100 thousand km. The risk is especially high when buying a used car with an unknown history.
• 👎 "Fuel consumption is like a jeep" - it really works in the city 14–15 l/100 km, which is comparable to the 3.5-liter version.
• 👎 "Expensive to repair" - even replacing brake pads is more expensive than Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V.

Interesting fact: many owners Murano 2.5 after the sale they are transferred to Mazda CX-5 or Hyundai Santa Fe - more reliable and economical alternatives. However, those who remain loyal to Murano do so for the sake of comfort and image.

1. Service history of the variator (there must be records of oil changes).

2. Condition of the transmission cooling radiator (often clogged with dirt).

3. Presence of errors Check Engine (even if the light is not on, they could have reset it).

4. Mileage on the odometer - many “twist” it before selling it (the average real mileage for 2010–2012 is 150–200 thousand km).-->

Comparison with competitors: which is better to choose?

If you are considering Nissan Murano 2.5, most likely, you are interested in other crossovers of a similar class. Let's compare it with its main competitors in key parameters:

Parameter	Nissan Murano 2.5	Toyota RAV4 2.5	Honda CR-V 2.4	Mazda CX-5 2.5
Power, hp	175	176–180	166–185	194
Transmission	CVT	6-automatic	5-automatic transmission / CVT	6-automatic
Fuel consumption (city), l/100 km	12–15	10–12	9–11	10–12
Transmission reliability	Low (variator)	High	Average	High
Cost of ownership	High	Average	Average	Low

As can be seen from the table, Murano 2.5 loses to competitors in terms of transmission reliability and efficiency. His main trump cards are spacious salon And premium finish. If these parameters are your priority, and your maintenance budget allows, then Murano could be a good choice. In other cases, it is more rational to pay attention to Toyota RAV4 or Mazda CX-5.

Prices on the market and what affects the cost

On the secondary market Nissan Murano 2.5 (2008–2014) can be found ranging from 800 thousand to 1.5 million rubles.. The price depends on the following factors:

• 📅 Year of manufacture: cars 2012–2014 20–30% more expensive compared to 2008–2010.
• 🔧 Variator condition: if there are records of oil changes and there are no jerks, this is a plus of 100–150 thousand rubles. to the price.
• 🛠️ Availability of guarantee: Some dealers provide a warranty on the CVT (usually 1 year or 20 thousand km), which increases the cost by 50–80 thousand rubles.
• 🎨 Equipment: cars with a leather interior, a sunroof and a rear view camera are 100–200 thousand rubles more expensive.
• 📄 Ownership history: one owner + service book is always a plus.

Average prices by region (at the beginning of 2026):

• 📍 Moscow and region: 1.2–1.5 million rub.
• 📍 St. Petersburg: 1.1–1.4 million rub.
• 📍 Regions (millions): 900 thousand – 1.2 million rubles.
• 📍 Small towns: 800–1 million rub. (but the risk of running into a “killed” car is higher).

⚠️ Attention: Be careful with cars imported from the USA. Many of them have problems with electronics (due to different network voltage) and corrosion (if you traveled to snowy states). Before purchasing, request an inspection via Carfax or AutoCheck.

Recommendations for operation and tuning

If you are already the owner Nissan Murano 2.5 or are planning to buy it, these tips will help you save on repairs and improve comfort:

1. CVT maintenance

To extend life JF011E:

• 🛢️ Oil change: every 60 thousand km (at least!). Use only original oil Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2 or NS-3.
• 🔥 Additional cooling: install a separate radiator for the variator (the cost of the kit is about 20 thousand rubles).
• 🚫 Avoid: towing, sudden starts, long slips.

2. Improved dynamics

Motor QR25DE You can "swing it up" a little:

• 🔧 Chip tuning: ECU firmware adds 10–15 hp. and improves responsiveness (cost: 15–25 thousand rubles).
• 💨 Inlet and outlet: installing a zero filter and forward flow gives an increase of 5–8 hp, but worsens the life of the motor.
• ⚡ Iridium spark plugs: NGK IFR6T11 or Denso IK20 improve pickup at high speeds.

However, remember: any tuning increases the load on the variator, so without strengthening it (for example, installing roller mechanism instead of a belt) it’s better not to experiment.

3. Suspension and handling

To improve handling:

• 🔄 Replacing shock absorbers: original (Kayaba or Hitachi) soft, but short-lived. Alternative - Bilstein B4 or KYB Excel-G.
• 🔄 Installation of spacers: front stiffener brace (e.g. Ultra Racing) reduces roll when cornering.
• 🔄 Tires: optimal size - 235/65 R18. Best choice for winter Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 or Michelin X-Ice North.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Murano 2.5

❓ Is it possible to tow a trailer with Murano 2.5?

Officially Nissan Murano 2.5 Not designed for towing trailers. Maximum permissible weight - 900 kg (with brakes), but in practice a CVT JF011E not designed for such loads. The risk of overheating and premature wear is extremely high. If you need a car for a trailer, consider Nissan Pathfinder or Toyota 4Runner.

❓ What kind of oil should I pour into the QR25DE engine?

Recommended oils:

• 🔹 Nissan Motor Oil 5W-30 (original)
• 🔹 Mobil 1 5W-30 (API SN)
• 🔹 Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30

Refill volume - 4.6 liters (with filter replacement). Replacement interval - 7–8 thousand km (or once a year).

❓ How to check the CVT when buying a used Murano?

Verification algorithm:

1. Check oil level (must be between MIN And MAX on the dipstick). The color of the oil is light, without a burning smell.
2. Test smooth ride: There should be no jerks during acceleration.
3. Listen extraneous sounds: A hum or grinding noise is a sign of bearing wear.
4. Check errors scanner (even if Check Engine does not light up).
5. Check with the seller Has the oil been changed? in the variator and when.

If even one point is in doubt, refuse to purchase.

❓ How much does a major overhaul of the JF011E variator cost?

The cost depends on the amount of work:

• 🔹 Replacing the belt and cones: 120–180 thousand rubles.
• 🔹 Major repairs (with replacement of hydraulic unit): 200–250 thousand rubles.
• 🔹 New variator assembly: 300–350 thousand rubles.
• 🔹 Used variator (contract): 150–200 thousand rubles. (risk of running into a “dead” specimen).

Repair time is from 3 days to 2 weeks (depending on the availability of spare parts).

❓ Which similar crossovers are more reliable than Murano 2.5?

If you're concerned about CVT problems, consider:

• 🚗 Toyota RAV4 (4th generation, 2013–2018) — reliable 2.5-liter engine + 6-automatic transmission.
• 🚗 Honda CR-V (4th generation, 2012–2017) — 2.4-liter engine with a CVT, but more reliable than that of Nissan.
• 🚗 Mazda CX-5 (1st generation, 2012–2017) — 2.5-liter engine + 6-automatic transmission, low fuel consumption.
• 🚗 Subaru Forester (3rd generation, 2012–2018) — four-wheel drive Symmetrical AWD and variator Lineartronic (more reliable than Nissan).