Introduction: Why Murano remains a relevant crossover

Crossover Nissan Murano - one of those cars that managed to survive several generations without losing popularity. Having debuted in 2002 as the brand's first full-size crossover, the model cemented its reputation as a reliable, comfortable and stylish vehicle. Today, when the market is crowded with competitors, technical specifications Murano continue to amaze with their balance between dynamics, efficiency and practicality.

Latest version (third generation, Z52) has been produced since 2014, but thanks to regular updates it remains in demand. In this article we will look at TTX Nissan Murano in detail: from dimensions and engines to transmission and suspension features. We will pay special attention to the differences between modifications for different markets (USA, Europe, Russia) and the nuances of operation, which are rarely discussed in showrooms.

Dimensions and weight: comparison with competitors

Nissan Murano belongs to the class of mid-size crossovers, but is closer in size to full-size models. Third generation body length (Z52) is 4898 mm, which is 100–150 mm more than Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V. The width (1938 mm) and height (1715 mm) provide a spacious interior without the car looking bulky.

Key parameters of dimensions and weight:

  • 📏 Wheelbase: 2825 mm (stability on the highway, but difficulties with parking in tight yards)
  • 🚗 Clearance: 180 mm (enough for urban conditions, but not for serious off-road use)
  • ⚖️ Curb weight: from 1750 kg (depending on configuration and engine)
  • 🔄 Turning radius: 11.8 m (average for the class, but worse than compact crossovers)

For comparison: Ford Edge has a similar length (4918 mm), but weighs 100–150 kg more, which affects the dynamics. A Hyundai Santa Fe shorter by 100 mm, but offers higher ground clearance (195 mm). The choice between them often comes down to priority: comfort (Murano) or patency (Santa Fe).

📊 Which parameter is more important for you when choosing a crossover?
  • Dimensions and space of the cabin
  • Dynamics and power
  • Fuel consumption
  • Patency and ground clearance

Engines: from aspirated to hybrids

Engine range Murano varies depending on the market. Most common in Russia and Europe gasoline VQ35DE volume 3.5 l - naturally aspirated V6 with an aluminum block, developing 249 hp (in some modifications up to 260 hp). This engine is known for its reliability, but it also has weaknesses: high fuel consumption and sensitivity to oil quality.

A hybrid version with a system was also offered in the USA Nissan Hybrid System, combining a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (QR25DER) and an electric motor. The total power of such an installation is 250 hp, and fuel consumption in the combined cycle does not exceed 8.1 l/100 km (versus 10.5–12 liters for V6). However, the hybrid version was not officially supplied to Russia.

Engine Volume, l Power, hp Torque, Nm Consumption (mixed), l/100 km
VQ35DE (V6) 3.5 249–260 336 10.5–12.0
QR25DER (hybrid) 2.5 250 (system) 330 7.8–8.1
VQ25DE (V6, for Japan) 2.5 234 270 9.5–10.0

Important: engine VQ35DE requires an oil change every 7–8 thousand km (despite the official 15 thousand km), otherwise the risk of carbon deposits on the valves increases 3 times. The owners also note that after 150 thousand km, the phase regulators may need to be replaced - this is the weak point of the engine.

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Murano With mileage, be sure to check the oil change history. If the intervals exceeded 10 thousand km, be prepared for expensive engine repairs after 200–250 thousand km.

Transmission and drive: CVT vs classic automatic

All modifications Nissan Murano third generation are equipped CVT Xtronic - continuously variable transmission, which has become the hallmark of the brand. The CVT paired with the V6 provides smooth acceleration, but has limitations:

  • ⚡ Maximum torque - 336 Nm (if exceeded, overheating is possible)
  • 🛠️ Variator belt resource - 120–150 thousand km (replacement costs 80–120 thousand rubles)
  • 🔥 Requires special oil NS-3 (regular ATF is not suitable!)

