Nissan Murano test drive: is this premium crossover worth buying?

Nissan Murano is one of the most stylish and comfortable crossovers in the Japanese brand’s line-up, which has remained popular for many years among car enthusiasts who value the combination of dynamics, spacious interior and premium finishes. But is this car as good in practice as they say it is? In our detailed test drive, we will look at all the key aspects: from handling and fuel consumption to ergonomics and reliability.

We tested Murano in urban conditions, on the highway and off-road (within its capabilities) in order to give an objective assessment. We paid special attention hybrid version, which was a response to the growing demand for fuel-efficient cars. We will also compare it with its main competitors - Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Santa Fe And Kia Sorentoto understand whether it is worth overpaying for Japanese quality.

Design and exterior: style or practicality?

The first thing that catches your eye when you see Nissan Murano, - him futuristic design with an aggressive front end, narrow headlights and smooth body lines. The car looks expensive and modern, but how does this combine with practicality?

The crossover body has aerodynamic drag coefficient 0.31, which is not bad for a car of this class. However, large wheel arches and low ground clearance (203 mm) suggest that Murano still more focused on asphalt than off-road. But large 20-inch wheels (in top trim levels) give the car a solid look.

• 🔹 Exterior advantages: bright design, premium optics with LED backlighting, a wide selection of body colors (including two-tone options).
• 🔸 Cons: Large dimensions make parking in the city difficult; plastic covers on the bumpers quickly get dirty.
• 🔥 Feature: The rear tailgate opens very high - this can be awkward in low garages.

⚠️ Attention: When choosing a body color, keep in mind that dark shades (for example, “Obsidian Black”) get very hot in the sun, while light shades (for example, “Pearl White”) require more frequent washing due to visible dirt.

Interior and ergonomics: high level comfort?

Salon Murano made in the best traditions of Japanese premium class: soft materials, high-quality assembly and thoughtful ergonomics. However, some decisions raise questions. For example, multimedia system with an 8-inch screen looks outdated compared to its competitors, which have been using 10-12-inch displays for a long time.

Power seats (on top trims) provide excellent support, but back row may feel cramped for tall passengers - legroom is limited due to the high floor tunnel. But the trunk volume 1100 l (with folded seats) pleases with practicality.

Characteristics	Nissan Murano	Toyota Highlander	Hyundai Santa Fe
Trunk volume (l)	393 / 1100	272 / 981	571 / 1610
Finishing materials	Leather + soft plastic	Leather + fabric	Leather + aluminum
Climate control	2-zone (optional 3-zone)	3-zone	2-zone
Multimedia	8" (NissanConnect)	12.3" (Toyota Safety Sense)	10.25" (Blue Link)

One of the main advantages of the salon is low noise level - even at high speeds Murano quiet, like in a business class sedan. However ventilation system Sometimes it is too loud at maximum speed.

Specifications and engines: what's under the hood?

Nissan Murano offered with two types of power units: classic gasoline V6 3.5 l (260 hp) and hybrid installation 2.5 l + electric motor (249 hp). The petrol version accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.5 s, and the hybrid - for 8.1 s, but at the same time more economical.

Both engines are paired with Xtronic CVT, which provides smooth acceleration, but sometimes “thinks” during sudden throttle changes. Four-wheel drive Intelligent AWD connects automatically when slipping, but it cannot be activated manually - this may disappoint off-road enthusiasts.

• ⚡ Advantages of a hybrid: fuel consumption in the city - approx. 7.5 l/100 km (against 11-12 l for the petrol version).
• ⛽ Disadvantages of the gasoline version: high consumption on the highway (9-10 l/100 km at a speed of 120+ km/h).
• 🔧 Feature: The hybrid version requires more frequent brake pad replacement due to regenerative braking.

⚠️ Attention: When operating the hybrid version in severe frost (-20°C) electric range is reduced by almost half, and fuel consumption can increase by up to 9-10 l/100 km.

How does Intelligent AWD work?

The system automatically distributes torque between the axles depending on road conditions. In normal mode, up to 100% of the power goes to the front axle, but when slipping the rear axle is connected. However, unlike competitors (for example, Subaru Outback), there is no differential lock, so on serious off-road Murano feels insecure.

Handling and behavior on the road: comfort vs dynamics

Nissan Murano It is positioned as a comfortable family crossover, and in this regard it lives up to expectations. The suspension is soft, smoothes out bumps well, but at high speeds it appears roll in corners — the car is clearly not for aggressive driving.

