Nissan Murano Review: Assessing Its Position in Today's Competitive SUV Market

The Evolving Mid-Size SUV Landscape

The mid-size SUV segment has become the automotive industry's most fiercely contested battleground, with nearly every manufacturer vying for consumer attention. Amid this crowded field, the Nissan Murano maintains a distinctive presence, though questions remain about its ability to compete with newer, more technologically advanced rivals.

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Performance Analysis: Power vs. Refinement

At the heart of the Murano lies its 3.5-liter V6 engine, a powertrain that distinguishes it in an era where turbocharged four-cylinder engines dominate. Producing 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, this engine delivers:

• Confident highway merging with ample passing power
• Smooth acceleration compared to turbocharged alternatives
• Reduced turbo lag that plagues many competitors

However, the driving experience is hampered by Nissan's continuously variable transmission (CVT), which prioritizes fuel efficiency over engagement. The lack of selectable drive modes further limits the Murano's dynamic potential, leaving drivers without options to tailor the vehicle's behavior to different conditions.

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Fuel Efficiency: A Surprising Strength

Despite its V6 configuration, the Murano achieves commendable fuel economy:

These figures place the Murano at the top of its class for V6-powered mid-size SUVs, though four-cylinder turbo competitors often achieve better numbers. The efficiency comes at the cost of performance excitement, with the CVT constantly seeking the most economical engine speed.

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Competitive Positioning: How the Murano Stacks Up

When compared to segment rivals, the Murano presents a mixed value proposition:

Against the Chevrolet Blazer

The Blazer offers more engaging handling and available V6 power with a conventional automatic transmission. However, the Murano counters with superior rear seat comfort and a more premium interior feel.

Versus the Honda CR-V

While the CR-V leads in fuel efficiency and cargo versatility, the Murano provides a quieter cabin and more powerful standard engine. The CR-V's turbocharged four-cylinder feels more modern but can suffer from turbo lag.

Compared to the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The Atlas Cross Sport offers more advanced tech and a roomier interior, but the Murano maintains an advantage in predicted reliability and ownership costs.

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Ownership Experience: Daily Driving Considerations

Beyond specifications, the Murano excels in several real-world usage scenarios:

• Commuting comfort: Excellent seat support and noise isolation make it ideal for daily drives
• Family-friendly features: Easy-to-clean surfaces and ample rear legroom
• Visibility: Large windows and thin pillars provide excellent outward sightlines
• Entry/exit: Well-positioned seating height simplifies access for all passengers

However, tech-savvy buyers might find the infotainment system dated compared to newer offerings from competitors. The lack of wireless smartphone integration and smaller touchscreen options disappoint in this connected age.

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Safety and Technology Assessment

Nissan's Safety Shield 360 comes standard on most Murano trims, including:

• Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• Lane departure warning
• High-beam assist

While these features were competitive when introduced, some rivals now offer more sophisticated systems with semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Murano's safety scores remain strong, with top marks in most crash tests, but lack the latest accident avoidance technologies.

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Pricing and Value Proposition

The Murano's pricing structure positions it as a premium offering within the mainstream segment:

• S: Entry-level with surprising feature content
• SV: Popular mid-range with added comfort features
• SL: Luxury-focused with premium materials
• Platinum: Top-tier with all available features

When similarly equipped to competitors, the Murano often comes at a slight price premium, justified by its standard V6 power and upscale interior touches. However, aggressive incentives and strong residual values help maintain its competitiveness.

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Who Should Consider the Nissan Murano?

The Murano makes the most sense for buyers who prioritize:

• Smooth, relaxed driving dynamics over sporty handling
• Proven V6 reliability versus newer turbocharged options
• Exceptional seat comfort for long-distance travel
• Distinctive styling that stands out from more conventional SUVs

It may disappoint those seeking the latest tech features, engaging driving dynamics, or maximum cargo versatility. The Murano remains a strong choice for traditional SUV buyers rather than tech-focused early adopters.

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The Verdict: A Comfortable If Conventional Choice

While no longer class-leading, the Nissan Murano retains several compelling advantages in the mid-size SUV segment. Its comfortable ride, distinctive styling, and smooth V6 power continue to attract buyers who prioritize these attributes over cutting-edge technology or sporty handling.

For shoppers considering alternatives, we recommend test driving the Murano back-to-back with its key competitors to properly evaluate its unique blend of attributes. The Murano's strengths become particularly apparent during extended drives, where its comfort-focused design philosophy shines.

Ultimately, the Murano represents a conservative but well-executed approach to the mid-size SUV formula—one that continues to find an appreciative audience despite intense segment competition.