Nissan Murano: trunk volume by generation, real tests and secrets of cargo placement

Crossover Nissan Murano It has long gained a reputation as a stylish and comfortable car for family trips and city use. But when it comes to practicality, the first question potential owners ask is: How many things will fit in the trunk? The official figures - from 381 to 890 liters - sound impressive, but how do they compare with real needs? In this article we will figure out what the dimensions of the luggage compartment are for each generation. Murano (Z50, Z51, Z52), how to load things correctly so as not to lose volume, and what can be transported without folding the rear seats.

You will be surprised, but even in the basic configuration Nissan Murano is able to compete with larger SUVs in terms of loading capacity - thanks to the well-thought-out body shape and adjustable trunk floor. And if you know a few tricks (for example, how to fold seats or use underground niches), the usable space will increase by 20-30%. We tested real scenarios - from transporting a baby stroller to traveling to the country with bicycles - and are ready to share our findings.

Nissan Murano trunk volume by generation: comparison table

Over 20 years of production Murano underwent three generational changes, and each of them had its own characteristics in the organization of luggage space. Below is a comparison table with exact numbers and key differences.

Generation	Years of manufacture	Trunk volume (l)	With the back row	With seats folded	Features
Z50 (1st)	2002–2007	381–1 840	381 l	1,840 l	High loading threshold, narrow body shape
Z51 (2nd)	2007–2014	453–1 874	453 l	1,874 l	Increased width, two-level floor
Z52 (3rd)	2014–present	395–890	395 l	890 l	Compact folding of seats, niche under the floor

Please note: Murano Z52 (current generation) volume with seats folded much lessthan their predecessors. This is due to a change in the design of the rear suspension and an increase in the wheelbase. However, in everyday use the difference is not so critical - thanks to the more ergonomic shape of the body and the ability to adjust the floor height.

⚠️ Attention: Some sources indicate trunk volume Murano Z52 as 1,089 liters with seats folded. This is a mistake! The actual figure is 890 l (according to the VDA standard). The difference arises from different measurement methods (with or without taking into account the space up to the ceiling).

If maximum load capacity is important to you, look at used ones. Z51 - they offer almost 2 times more space with the seats folded down. But keep in mind that fuel consumption in older generations is higher and comfort is lower.

Real tests: what fits in the trunk of a Murano?

Numbers in liters don't mean much unless you see how they translate into practical scenarios. We ran a series of tests with typical loads to show what it can do Nissan Murano in different configurations.

• 👶 Stroller + shopping bag: In the trunk Z52 (395 l) fits stroller type Cybex Priam folded + 2 large supermarket bags. This leaves room for small items (for example, a child car seat).
• 🚴 Bicycle: One adult bike (26-29 inches) fits only with the rear seat folded down. For two bikes you will have to remove the front wheel or use a roof rack.
• 🛒 Shopping for the family for the week: 4 large bags from Ashana or Ribbons fit into the trunk Z51 (453 l) without folding the seats, but you will have to carefully distribute the load by height.
• 🏕️ Camping equipment: A tent for 3-4 people, sleeping bags, a gas cylinder and a folding table will fit if you fold the back row. For Z50 this is critical - due to the high loading threshold, heavy things will have to be dragged in with force.

Interesting fact: in Murano Z52 Under the trunk floor there is a hidden niche ~15 cm deep, where you can hide small valuables (for example, a laptop or documents). This is not written in the instructions, but the owners actively use this space.

How to increase trunk volume: 5 working methods

Even if it seems to you that Murano There is not enough space, do not rush to change the car. Here are proven ways to optimize space:

1. Adjusting the trunk floor. B Z51 And Z52 the floor can be raised or lowered by 2 levels. In the upper position, a niche is formed for small items, in the lower position, the loading height increases.
2. Seats fold in a 60:40 ratio. It is not necessary to lower the entire rear row - just fold one section to transport long loads (for example, skis or surfboards).
3. Using a roof rack. For Murano roof rails fit Thule or Yakima with a load capacity of up to 75 kg. Ideal for bicycles or luggage on long trips.
4. Organizers and grids. Vertical mesh on the backs of the front seats (Nissan Original Accessories) allow you to place small items (bottles, umbrellas) without taking up space in the trunk.
5. Vacuum bags. For clothes or bedding - reduce cargo volume by 30-40%. Especially relevant for trips to the sea.

An important nuance: with the seats folded in Murano Z52 a step is formed between the trunk and the passenger compartment. To avoid cargo damage, use transition panels (sold from official dealers Nissan).

Make sure the trunk floor is in the down position (for maximum volume)|

Check cargo attachments (straps, nets)|

Place heavy items toward the back of the rear seat|

Secure fragile items with soft clamps|

Check tire pressure (overloading affects handling) -->

What won't fit in the trunk of a Murano: limitations and alternatives

Despite the impressive figures, there are cargoes with which Murano Can't do it without additional accessories. Here's what definitely won't fit:

• 🛏️ Double mattress. Even in Z51 with the seats folded, the maximum length of the cargo compartment is ~1.8 m (with a width of 1.1 m). Mattress 160×200 cm will have to be transported on the roof.
• 🏀 Large furniture. Wardrobes, tables or sofas will not fit in any generation. Alternative - rent Gazelle or freight transportation services.
• 🚣 Boat or kayak. Even an inflatable boat 3 m long will not fit inside. The solution is a trailer or roof rack with special fastenings.
• 📦 Construction materials in large quantities. For example, 10 50 kg bags of cement exceed the maximum load capacity (see section below).

