Choice engine for Nissan Murano - a key point when buying this crossover. Not only dynamics and fuel consumption, but also reliability, maintenance costs, and sometimes driving comfort depend on the engine. Murano throughout its history, it was equipped with three main types of power units: naturally aspirated VQ35DE 3.5 l, turbocharged VQ25DD 2.5 l and a hybrid installation based on the same 2.5-liter engine. Each of them has its own pros and cons that should be considered before purchasing.

In this article we will look at all engines in detail. Nissan Murano (including generations Z50, Z51 And Z52), their technical characteristics, service life, typical problems and we will give recommendations for selection. We will pay special attention to reliability issues, since this determines how much you will spend on repairs in the future. If you are faced with a choice between gasoline and hybrid Murano, here you will find arguments for and against each option.

1. VQ35DE 3.5 l engine: legendary aspirated engine with history

VQ35DE - the most famous and widespread motor in the line Nissan Murano. This 3.5-liter V6 was installed on all generations of the crossover, starting with Z50 (2002) and ending Z52 (2021 for some markets). The motor is famous for its reliability, but it also has a number of features that are worth knowing about.

Main Features VQ35DE in Murano:

  • 🔧 Volume: 3.5 l (3498 cm³)
  • 💨 Power: 234–260 hp (depending on year and market)
  • ⚡ Torque: 328–336 Nm
  • ⛽ Fuel consumption (combined cycle): 10.5–12.5 l/100 km
  • 🛠️ Resource: 300,000–400,000 km with proper maintenance

This engine is loved by many for its predictable reliability and maintainability. However, it has weaknesses: oil consumption (especially after 150,000 km), problems with phase regulators and the timing chain. Owners also note high fuel consumption in the city - up to 14–16 liters per 100 km.

⚠️ Attention: On Murano with a mileage of more than 200,000 km, be sure to check the compression in the cylinders. A drop below 10 bar in one or more cylinders may indicate worn piston rings or valves - a typical problem for VQ35DE with high mileage.

2. VQ25DD 2.5 l: turbocharged engine with varying success

Engine VQ25DD appeared in the lineup Nissan Murano with the generation Z51 (2014) and was offered as an alternative to the 3.5-liter aspirated engine. This 2.5-liter turbocharged V6 produces 234 hp, which is comparable to VQ35DE, but at the same time had to be more economical. However, in practice, everything turned out to be not so clear.

Key Features VQ25DD:

  • 🔧 Volume: 2.5 l (2495 cm³)
  • 💨 Power: 234 hp (at 5600 rpm)
  • ⚡ Torque: 366 Nm (at 4000 rpm)
  • ⛽ Fuel consumption (declared): 9.5–11 l/100 km
  • 🛠️ Resource: 200,000–250,000 km (with careful operation)

The main problem with this motor is turbine. On runs over 100,000 km, problems with its operation often begin: oil burns, loss of power, noise. Owners also complain about overheating And problems with the cooling system, especially in hot climates. On the other side, VQ25DD more economical than the 3.5-liter version and better suited for quiet driving.

📊 Which engine do you think is the best for the Nissan Murano?
  • VQ35DE 3.5 l
  • VQ25DD 2.5L turbo
  • Hybrid 2.5 l
  • I find it difficult to answer

3. Hybrid version: savings or headaches?

Hybrid Nissan Murano with engine VQ25DD + electric motor appeared in 2015 and was positioned as a more economical and environmentally friendly option. However, in practice this version turned out to be ambiguous. The power of the hybrid is 250 hp, and fuel consumption in the combined cycle is about 8.5 l/100 km.

Advantages of hybrid Murano:

  • ⚡ Economical: 15–20% lower fuel consumption compared to gasoline versions
  • 🌿 Environmental friendliness: meets standards EURO 6 and above
  • 🔋 Smooth ride: The electric motor smoothes out jerks during acceleration

But there are also serious disadvantages:

  • 💸 Expensive service: replacing a battery can cost 150,000–200,000 rubles
  • 🛠️ Difficulty of repair: not every service takes on hybrid systems Nissan
  • ⚠️ Low reliability: problems with the inverter and battery cooling system after 100,000 km

Hybrid Murano Suitable for those who value efficiency and are prepared for high maintenance costs. For most buyers, petrol versions remain a more practical choice.

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Before purchasing a Murano Hybrid, be sure to check the battery's service history. If the previous owner did not take care of the cooling system, the battery life may be reduced to 80,000–100,000 km.

4. Comparison of engines: characteristics table

To make it easier to compare all available motors for Nissan Murano, we have compiled a table with key parameters. Pay attention to the difference in service life, fuel consumption and maintenance costs - this will help you make an informed choice.

Parameter VQ35DE 3.5 l VQ25DD 2.5 l (turbo) Hybrid 2.5 l + electric motor
Power, hp 234–260 234 250 (combined with electric motor)
Torque, Nm 328–336 366 330 (excluding electric motor)
Fuel consumption (combined), l/100 km 10.5–12.5 9.5–11 8.0–8.5
Resource, thousand km 300–400 200–250 150–200 (without battery replacement)
Maintenance cost Average High (turbine, cooling) Very high (battery, inverter)

From the table it is clear that VQ35DE wins in terms of service life and reliability, while the hybrid version is the most economical, but also the most expensive to maintain. VQ25DD occupies an intermediate position, but requires special attention to the turbine and cooling system.

