The new Nissan Murano has all the attributes that you expect from a top notch SUV. It has great load carrying capacity; a spacious cabin and that all round solid feel that makes you feel secure on the highway. But that’s not all the new 2006 Nissan Murano has to offer.
With a 3.5 liter, V6, double overhead camshaft engine producing 245 bhp it is certainly no slouch. This impressive SUV goes from 0-60 in just 7.5 seconds and tops out at around 124 mph, (not that you never would!). With no diesel option the fuel economy hovers around the 20-mpg level, about average for a car of this size and a light right foot, should see the responsive engine return some improved results.
Its also unexpectedly sleek and stylish for such a large car, with a smart criss cross grille, striking 18 inch chrome alloy wheels and slanted headlights. The sleek body styling has great lines and is guaranteed to get you a few admiring glances. The cabin holds up well too with nice round dials and good trim level, even on the basic models.
The noise levels are good and the handling is responsive and gives good feedback through the wheel, but without affecting the great comfort levels. Front, side and head curtain airbags are standard, as well as ABS and a clever sensor that sets off the head airbags if the car is about to turn over. There are also traction control, navigation and parking camera options available.
The Nissan Murano only has one transmission option, but it’s a good one. It uses the CVT continuously variable transmission that, in effect, gives you a limitless number of gears, although the SE also has a mock manual alternative, although still using the same gearbox. You also have the standard 2 or 4 wheel drive, depending on road conditions.
The load space is good with the rear seats folding flat with the head rests still in place to give a good sized flat area and also good storage capacity in the center console various other storage options and the ever-present cup holders.
The Nissan Murano is a great car with sleek, stylish looks and great performance, together with a great range of standard accessories and will probably be a favorite among many SUV drivers. The Nissan is also good value for what you get with the 3 trim levels starting at around $30,000 and with Nissans legendary reliability, this has got to be a serious challenger to many of the market leaders.