Critical information: Maximum trunk load Nissan Murano Z52 — 200 kg (including passengers). Exceeding this limit leads to overload of the rear axle and the risk of damage to the shock absorbers. The instruction manual states that the maximum load weight should not exceed 50% of the permissible gross weight of the vehicle.

⚠️ Attention: When transporting heavy loads (such as sacks of potatoes or tool boxes), distribute the weight evenly throughout the trunk area. Concentrating the load at one point can deform the floor.

Comparison with competitors: who is more practical?

To objectively evaluate Murano, let's compare it with the main competitors in the mid-size crossover class. To be fair, let’s take models of similar size and price:

Model	Trunk volume (l)	With the back row	With seats folded	Loading threshold (cm)
Nissan Murano Z52	395–890	395	890	78
Toyota Highlander	509–1 909	509	1 909	75
Hyundai Santa Fe	571–1 615	571	1 615	72
Ford Edge	602–1 780	602	1 780	80

As can be seen from the table, Murano loses to competitors in volume, but wins in other aspects:

• 🚗 Design and premium. Salon Murano made in style Nissan "Zero Gravity" - more comfortable for long trips.
• 💺 Rear passenger comfort. U Hyundai Santa Fe And Ford Edge Less legroom in the second row.
• 🔧 Reliability. According to J.D. Power, Murano Leads in reliability in its class among cars older than 3 years.

If your priority is - maximum trunk volume, pay attention to Toyota Highlander or Kia Sorento. But if the combination of style, comfort and sufficient practicality is more important, Murano remains one of the best choices.

Practical tips: how to load the trunk correctly

Improper stowage of cargo can not only reduce the useful volume, but also create a danger on the road. Follow these rules:

1. Heavy things - down and closer to the back of the seat. This lowers the center of gravity and improves handling. For example, tool boxes or water bottles should be placed near the rear seats.
2. Fragile items are in the center. This way they are less susceptible to vibration. Use soft dividers or blankets for cushioning.
3. Long loads - diagonally. Skis, boards or fishing rods can be placed at an angle from one rear corner of the rack to the opposite front corner.
4. Load securing. Always use belts or nets to prevent movement when braking. B Murano There are 4 fastenings at the corners of the trunk.

For owners Murano Z52 useful to know what's included SL And Platinum there is a function Easy Fill Tire Alert, which reminds you to check your tire pressure when overloaded. This helps avoid premature tire wear.

What to do if the cargo does not fit?

If you need to transport a large item (such as a refrigerator), but it won't fit even with the seats folded, try the following options:

1. Trailer rental. For Murano Suitable for trailers with a towbar (load capacity up to 1,500 kg).

2. Removable luggage racks. For example, Thule Motion XT on the roof (volume up to 600 l).

3. Freight transportation services. Services like Truck or Delimobil Cargo offer rental Gazelle hourly.

Frequently asked questions about the trunk of the Nissan Murano

Is it possible to transport a dog in the trunk? Murano?

Yes, but taking into account several nuances:

• Suitable for dogs weighing up to 20 kg transport box (For example, PetEgo Jet Set), which will fit in the trunk Z52 (395 l).
• Large dogs (Labrador, Shepherd) are best transported in the back seat with protective cover or in the trunk with one seat folded down (60:40 ratio).
• Be sure to use dividing mesh (For example, Nissan Pet Barrier) to prevent the dog from jumping into the cabin while driving.

Don't forget about ventilation - in hot weather the temperature in the trunk can rise to +50°C in 30 minutes!

What is the maximum weight that can be carried in the trunk?

It depends on the configuration and generation:

• Murano Z50/Z51: to 250 kg (including passengers).
• Murano Z52: to 200 kg. Exceeding this leads to overload of the rear axle and the risk of spring breakage.

To find out the exact permissible weight for your model, check the sticker on the driver's door pillar (section GVWR — Gross Vehicle Weight Rating).

Is it true that in Murano Can you sleep with the seats folded down?

Theoretically yes, but in practice it is inconvenient:

• The length of the berth with the seats folded is ~1.8 m (in Z51) or ~1.7 m (in Z52). For a person taller than 170 cm, this will be cramped.
• Because of the step between the trunk and the passenger compartment, you will have to use extra mattress or blankets to level the surface.
• B Z50 sleeping is even less comfortable due to the narrow body.

For a good rest it is better to use car tent (For example, Napier Backroadz), which is attached to the trunk.

What trunk accessories does Nissan offer?

The official accessories catalog includes:

• Rubber mat (Nissan Part No. 999T3-VN000) - protects against dirt and moisture.
• Organizer (Nissan Part No. 999T3-4N000) - dividers for small items.
• luggage net (Nissan Part No. 999T3-3N000) - prevents the load from shifting.
• Trunk cover (Nissan Part No. 999T3-AN000) - hides the cargo from prying eyes.

The cost of accessories is from 3,000 to 15,000 rubles. It is better to buy them from official dealers to ensure compatibility with your generation Murano.

How does loading the trunk affect fuel consumption?

According to tests Car and Driver, each additional 50 kg of cargo increases fuel consumption by 0.2–0.3 l/100 km. For example:

• Fully loaded (200 kg) Murano 3.5 V6 will consume not 10.5 l/100 km (passport data), but ~11.5 l/100 km.
• For hybrid version Murano Hybrid (available in some markets) the impact is less - the increase will be ~0.1 l/100 km for every 50 kg.

To reduce consumption, distribute the load evenly and avoid overloading the roof (aerodynamic drag increases exponentially).