Nissan Murano is one of the most recognizable crossovers in the Japanese brand’s lineup, combining stylish design, a spacious interior and proven technical solutions. Since its debut in 2002, the model has gone through several generations, but has always remained in the shadow of more popular ones. Qashqai And X-Trail. However, Murano has its audience thanks to its unique combination of comfort, power and premium options.

In this review we will look at everything advantages and disadvantages of Nissan Murano, relevant for the current (fourth) generation, as well as previous versions. We will pay special attention to reliability, fuel consumption, handling and cost of ownership - key factors that concern potential buyers. If you choose between Murano and competitors like Hyundai Santa Fe or Kia Sorento, this article will help you make an informed choice.

1. Design and exterior: style vs. practicality

From the very first generation Nissan Murano stood out among crossovers with its extraordinary design. The modern version (since 2015) retains its signature features: an aggressive radiator grille V-Motion, curved headlights with LED backlighting and dynamic body lines. The model looks more expensive than many of its classmates, especially in top trim levels with chrome elements and 20-inch wheels.

However, style comes at the cost of practicality:

  • 🔹 Plus: A recognizable design that does not lose relevance even after 5–7 years of operation.
  • 🔹 Plus: High quality body assembly - no backlash or squeaks, even over 100 thousand km.
  • 🔸 Minus: Low ground clearance (180 mm) compared to X-Trail (210 mm) limits off-road capability.
  • 🔸 Minus: Large wheel arches collect dirt, and the complex shape of the bumper makes cleaning difficult.

The version that stands out in particular is Murano Hybrid (select markets) with blue accents and unique wheels. However, the hybrid modification is not officially supplied to Russia, which narrows the choice for local buyers.

📊 Which Nissan Murano design do you like best?
  • Classic (dorestyle 2018)
  • Updated (restyle 2021)
  • Hybrid version with blue accents
  • I don't like it

2. Interior and ergonomics: comfort or crampedness?

Salon Murano - one of the main advantages of the model. Soft plastics, leather trim (in top versions) and high-quality sound insulation were used here. The asymmetrical design of the front fascia with its 8-inch touchscreen looks modern, although some controls (such as the climate control) could be more intuitive.

The interior dimensions are impressive:

  • 🔹 Plus: Spacious front seats with good lateral support and many adjustments (including lumbar support).
  • 🔹 Plus: The rear row offers 980 mm of legroom - more than Toyota Highlander (940 mm).
  • 🔸 Minus: The low seating position of the rear passengers due to the panoramic roof (optional) can create discomfort for tall people.
  • 🔸 Minus: The trunk volume of 450 liters is inferior to competitors (Kia Sorento - 605 l).
Parameter Nissan Murano Hyundai Santa Fe Kia Sorento
Trunk volume (l) 450 571 605
Rear legroom (mm) 980 960 950
Ceiling height (mm) 990 1010 1000
Sound insulation (subjective assessment) 9/10 8/10 8/10

Important for family buyers: The Murano's rear row of seats does not fold flat (due to the high center tunnel), making it difficult to transport long cargo.

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If you often transport large items, pay attention to the options with an electric tailgate - it opens to a greater height, making loading easier.

3. Specifications: power vs. efficiency

Under the hood Nissan Murano a single engine is installed - 3.5 liter V6 power 249 hp (paired with CVT Xtronic). This motor is known for its reliability, but has a number of features:

  • 🔹 Plus: Excellent acceleration dynamics (0–100 km/h in 7.5 seconds) - faster than many competitors with turbo engines.
  • 🔹 Plus: The variator smoothly changes gears, simulating 7 steps, which appeals to fans of classic automatic transmissions.
  • 🔸 Minus: Fuel consumption in the city reaches 12–14 l/100 km (according to owner reviews).
  • 🔸 Minus: Engine Requires 95 gasoline (not lower), which increases the cost of operation.

