2013 Nissan Murano Review
As one of the first mid-sized cross over SUV’s released in the north American continent, Nissan has been able to identify and pinpoint the exact areas of what consumers are looking for. On its initial debut, the Nissan Murano became an instant hit thanks to its alternative looks to traditional SUV’s while maintaining a typical car-like feel, versatility, room and comfort.
The 2013 Nissan Murano has been following its successors since its second generation; but with a few genetic tweaks. The new 2013 Nissan Murano offers more luxury qualities and comes equipped with a more responsive transmission.
The Nissan Murano in general, is very generous in its offer with a good balance of both performance and comfort. All trim levels can be purchased with either an all-wheel drive system, or just front-wheel drive. The busty 3.5-liter V6 produces a good 260 hp and 240 ft-lbs of torque. This power is coupled to Nissan’s well acclaimed continuous variable transmission (CVT).
The Murano can be purchased in four different trim levels. The lower base S model includes dual-zone automatic climate control and a six-CD changer; however, there are a few desirable features that can only be purchased in the upper models. The SV adds a panoramic sunroof and a rear-view camera. The SL trim offers leather upholstery. Finally, the top line LE model jumps the gun with almost every purchase option equipped as standard.
Since it’s initial release, we’ve always admired Nissan Murano’s bold styling, comfortable interior, and its powerful V6 However, there have always been concerns with how reasonable the fuel economy of the Nissan Murano’s and limited rear-view visibility also suffered by many cross-over SUv’s. The EPA-estimated fuel economy is rated at only 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 18/23/20 with all-wheel drive. These numbers can only be described good at best when comparing with other competitors in the same sector. Nevertheless, the roominess, leather quality material used in the higher end model, and its performance capability makes the Murano a great choice in the cross-over SUV realm.
There isn’t much that will catch your eye in the interior space of the Nissan Murano. What you will appreciate though, is the elegant and aesthetics with high quality materials used throughout the interior cabin space. The gauges are also fairly generic, but the subtle color combination and simplicity helps calm down excess information and complexity to the driver. The map navigation, climate control, media and phone access on the built-in LCD display is also very user intuitive.
Rear-seat passengers will enjoy a plethora of head and legroom with the added bonus of reclinable rear seats in the Nissan Murano. The cargo space in the Murano measure 31.6 cubic feet with both sections of those 60/40-split seatbacks up and 64 cubic feet of room with them folded down. These numbers are respectable, but fall a bit short compared to other crossover SUV’s on the market
The 2013 Nissan Murano’s is equipped very well-tuned suspension resulting in excellent ride quality. The 3.6 liter V6 engine provides respectable power and the Nissan CVT transmission coupled to the power train delivers both drive-train smoothness while aiding in lower fuel economy. All things said, We most enjoyed both the performance and comfort offered by the Nissan Murano.