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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  Nissan "Murano" - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By kblueswim - February 13 - 2:00 am

  Has a very smooth ride, even over hard roads. The controls are all with in easy reach. The leg room in the back seats is very roomy.

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  Initial Impressions Are... WOW! - 2009 Nissan Murano
  By Allan - February 12 - 12:50 am

  We recently bought the LE with dual moon-roofs, after owning a Durango for 9 years. When looking at prospective cars, 3 things were imperative... driver side room (I am 66) with plenty of cargo area (3 dogs and kayaks), dependability and mpg. I focused on the Murano, CRV, Pilot and Highlander. Based on research and without test driving, I was fairly certain I would be purchasing a CRV or a Highlander. I ended up test driving the Murano and was sold immediately. It was the most comfortable, spacious, ergonomic and moderately priced when factoring mpg. I originally was thinking the SL model would be my choice. But after driving the LE, I was willing to spend the extra $$$.

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  Ive crossed over... - 2005 Nissan Murano
  By writeandre - February 8 - 4:20 pm

  Formerly a 328i owner, I wanted something that had more space but didnt compromise function for fashion, nor quality for character. For me, the Murano definitely has the space and quality I was looking for and the leather package added all the extras I might have missed in the BMW. Unfortunately, the standard- issue CVT transmission was a let-down but the ability to shift into sport- mode has me back in the fast lane.

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  murano murano - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By sevendedlysins - February 8 - 10:00 am

  excellant to look at some flaws in design especially wipers a recall is in the works====== for shifter nut not tightened properly (on a $30000 car a bit perplexing also rain gets in the hatch area as well as the doors when existing. car looks good but there has to be improvements. almost sorry i didnt wait for second year model.

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  Another winner - 2009 Nissan Murano
  By NewCarGuy - February 7 - 11:36 pm

  When my lease on my 04 Murano expired I went to lease a new 09, but was surprised with the significantly higher lease payment. After driving many competitors (MDX, RDX, RX350, Edge, RAV4, Pilot, FX) I still came back to the Murano. Compared to the previous model the 09 offers a more comfortable seat along with a smoother ride. There seems to be plenty of power, but I notice a slight lag off the line compared to my older Murano (it may just be something I have to get used to). Nissan has another winner on its hands!

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  2005 Nissan Murano - 2005 Nissan Murano
  By Lynn - February 7 - 11:30 pm

  At first, I loved my Murano. No problems for months and months. To date, the car has not "broken down", but the engine is starting to concern me with odd noises and hesitations upon acceleration. The dealer finds no technical problems, so I am left to worry and baby the car. Also, the fuel economy is embarassing. Chevy Tahoe beats my 18 mpg by 6-7mpg. It is much bigger and it is just fine on 87 octane, where the Murano prefers 93. Whatever happened to Japanese dominance in that dept?

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  WOW - 2007 Nissan Murano
  By Jack - February 4 - 9:36 am

  Just bought it. The car drives beautifully. Loving the design exterior and interior. Lots of room in the back. Been using it to move lots of stuff. Can also keep track of gas mileage constantly.

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  Performance SUV - 2004 Nissan Murano
  By soccermom - February 2 - 9:50 pm

  With three growing boys and many weekend road trips, we really appreciate the roominess and power. They are all headed toward six feet tall and have no complaints. Also, the side curtain airbags give me peace of mind. My husband loves the horsepower, and sometimes leaves his BMW in the garage. The acceleration, even fully loaded and uphill, is very responsive and satisfying. I understand the average gas mileage (18.8) is good for an SUV. I chose the Murano over the Lexus because of the better gas mileage, better turning radius, sportier ride, and much lower price.

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  You Cant Go Wrong - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By Juan from DC - February 2 - 10:00 am

  This car is a bargain compared to Acura MDX, Honda Pilot, Lexus RX330. Its comfortable, has acceleration, maneuverability, convenient/easy to operate interior gadgets(tailgate, seats, etc), has a phenomenal Bose radio, and the styling is a head turner. Handles like a car and is built solid. Fuel use: 19mph in gross rush hour traffic (like average speed of only 27 mph per week (thats not a misprint). Nav system is tremendous convenience. It has a traffic avoidance feature that helps getting around wicked traffic jams. Its easy to use. Caution: If youre looking for a real offroad capability...dont buy a Murano. Other than that...this car is an ace.

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  Nissan Murano - Refined Car - 2003 Nissan Murano
  By Tiyo - February 2 - 10:00 am

  I have had my Murano for three weeks now and I totally love it. Love everything about this car, the interior build is of nice quality, the exterior is sharp looking too - head turner! Its got a smooth ride, wouldnt know you are in an USV. Overall, good car!