For comparison: Hyundai Santa Fe with a 2.5-liter turbo engine (281 hp) it accelerates in 7.2 seconds, but consumes 11–13 l/100 km. Thus, Murano loses in efficiency, but wins in reliability (V6 service life before capital is 300+ thousand km).

⚠️ Attention: CVT Xtronic sensitive to overheating. When towing a trailer weighing more than 900 kg (the maximum permissible for the Murano), it is recommended to install an additional transmission cooler.

4. Handling and behavior on the road

Nissan Murano is positioned as a “premium urban crossover”, and its driving performance confirms this. The model is equipped with:

  • 🔹 Pendant Multi-Link at the back, providing good energy capacity.
  • 🔹 By the system Active Ride Control, which automatically brakes the wheels on uneven surfaces.
  • 🔹 All-wheel drive Intelligent AWD (optional), which distributes torque between the axles in a ratio of 100:0 to 50:50.

On the track Murano behaves predictably: the steering wheel is informative, but not too sharp, and the body dampens roll well when cornering. However, there are nuances:

  • 🔸 Large turning radius (11.8 m) complicates maneuvering in tight yards.
  • 🔸 The soft suspension “sags” on sharp bumps, which can cause discomfort at speeds above 120 km/h.

For comparison: Mazda CX-9 with the system G-Vectoring Control behaves much sportier, but also costs more. If the priority is comfort rather than drive, then Murano will be the best choice.

Smooth operation of the variator at low speeds|

All-wheel drive responsiveness on slippery roads|

Noise level in the cabin at 100+ km/h |

Operation of the parking assistance system (if equipped) -->

5. Reliability and typical problems

Nissan Murano It is considered one of the most reliable models in its class, but it also has weak points. According to services and owner reviews, the most common problems are:

Knot Typical fault Manifestation period Repair cost (approx.)
CVT Xtronic Belt wear, oil leak 150–200 thousand km 80–150 thousand rubles.
Fuel injectors Clogged, uneven operation 100–120 thousand km 30–50 thousand rubles. (per set)
Suspension Wear of stabilizer bushings, shock absorber struts 80–100 thousand km 20–40 thousand rubles.
Electronics Malfunctions of the 360° camera and parking sensors 50–80 thousand km 10–30 thousand rubles.

How to extend the life of a variator?:

  1. Change oil every 60 thousand km (despite the stated 100 thousand km from the manufacturer).
  2. Avoid prolonged slipping (for example, in snow).
  3. Use only original fluid NS-3.
⚠️ Attention: If you hear jerking or vibration when accelerating, this may be the first sign of wear on the CVT belt. Ignoring the problem will lead to expensive repairs (up to 200 thousand rubles).
What parts are best to buy for Murano?

Original parts (for example, NS-3 oil or Nissan filters) guarantee long-term operation of the units, but are expensive. An alternative is high-quality analogues:

- CVT: Idemitsu CVTF or Ravenol CVT fluid.

- Brake pads: Akebono or Brembo (original - Nissan D1060-JD00A).

- Spark plugs: NGK IFR6T11 (original - Nissan 22401-CK81B).

Avoid cheap Chinese analogues - they reduce the life of the engine and transmission.

6. Cost of ownership: what is the most expensive?

Purchase Nissan Murano — these are not only initial costs (from 3.5 million rubles for a new model), but also regular maintenance costs. Let's look at the main articles:

  • 💰 Fuel: With an average consumption of 11 l/100 km and a mileage of 20 thousand km per year - ~120 thousand rubles/year (for 95 gasoline).
  • 💰 Insurance: Casco will cost 80–150 thousand rubles/year (depending on the region and the age of the driver).
  • 💰 TO: Official service at the dealer - 25–40 thousand rubles. per visit (every 15 thousand km).
  • 💰 Tires: A set of winter/summer tires for 20-inch wheels - 60-100 thousand rubles.

For comparison: Toyota Highlander costs less to maintain (by 15–20%), but loses in dynamics. Murano It’s more profitable to buy on the secondary market (2-3 years of operation), where prices start from 2.2 million rubles.

