WASHINGTON — The crossover segment is white-hot lately, fueled by lower gas prices and the extra space it provides for families. But the crossover isn’t the most stylish mode of transportation — some even look like, dare I say, a minivan.
Nissan and a few other manufacturers have taken on the midsize crossover and changed the way you might think it should look.
The redesigned Murano SL has gone from an odd-looking crossover to a high-style machine on the outside, with interesting shapes and angles up front. The sides of the new Murano feature creases and bulges to keep your interest, and even the rear windows behind the rear doors look like they wrap around the vehicle. There are no straight lines on the vehicle, and I’m OK with that.
I really do like the look of this Murano. The overall styling is that of a more premium crossover that would cost much more than the $41,905 price tag on this mid-trim level model. There is also a higher trim level, but I think most people will find the SL trim level agreeable with stylish, 18-inch wheels that probably ride better than the 20-inch wheel on the next step up.
Nissan only offers the Murano as a five-seater. The interior is the nicest I can remember in a Nissan. The materials are an upgrade, with much better use of softer touch plastics, and the leather feels like it’s a better quality and looks nicer. Those power front seats are very comfortable, as they are NASA-inspired zero-gravity seats, which for me translated to no weird pinching or trying to find a comfortable position on longer drives.
My wife was impressed by the inside of this Murano and the large optional power panoramic roof. It’s part of the Technology package, which includes intelligent cruise control plus forward collision warning and emergency braking. It’s a $2,260 package, and it seems to be worth the money for the nice safety features it provides — and the big sunroof.
An 8-inch screen provides quality images with the NAV, and the around-view camera helps by looking all around the car when parking. It takes a few times to get used to seeing around the entire vehicle.
In this vehicle, it’s just the rear cargo space that might be a little smaller than some competitors, and it’s mostly because of the sloped rear roof area that makes up the stylish body.
The interior and exterior of the Murano has changed from the past, and so too has the ride. The new model has a more luxury feel and a bit of a softer ride. It feels like a more relaxed crossover over bumpy surfaces and it’s quieter. There isn’t much wind or road noise any longer.
There is only one engine offered in the Murano — a 3.5L V6, offering a decent amount of power to keep up with traffic. But when you push it, the engine sounds a little coarse, which seems to be a trait with this V6. I don’t usually dig the CVT transmission, but it works well in this Murano, with a minimal amount of droning and it acts like a normal automatic with fast shifts.
The fuel economy fell short of the sticker of 24 mpg of a mix of city and highway. I managed just 20 mpg in 455 miles of mixed driving, and you can use regular fuel.
The new Nissan Murano is a premium five-seat crossover with a price that seems like a good deal for what you get. With standout styling outside and a premium interior, if you’re looking for a more upscale crossover with some technology the Nissan Murano needs to be on your radar.
