Overview & Reviews

The Nissan Murano was one of the first midsize crossovers introduced in the United States and quickly became a popular alternative to more traditional SUVs thanks to its taut, carlike driving character and avant-garde styling. Later Nissan Muranos are notable for their higher-quality interiors, updated technology features and higher fuel economy ratings.

New or used, the Murano is definitely worth a look if you're on the hunt for a midsize crossover with seating for five. In reviews, our editors have generally praised this Nissan's sophisticated appearance, stylish and comfortable interior and strong acceleration. Middling cargo capacity and poor rearward visibility are our main complaints about the Nissan Murano. You'll find competing models that are better on one or both of these counts, but most won't match the Murano's combination of performance and style.

User Reviews:

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  Mikes Murano - 2005 Nissan Murano
  By PTA Mike - November 4 - 5:43 pm

  Fashionistic! Great style and performance. Got stability control/traction control, adjustable pedals. Great Bose stereo, 6 air bags, 18" tires/wheels. Rides great, excellent handling/performance. Smooth CVT (transmission). High intensity headlights, leather/sunroof. A real joy to drive. Excellent visability - removed rear headrests. Intelligent key (no key to unlock or start engine! Easy to drop rear seats, from the rear. Can lock the car with a button on rear hatch. Great eye appeal, with the technology to match.

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  Great all around vehicle. - 2005 Nissan Murano
  By Frank - November 4 - 5:03 pm

  Purhcased this car for my wife in Nov 2005 after I wrecked her PT Cruiser. She wanted it because of the look and the adjustble pedals, (shes 5 feet tall and has always had to sit very close to the steering wheel to reach the pedals). She fits great, now a safe distance from the air bag, and absolutely loves the car. It handles like a car, not a truck, gas mileage averages around 23 and will run fine on regular even though Nissan recommends 91 octane. I drive a Jeep Grand Cherokee, and try to drive the Nissan as often as I can, much more fun to drive, and more comfortable.

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  2005 Nissan Murano SL - 2005 Nissan Murano
  By Lee Ballard - November 4 - 8:06 am

  This auto is the most comfortable that I have owned in the last 10 years. It is fun to drive and is well thought out, functionally. It handles beautifully in all weather conditions (compact snow & ice are a dream).

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  Still love this car... - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By arobsd - November 2 - 3:03 pm

  Im the original owner and mine has 109k mi on it. Im sure the performance has dropped since I bought it but I cant tell. Still pushes me back in my seat when I want it to. Still purrs like a kitten with no major problems. I definitely not a OCD owner went it comes to maintenance. Change oil every 5-10k mi. It does burn oil to the tune of 1 qt. every 1500 mi which is probably due to a clogged intake manifold. Ive always put in premium gas. Repairs incl. Alternator 95K, $700, Engine mount, 90k $400. Spark Plugs 100k $500, Repairs in the near future: Intake Manifold $900, Struts: $1000, Tie rods $400, Catalytic converter: $1000. Nothing pressing. Not bad for over 100k. Still looks cool too!

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  Rear Visibility would be nice - 2005 Nissan Murano
  By Greg - November 1 - 8:00 pm

  I received this vehicle as a rental. The design of the rear quarter windows creates one of the worst blind spots in any vehicle Ive driven. The layout of the controls are not very well organized. The mirror controls are way to far out of reach. Fuel mileage was very poor at 17 mpg. My 15 year old F-150 with a V-8 does better! I wish the rental company could have given me an American vehicle.

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  Great car. - 2005 Nissan Murano
  By Lee - October 31 - 11:46 pm

  Love the car. It has been all I expected it to be. I like sitting very high and having the feeling of being in a large vehicle and getting the mpg of a smaller one. Fyi a previous reviewer, the rear seats do recline if you know how to pull a strap on the set bottom and push the back of the seat.

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  Nissan Murano 2003 - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By Pat1729 - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Im enjoying this car more than the Mercedes, BMW, Cadillac and other more expensive cars Ive owned. Its a pleasure to drive. amy husband and I have had good luck with Nissans.

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  Awesome purchase - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By lenw247 - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Since assuming sole ownership of said vehicle, I am please to say it is a joy to drive. This is my first Nissan, whereas I was a FORD fan prior and am confident it was a sound decision. No buyers remorse whatsoever.

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  Best Urban SUV - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By Iowan - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Overall excellant rating. Features and benefits vs price are one of the best.

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  My Murano - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By feisty3 - October 30 - 3:10 pm

  If this suv were a man, Id leave my current husband and marry it! Only problem I have is that the drivers side mirror takes time to get use to. Even though the seats are adjustable, Il only 411 so the mirror poses an obstruction, trust me, a small price to pay for this GREAT suv. Not a day goes by where my Murano greats mouth opened wide eyed stares. I CONSTANTLY get questioned about it.