The steering is light and informative, but too “empty” in the zero zone - this may not appeal to fans of a sporty driving style. But stabilization system It works efficiently, preventing the car from skidding even on a wet road.

On the highway, the crossover holds its course confidently, but when overtaking you have to take into account slight variator delay. In the city Murano shows its best side: maneuverable, with good visibility and a comfortable seating position.

Safety and Electronics: How Reliable is the Murano?

In terms of security Nissan Murano meets modern standards. The car is equipped with a system Nissan Safety Shield 360which includes:

• 🚗 Automatic emergency braking (recognizes pedestrians and cyclists).
• 🔄 Adaptive cruise control with lane keeping function.
• 👁️ Blind Spot Monitoring and a warning about crossing the markings.
• 🅿️ Parking assistance system (360° camera and sensors).

However, in tests IIHS And Euro NCAP Murano did not receive the highest marks for occupant protection in a side impact. It is also worth noting that collision warning system Sometimes it fires falsely in traffic jams, which can be annoying.

⚠️ Attention: When the mode is activated ProPILOT Assist (semi-autonomous driving) the system may not correctly recognize markings on worn asphalt - constant driver monitoring is required.

Price and options: is it worth overpaying?

Cost Nissan Murano in Russia starts from 4.2 million rubles. for the basic version with a petrol engine and ends RUB 5.8 million for the top-end hybrid package. For comparison, Toyota Highlander Hybrid will cost 5.5-6.3 million rubles, and Hyundai Santa Fe - in 3.8-5.2 million rubles..

Standard none leather trim, sunroof, heated steering wheel and rear seats, which makes it less attractive. The best option is the middle package SL, where there is already:

• ✅ Leather seats with memory.
• ✅ Keyless entry and engine start.
• ✅ All-round viewing system.
• ✅ Two-zone climate control.

The hybrid version is more expensive 500-700 thousand rubles., but pays off due to savings on fuel when driving from 20 thousand km/year.

💡

If you are choosing between a gasoline and a hybrid version, keep in mind that a hybrid is only more profitable for city use. On the highway the difference in consumption is minimal.

Owner reviews: real operating experience

According to portals Drive2 And Auto.ru, most owners Nissan Murano he is praised for:

• 👍 Comfortable suspension and a quiet interior.
• 👍 V6 engine reliability (with timely maintenance).
• 👍 Spacious trunk and comfortable chairs.

Among the disadvantages most often mentioned are:

• 👎 High fuel consumption in petrol version.
• 👎 Expensive service (especially the hybrid version).
• 👎 Weak multimedia compared to competitors.

Interestingly, many owners note problems with electronics after 3-4 years of operation: the parking sensors, rear view camera and climate control system begin to fail. There are also complaints about threshold corrosion when operating in regions with abundant use of reagents.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Murano

❓ Which engine is more reliable: gasoline V6 or hybrid?

Gasoline V6 3.5 l considered more reliable in the long term - with proper maintenance it can easily be repaired 300+ thousand km. The hybrid version requires more frequent attention to the battery and electric motor, but is also more economical. If you plan to drive for more than 5 years, it is better to choose the gasoline version.

❓ How much does Murano maintenance cost per year?

Average cost of maintenance (once per 15 thousand km) - about 25-35 thousand rubles. for petrol version and 35-45 thousand rubles. for a hybrid. Replacing brake pads will cost 15-20 thousand rubles., and comprehensive electronics diagnostics - up to 10 thousand rubles..

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

Yes, the maximum trailer weight is 900 kg (for petrol version) and 750 kg (for hybrid). However, when towing, fuel consumption increases by 20-30%, and the variator experiences increased loads. For regular towing it is better to consider Nissan Pathfinder.

❓ What are the most common breakdowns of Murano?

According to statistics from service centers, the most common breakdowns are:

1. Parking sensors and rear view camera (after 3-4 years).
2. Wheel bearings (on the run 80-100 thousand km).
3. Climate control electronics (especially in the hybrid version).
4. CVT (if aggressive driving may require an oil change already 60 thousand km).

❓ Is it worth buying a used Murano?

Buying used Murano may be profitable if the car:

• Has a full service history.
• Not used in taxis or car sharing.
• Passed inspection for hidden damage (especially after an accident).

Optimal age for purchase: 3-5 years, mileage to 80 thousand km. Older cars 7 years often require investment in suspension and electronics.