5. Which engine should I choose? Recommendations by generation

Choosing a motor for Nissan Murano largely depends on the generation of the crossover and your priorities. Let's consider the best options for each of them:

For Murano Z50 (2002–2007):

  • 🔹 The only available motor is VQ35DE 3.5 l (234 hp)
  • 🔹 Reliable, but on runs over 200,000 km it requires investment in repairs
  • 🔹 It is better to choose copies with a confirmed service history

For Murano Z51 (2007–2014):

  • 🔹 VQ35DE (260 hp) - the best choice for those who value reliability
  • 🔹 VQ25DD (234 hp) - suitable for a quiet ride, but with the risk of problems with the turbine
  • 🔹 The hybrid version appeared only in 2015, so for Z51 not relevant

For Murano Z52 (2014–2021):

  • 🔹 VQ35DE (260 hp) - still the most balanced option
  • 🔹 VQ25DD (234 hp) - only for those who are ready to take risks with a turbine
  • 🔹 Hybrid (250 hp) - suitable for city use, but not for long trips

Mileage and service history (especially oil changes)

Timing chain condition (for VQ35DE)

Turbine operation (for VQ25DD)

Battery status (for hybrid)

Oil level and presence of leaks -->

6. Typical engine problems and how to avoid them

Each motor Nissan Murano has its own "diseases". Knowing these problems will help you avoid expensive repairs or at least prepare for them in advance.

For VQ35DE 3.5 l:

  • 🛢️ Oil consumption: after 150,000 km it can reach 1 liter per 1000 km. The solution is to replace the oil seals or piston rings.
  • 🔗 Timing chain: stretches to 200,000 km, requires replacement along with phase regulators.
  • 🔥 Overheat: A common problem is due to a clogged radiator or faulty thermostat.

For VQ25DD 2.5 l:

  • 🌀 Turbine: wear after 100,000 km, signs - black smoke from the exhaust pipe, loss of power.
  • 🌡️ Cooling system: antifreeze leaks, problems with the pump.
  • 🔥 Detonation: when refueling with low-octane gasoline.

For the hybrid version:

  • 🔋 Battery: degradation after 100,000–120,000 km, replacement cost - from 150,000 rubles.
  • ⚡ Inverter: overheating and failure when operating in hot weather.
  • 🔌 Electrical wiring: oxidation of contacts, especially in places where high-voltage cables are connected.
⚠️ Attention: If you buy Murano with a mileage of more than 150,000 km, be sure to check the compression in the cylinders and the condition of the turbine (for VQ25DD). For the hybrid version, it is critical to check the service history of the battery - without this, the purchase may result in costly repairs.

7. How to extend the life of the engine? Maintenance Tips

Engine life Nissan Murano directly depends on the quality and regularity of service. Here are key recommendations to help avoid serious damage:

For all engines:

  • 🛢️ Oil change: every 7,000–10,000 km (use synthetics 5W-30 or 5W-40).
  • ⛽ Fuel: only AI-95 or AI-98 (for VQ25DD necessarily AI-98).
  • 🔧 Diagnostics: check for errors every 20,000 km OBD-II.

For VQ35DE 3.5 l:

  • 🔗 Timing chain: check tension every 100,000 km.
  • 🛠️ Phase regulators: Replace along with the chain if knocking noises are heard on a cold engine.

For VQ25DD 2.5 l:

  • 🌀 Turbine: check for play once every 50,000 km.
  • 🌡️ Cooling: Monitor the antifreeze level and the condition of the radiator.

For the hybrid version:

  • 🔋 Battery: Once every 30,000 km, check the voltage and balance of the cells.
  • 💧 Cooling: Clean the air conditioner radiator and battery cooling fan.
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Regular oil changes and the use of high-quality fuel are the key to the long life of any Nissan Murano engine. For turbocharged and hybrid versions, it is also critical to monitor the cooling system.

8. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Which Nissan Murano engine is the most reliable?

VQ35DE 3.5 l considered the most reliable and durable. With proper maintenance, it easily covers 300,000–400,000 km. Turbocharged VQ25DD and the hybrid version are inferior to it in terms of service life and require large investments in repairs.

How much oil does VQ35DE consume per 1000 km?

Up to 150,000 km, oil consumption is usually minimal (up to 100–200 ml per 1000 km). After 150,000 km it can increase to 300–500 ml, and on runs over 250,000 km - up to 1 liter per 1000 km. If the flow rate exceeds 1 liter, repairs are required (replacement of valve stem seals or rings).

Is it possible to drive on 92 gasoline with a VQ25DD?

No, VQ25DD designed for AI-98. Usage AI-92 will lead to detonation, reduced power and accelerated wear of the turbine. As a last resort, you can refuel AI-95, but it is better to avoid low octane fuel.

How much does it cost to replace the battery in a Murano Hybrid?

Cost of a new battery for a hybrid Murano ranges from 150,000 to 200,000 rubles (depending on the supplier and region). An alternative is to restore the old battery (about 50,000–80,000 rubles), but this is a temporary solution.

Which engine is better for off-road?

For light off-road conditions (dirt roads, snow, mud) it is better suited VQ35DE 3.5 l thanks to high torque at low speeds. Turbocharged VQ25DD less adaptable due to the risk of overheating, and the hybrid version is not designed for harsh conditions.