Unlike competitors (for example, Toyota Highlander with 8-speed automatic), CVT Murano provides faster acceleration to 100 km/h - 7.5 seconds versus 8.1 Highlander. However, when towing a trailer weighing more than 900 kg or aggressive driving, the variator begins to “slip”, which reduces its life.

All-wheel drive system Intelligent AWD connects automatically when slipping, but cannot be activated manually. This differentiates Murano from Subaru Outback, where the drive can be locked in 50/50 mode. For city use there is no difference, but on snow or mud Outback behaves more confidently.

Have you changed the oil in the variator (interval - 60 thousand km)|

Slipping at start (a sign of belt wear)|

Noises when switching “virtual” gears|

Condition of the variator cooling radiator (often clogged with dirt) -->

Suspension and handling: comfort vs sportiness

Nissan Murano built on a platform Nissan D, which is also shared Altima And Maxima. Front suspension - MacPherson type, behind - multi-link. This scheme provides good handling, but the stiffness of the shock absorbers depends on the configuration:

  • 🚙 Comfort versions (For example, SL) have soft settings, but roll in corners is noticeable already at speeds of 80+ km/h.
  • 🏁 Sports versions (Platinum) are equipped with adaptive shock absorbers that adapt to the driving style.

Weak points of the suspension:

  • 🔧 Wheel bearings — fail at 100–120 thousand km (symptom: hum at speeds of 60+ km/h).
  • 🛞 Stabilizer bushings - require replacement every 50 thousand km.
  • 🔨 Rear suspension arms — corrosion begins after 5–6 years of operation (especially in regions with salt on the roads).

For comparison: Mazda CX-9 has a similar multi-link suspension, but with stiffer settings, which improves handling but reduces comfort. Murano remains the “golden mean” - not as sporty as CX-9, but not as rolly as Ford Explorer.

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When buying used Murano Be sure to check the condition of the CV joint boots. Their rupture leads to dirt getting into the hinges and failure after 10–15 thousand km.

Fuel consumption: real numbers vs official data

Official fuel consumption for Nissan Murano with engine VQ35DE and the variator is:

  • 🏙️ City: 13.5 l/100 km
  • 🛣️ Route: 7.8 l/100 km
  • 🔄 Mixed cycle: 9.8 l/100 km

However, real reviews from owners show different numbers:

  • 🚗 In the city (Moscow, traffic jams): 15–17 l/100 km (in winter up to 18 l).
  • 🌳 On the highway (90–110 km/h): 8.5–9.5 l/100 km.
  • 🏔️ Mountain roads: up to 20 l/100 km (the variator constantly operates at high speeds).

To reduce consumption it is recommended:

  1. Use fuel no less than AI-95 (at 92, power drops and consumption increases).
  2. Monitor tire pressure (optimally 2.3 bar front and 2.1 bar rear).
  3. Disable all-wheel drive in the city (if there is such an option in your configuration).
⚠️ Attention: If fuel consumption exceeds 20 l/100 km in the city, this may indicate a malfunction of the lambda probes or air leaks in the intake manifold. Diagnostics will cost 3–5 thousand rubles, but will save on fuel.

Security and electronics: what has changed over the years

Nissan Murano third generation received maximum 5 stars in crash tests NHTSA (USA) and IIHS, but in Euro NCAP it hasn't been tested. Key security systems:

  • 🛡️ 6 airbags (including knee for the driver).
  • 🚨 Collision avoidance system (Forward Collision Warning).
  • 👁️ Blind Spot Monitoring (Blind Spot Warning).
  • 🅿️ Surround camera (360°) in top trim levels.

However, there are also disadvantages:

  • 🔋 Battery often discharges when left idle for a long time (especially in cold weather).
  • 📡 Electronics may “glitch” after 100 thousand km (for example, spontaneous turning on of headlights).
  • 🔑 Immobilizer sometimes it blocks the engine from starting for no apparent reason (this can be solved by reflashing the key).

