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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  Love that Murano - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By C. H. - June 8 - 10:00 am

  I purchased the sheer silver, with touring package (black leather) 3 weeks ago. I just turned over 1,200 miles and am really enjoying the Murano. It has averaged around 19 mpg so far and Im expecting that to continue to improve. It is built solidly, is roomy, and looks great !! It rides smoothly and Ive been very pleased with the CVT transmission. I got a great deal from a local dealer, who matched the Carmax price of $500 under invoice.

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  great ride in my murano - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By love my murano - June 8 - 10:00 am

  I love the car it handles like a more expensive car. looks great nothing like it. inside is comfortabe looks are great. my kids have more room in the back then in my mini van. 15000 miles and not one problem. what else can i say iam very happy.

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  Looked for years - 2007 Nissan Murano
  By kelly - June 3 - 7:46 pm

  Just bought one. Drove the 03 when they came out. Wife fell in love with them. Teased her awhile and finally surprised her. Sturdy, firm ride, great handling, very responsive and roomy. Back from roadtrip, 17 mpg towing trailer and motorcycle highway. Without towing averaged 22.7. Far better than my Suburban. First new vehicle in 23 years, what was I waiting for? Seats a little firm for long rides but worth the money. Warranty could be better.

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  Decent car with bad build quality - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By umichioe - June 3 - 4:24 am

  I owned this car from 2003 (new) to 2012 (traded) It is comfortable and have good performance. But build quality is bad!!!! 40K: CVT failed. Replace underwarranty. 80K: Power seat failure. Replaced under extended warranty 120K: Transfer case failed. $3200 145K: CVT failed: $4300 150K: Aircon failed. Didnt fix. 150K: Catalytic converter failed. Didnt fix. Traded at 150K

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  Stange problem.. - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By Mexican - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Since Im driving the Muran, I feel it similar to my 3 series BMW, millage is poor about 16mpg. A few days ago the top of the rear door got lose, and none at the dealer has an answer why, they took pictures and sent them to the HQ, to see if it is covered by warranty. In this short period lots of noise is going on inside, which I never expected for such a nice design.

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  Simply amazing! - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By Jackie Siebel - June 2 - 10:00 am

  words really cannot describe this vehicle. Its handling and style are wonderful and the cvt transmission makes it a seemless drive- feels like you are always in 1st gear. I would definately recommend this vehicle. I also live in rochester NY and its winters are very harsh. Finally Im looking forward to a winter with no car problems! great car!

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  Good Stuff - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By Lazza17 - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Although I expected better gas mileage the car itself is just great. Upgrade to the BOSE - Its nice... Back seat legroom is unsurpassed.

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  My disappointments - 2009 Nissan Murano
  By oldmrt - May 31 - 8:01 pm

  Problems with leaking head gaskets, leaking transfer case (twice repaired), defective engine mounts and seat positioning number setting that never holds seem to be common with Murano 2009 owners and we are no exception. At 70,000 miles the car is showing all the signs of a Lemon. Up until now we were strong supporters of the Nissan line, but when the manufacturer does not stand behind a chronic problem I think its time to look at other manufacturers for better warranties and better quality

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  Best in Class - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By Ken Morris - May 31 - 11:33 am

  I test drove the Honda Pilot, Saturn Vue, Chrysler Pacifica, Suburu Outback, Audi Quattro, and Infiniti (and had been driving a passat wagon). This is the best value in its class for both price and handling when looking for a wagon/smaller SUV. It is almost the same as the Infiniti in design and handling, but about $10,000 less. I like the lower to the ground SUV. It is not boxy like some of the others and dosnt get pushed around in the wind. It handles great and has many nice interior features. Thus far, I have no significant issues with the car and my wife loves driving it.

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  CVT Issues - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By lemonornot? - May 30 - 3:50 pm

  We bought our Murano less than a year ago at 58k miles. Was looking forward to owning a Murano since they came out in 2003 and prices finally came down to where we could afford one. Well much to our surprise at 65k miles the engine starts to run at 4000 rpm going down the highway one long trip and we literally feel the vehicle losing power and jumping forward. We end up turning around on the highway in the median then cant move at all. COMPLETELY LOST POWER WITH THE GAS PEDAL TO THE FLOOR!!! Thought we were going to be stranded on the highway! Turn engine off/on and it goes by golly. Took it back to dealer and found the transmission had to be replaced, metal in pan. CVT has issues.