Cruising in Comfort: An Exploration of the Nissan Murano
The Nissan Murano has carved a niche in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a blend of luxury, comfort, and capability for over two decades. With its latest iteration entering the 2024 model year, it's time to delve into the details of this popular vehicle and see if it lives up to its reputation.
A Stylish Evolution:
The Murano's design leans towards sophistication, boasting a sleek silhouette with sharp lines and a bold V-motion grille. Standard LED headlights and taillights add a touch of modernity, while available 20-inch wheels further enhance its presence on the road. The interior continues the theme with premium materials, comfortable leather seating, and a spacious cabin. The infotainment system features a user-friendly touchscreen interface and integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ for enhanced connectivity.
Performance and Capability:
Under the hood, the 2024 Murano comes equipped with a proven 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. While not the most potent option in its class, this setup prioritizes a smooth and comfortable driving experience. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it offers decent fuel economy, with an estimated 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
Available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) provides added confidence in inclement weather or light off-road situations. However, with a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs, the Murano leans more towards urban adventures than rugged expeditions.
Tech-Savvy Features:
Nissan equips the Murano with a suite of driver-assistance technologies, grouped under the banner of Nissan Intelligent Mobility. These features include Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, providing an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.
The available ProPILOT Assist technology takes things a step further by offering semi-autonomous driving capabilities. It combines Intelligent Cruise Control with Lane Keeping Assist, helping maintain distance and lane position on highways, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys.
Trims and Pricing:
The 2024 Murano is offered in four trim levels: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. The base S trim starts at $40,340 and includes features like heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a sunroof. Moving up the ladder unlocks additional amenities like a panoramic moonroof, leather-appointed seats, a Bose® premium audio system, and the ProPILOT Assist system. The top-of-the-line Platinum trim reaches a starting price of $47,440 and boasts all the bells and whistles, including a head-up display, heated and ventilated front seats, and a surround-view camera system.
Is the Murano Right for You?
If you prioritize a comfortable and stylish ride with a focus on technology and safety features, the Nissan Murano might be a compelling choice. It offers competitive fuel economy and decent cargo space for everyday errands or weekend getaways. However, if you seek a more powerful engine or robust off-road capabilities, other options in the segment might be a better fit. Ultimately, a test drive will help determine if the Murano aligns with your driving needs and preferences.