Unique Feature Murano: system Predictive Forward Collision Warning uses radar to predict the braking of the car in front 2 cars ahead of you. This is a rare option even in premium crossovers.

How to reset ESP error on Murano

1. Turn off the engine and turn on the ignition (without starting the engine).

2. Press and hold the button ESP OFF within 10 seconds.

3. Start the car - the error should disappear. If not, diagnostics are required.

Comparison with competitors: who is better?

Main competitors Nissan Murano on the market:

Parameter Nissan Murano Toyota Highlander Hyundai Santa Fe Mazda CX-9
Engine (base) V6 3.5 l, 249 hp V6 3.5 l, 295 hp 2.5T 4-cyl, 277 hp 2.5T 4-cyl, 228 hp
Flow (mixed) 10.5 l/100 km 11.2 l/100 km 9.8 l/100 km 10.0 l/100 km
Price (used, 2018) 2.5–3.2 million ₽ 3.0–3.8 million ₽ 2.2–2.9 million RUB 2.8–3.5 million ₽
Benefits Comfortable, reliable V6 Power, space Price, 5 year warranty Handling, design

Who is it suitable for? Murano?

  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families who need a spacious interior and a large trunk (560 l).
  • 🚗 For those who value a smooth ride and silence in the cabin (noise level - 62 dB at a speed of 100 km/h).
  • 💼 For entrepreneurs who often drive on the highway (low consumption at high speeds).

Who should choose another crossover?

  • 🏔️ For off-road lovers (180 mm ground clearance and lack of blocking make Murano impractical for offroad).
  • 💨 For those who want sporty dynamics (Mazda CX-9 or Ford Edge ST will fit better).
💡

Nissan Murano is an ideal choice for those who are looking for a balance between the comfort of a premium crossover and the reliability of a Japanese car. Main advantages: spacious interior, quiet V6 and high level of safety. Cons: high fuel consumption and expensive CVT maintenance.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about Nissan Murano

❓ Which engine is more reliable: V6 3.5 l or hybrid 2.5 l?

Engine VQ35DE (V6) is considered more reliable in the long term, but requires regular oil changes (every 7–8 thousand km). The hybrid version is more economical, but its battery loses capacity after 150–200 thousand km, and replacement costs 200–300 thousand rubles. If you plan to use the car for more than 5 years, it is better to choose a V6.

❓ Is it possible to tow a trailer on Murano?

Yes, the maximum towed trailer weight is 1500 kg (with brakes). However, when towing heavy loads, the CVT overheats, which reduces its service life. Recommended:

  • Use an additional variator cooling radiator.
  • Do not exceed the speed of 90 km/h.
  • Check the oil level in the variator after each trip with a trailer.
❓ What configurations Murano Were you officially in Russia?

The following configurations were officially sold in Russia:

  • SE — basic, with fabric trim and 18-inch wheels.
  • SV — adds leather interior, sunroof and system Bose.
  • SL — premium, with ventilated seats and adaptive cruise control.
  • Platinum - top-end, with 20-inch wheels and a panoramic roof.

It is considered the most balanced in terms of price and equipment SV.

❓ What is the real engine resource VQ35DE?

With proper maintenance (oil change every 7–8 thousand km, original filters), the engine VQ35DE passes easily 300–350 thousand km. However, after 200 thousand km you may need:

  • Replacement of phase regulators (30–50 thousand rubles).
  • Cleaning the throttle valve (5–10 thousand rubles).
  • Replacing the timing chain (100–150 thousand rubles, but rarely required - once every 200–250 thousand km).
❓ Why Murano so expensive to maintain?

Main expense items:

  • CVT: oil change - 10-15 thousand rubles, belt - 80-120 thousand rubles.
  • Suspension: original stands cost 20–30 thousand rubles per pair.
  • Electronics: sensors and cameras (for example, replacing a 360° camera - 40 thousand rubles).

You can save money by using non-original spare parts (for example, racks Kayaba or Monroe), but this may affect comfort.