Where to save?:

  • Buy consumables from trusted suppliers (for example, EXIST.RU or Autodoc).
  • Maintenance can be done at “unofficial” services with original spare parts (saving up to 30%).
  • Use gas equipment (if the engine allows) - it pays off in 1.5–2 years.
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The most expensive part of owning a Murano is the CVT. Its repair or replacement will cost 150–250 thousand rubles, so regular maintenance is critical.

7. Alternatives: who should Murano compare to?

In the segment of large crossovers, Nissan Murano many competitors. Let's look at the main alternatives:

Model Benefits Disadvantages Price (new, rub.)
Hyundai Santa Fe More modern design, economical turbo engine Less rear space, less reliable CVT 3.2–4.0 million
Kia Sorento Large trunk, 7 seats (optional) Stiff suspension, poor sound insulation 3.0–4.2 million
Toyota Highlander Legendary reliability, hybrid version Boring design, weak dynamics 3.8–5.0 million
Mazda CX-9 Better handling, premium interior High price, low ground clearance 4.0–5.5 million

Who is the Murano suitable for?:

  • 👍 For those who appreciate comfort and a quiet interior.
  • 👍 For buyers who care stylish design and premium finishes.
  • 👍 Families needing a spacious back row.

Who is the better 看其他 model?:

  • 👎 For lovers off-road trips (better X-Trail or Outlander).
  • 👎 For those who are looking for economical crossover (hybrid) Highlander or RAV4).
  • 👎 Buyers with a limited budget (cheaper Kia Sorento or Hyundai Santa Fe).

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

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

Yes, but with restrictions. The maximum trailer weight without brakes is 750 kg, with brakes - 900 kg. Excess weight leads to overheating of the variator. For towing it is recommended:

  • Install an additional transmission cooling radiator.
  • Use mode Tow Mode (if included).
  • Monitor the temperature of the variator (if it overheats, the check engine).
❓ What is the resource of the 3.5 V6 engine?

With proper maintenance (regular oil changes, original filters), the engine runs easily 300–400 thousand km. Basic conditions for longevity:

  • Use oil 5W-30 or 5W-40 (For example, Nissan Strong Save X 5W-30).
  • Change spark plugs every 100 thousand km.
  • Avoid overheating (monitor the antifreeze level).

Weak point - phase regulators, which can start knocking after 150 thousand km (repairs will cost 20–30 thousand rubles).

❓ Which Murano equipment is the most profitable?

Optimal price/quality ratio - equipment SL. It includes:

  • Leather interior with heated and ventilated front seats.
  • system ProPILOT Assist (adaptive cruise control + lane keeping).
  • All-round camera and parking sensors.
  • 18" wheels (cheaper to maintain than 20" wheels).

Top version Platinum adds panoramic roof and premium audio system Bose, but its overpayment (~300 thousand rubles) is often not justified.

❓ Is it worth buying a used Murano?

Yes, but with caution. The best option is cars from 2018–2020 with a mileage of up to 80 thousand km. What to pay attention to:

  • Check service history (especially changing the oil in the variator).
  • Make sure there has been no accident (check body geometry).
  • Test electronics (cameras, sensors, multimedia).

Average price on the secondary market:

  • 2016–2017 — 1.8–2.2 million rubles.
  • 2018–2019 — 2.2–2.8 million rubles.
  • 2020–2021 — 2.8–3.5 million rubles.
❓ What is the real fuel consumption of Murano?

According to the passport, consumption is 9.5 l/100 km in the combined cycle, but according to reviews from owners, the real figures are higher:

  • City: 12–14 l/100 km (depending on traffic jams).
  • Route (90–110 km/h): 7.5–8.5 l/100 km.
  • Mixed cycle: 9.5–11 l/100 km.

To reduce consumption:

  • Use the mode Eco Mode.
  • Monitor your tire pressure (recommended 2.3–2.5 bar).
  • Avoid sudden acceleration (the variator does not like high loads).