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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  Great to Drive - 2005 Nissan Murano
  By Marianne - June 15 - 10:36 pm

  Great and fun to drive. Location of cup holders are my only complaint. Cup holders in front and rear are not within easy reach. Otherwise the SUV is perfect. Great handling. I feel safe in the vehicle. Would buy another. 19.5 is not bad gas mileage but would love a highbred with higher mileage if it performed as well.

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  Great car with comfort & style - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By Ray - June 5 - 11:20 pm

  This has been 1 of the best vehicles Ive owned over the past 20 yrs. Never had any major problems with it. Gas mileage is decent for the size (20 mpg) and I can fit 2 German Shepherds in the back without folding down the rear seats.

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  its the right suv for us - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By mlr - June 5 - 10:00 am

  comfortable urban suv with great interior room and excellent visability.teriffic sound system.smooth shifting and breaking.quiet with little or no road or wind noise.you dont see a lot of these so its stands out in a crowd.very pleased so far. Milage per gallon is at lower end of what the window sticker indicates but not bad for 245 hp.great styling

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  Undersung hero - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By MLBS - June 5 - 10:00 am

  The Murano is a unique vehicle for todays market and deserves the attention it is getting. The sproting "crossover" style is actually a new center to which all car manufacturers will find themselves moving (e.g. Volvos XC 90, Infinitis FX, Porsches Cayenne, Lexus RX330). Fully equipped, the Murano costs much less than any of these, and is more fun to drive, more comfortable to be in, as capable on bad roads and in bad weather, as fast, and good-looking as any of them. Bravo to Nissan for delivering a sport-SUV so bold in style and thought-out in function.

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  Impressions after 39 Mos - 2007 Nissan Murano
  By NiHao - June 4 - 11:10 pm

  I went with the Nissan Murano after much research because of the advertised MPG, Utility and Amenities. I have 45K miles on it now and have only had to do the scheduled maintenance. No issues, zip, none, 0 with this vehicle. The Goodyear tires are still the originals in fact and I have about 5K mi left on them. The AWD works well in the snow and on wet surfaces for all you weekend skiers out there. The seats on a long drive were quite comfortable as well. New the gas mileage was bad = 17 MPG. Now I get 21-22 regularly in mixed driving. It’s fairly quick too despite the fun zapping CVT transmission. This, besides the paint chipping a bit too much for my taste, is my biggest gripe.

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  My (Almost) Dream Car - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By Aqua423 - June 4 - 7:53 pm

  I had been dying to buy a new GMC Acadia but when I saw the Murano in the used lot with leather and in my price range I had to have it. I love how the engine picks up and goes, and how it can make sharp turns. Its small enough to park anywhere I want and I dont feel like Im driving a boat but its high enough for me to see out (since Im short). Its a good family vehicle and Im glad that I found it.

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  Dont believe the hype... - 2005 Nissan Murano
  By 0_tolerance - June 3 - 3:50 pm

  Overall, the Murano has its good qualities, but has MORE bad qualities. The CVT transmission, is a plus. I have the SL model so I have a few bells and whistles which work. The AC knobs are kind of funky for the SL line. Nissan should do something with that, if they are competing with the Lexus RX models (I get a lot of looks, because they think it is a lex). Had a few recalls AND a few problems with warranty items (engine/sensor light went off 5 five times AND a faulty fuel part inside tank). Service department finally diagnosed and fixed the problem. Called NMAC, to complain. Gas, Gas, Gas... Maybe 13 or 14 in the city...suppose to be 20. Highway, rode to vegas. Average 22.

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  Best Ive owned - 2007 Nissan Murano
  By Chris - June 1 - 9:23 pm

  I got a leftover 2007 SL fully loaded (roof rack, nav, dvd, power pedals, HID, etc.) and so far it has been the best car Ive owned! Previously had 04 A4 and 01 S4. The Audis dont even compare to the feel of the Murano. The first weekend I took it to DC and back in less than 36 hours (5 hour drive each way) with no complaints. I looked at RDX, Edge, and the Rogue and this was by far the best of the bunch. I highly recommend to anyone, just dont expect anything more than 22 MPG.

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  Loving the Murano - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By angelab39 - May 31 - 10:00 am

  I love the Murano so far. It is fun to drive, stylish, and practical as well. I have had it for about three weeks now and thus far have no complaints. I am not wishing for snow, but am anxious to see how the AWD handles.

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  Nissan Murano FWD SE - 2005 Nissan Murano
  By Doug - May 26 - 5:56 am

  Ive always liked the exterior styling of the Murano, with the two chromed tailpipes protruding from under the swept-up rear cabin area.(Impractical) black paint color makes it look even more "Darth Vader"-ish. Being a knowledgeable car nut, I was pleasantly surprised by the quick acceleration(0-6 in 8.0 sec) of the V6, given the 2-ton weight, but I think this is due to the ingenious CVT transmission(a modern version of the old Buick DynaFlow) which also helps maximize fuel economy(25mpg on the highway). The SEs suspension is a bit harsh, and there is some noticeable road noise intrusion into the cabin. Controls are well positioned and easily learned, and FINALLY---the perfect sunvisor.