Crossover Nissan Murano is one of the most recognizable cars of the Japanese brand, combining the elegance of a sedan and the practicality of an SUV. Its appearance has always stood out from the competition thanks to its bold design, dynamic lines and premium details. But what exactly does it look like? Murano in different generations? What visual features make it unique? And why is this crossover so often confused with Infiniti?
In this article we will look at the exterior Nissan Murano in detail: from body shape and dimensions to small details like the design of headlights, rims and taillights. You will learn how to distinguish restyled versions from pre-restyled ones, which body colors are the most popular, and why the third generation has become the most controversial in terms of style. And let’s compare Murano with key competitors like Toyota Venza And Ford Edgeto understand how he wins (or loses) in terms of appearance.
Design evolution: how the appearance of the Nissan Murano changed over generations
First generation Nissan Murano (2003–2007) was revolutionary for its time. While most crossovers looked like puffed-up sedans or stripped-down SUVs, Murano proposed a completely different approach: smooth body contours, the absence of right angles and an aggressive front bumper with a large radiator grille. The designers were inspired by sports coupes, which was atypical for the class.
The second generation (2008–2014) relied on premium quality. The car became larger, there were chrome inserts, more sophisticated headlights and taillights in the style Infiniti. It was this version that often became an object for tuning - its shape was ideal for aggressive body kits and large rims. And also the second Murano became the first Nissan crossover with Intelligent AWD, which was reflected in the design of the rear (additional air ducts for cooling).
The third generation (2015–2023) divided the opinions of car enthusiasts. On the one hand, Murano received a futuristic design with a “floating” roof (thanks to the black edging of the pillars), LED optics and a “shark” front part. On the other hand, many considered it too “pretentious”, especially in comparison with its laconic competitors. But it was this version that became the most technologically advanced: adaptive headlights, an all-round camera and even a collision avoidance system ProPILOT Assist.
- 🔹 1st generation (Z50, 2003–2007): “coupe-like” silhouette, round headlights, minimalist chrome.
- 🔹 2nd generation (Z51, 2008–2014): premium style, large grille, “infinity-like” lights.
- 🔹 3rd generation (Z52, 2015–2023): futuristic design, floating roof, LED optics.
- First (2003–2007)
- Second (2008–2014)
- Third (2015–2023)
- Everyone is good in their own way
Dimensions and proportions: why Murano looks so massive
Nissan Murano has always belonged to the class of mid-size crossovers, but visually it seemed larger than many of its competitors. It's all about proportions: a long hood, a short overhang at the rear and a high seating position created the effect of a “floating” car. For comparison: the length of the third generation was 4,897 mm - almost like Toyota Highlander, but at the same time Murano looked more compact due to narrow pillars and a panoramic roof.
Interesting fact: despite the impressive dimensions, ground clearance Murano always been modest - just 170–180 mm (depending on generation). This explains why the car is so often “confused” with a SUV, and not with a real SUV. But the low center of gravity had a positive effect on handling - Murano behaves on the road more like a large hatchback than a crossover.
| Parameter | 1st generation (Z50) | 2nd generation (Z51) | 3rd generation (Z52) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length, mm | 4 780 | 4 840 | 4 897 |
| Width, mm | 1 885 | 1 900 | 1 915 |
| Height, mm | 1 720 | 1 725 | 1 710 |
| Wheelbase, mm | 2 780 | 2 825 | 2 825 |
| Ground clearance, mm | 180 | 175 | 170 |
⚠️ Attention: If you are planning to buy Murano for off-road driving, please note that its ground clearance is less than Nissan X-Trail (210 mm) or Toyota RAV4 (195 mm). Even with all-wheel drive, this crossover is intended more for asphalt and light off-road use.
Front and rear lights: how to recognize the generation by optics
One of the easiest ways to distinguish generations Nissan Murano — look at the headlights. The first generation had them round, with separate sections for low/high beams and turn signals. In the second generation, “drop-shaped” blocks with chrome edging appeared, which visually “stretched” the front part. And the third generation received fully LED optics with V-motion design (Nissan's signature style), which was later adopted Qashqai And X-Trail.
The taillights have also evolved, from simple rectangular units in the first generation to complex 3D shapes in the third. Interestingly, in the second generation the taillights were almost identical to those installed on Infiniti FX - this is another argument in favor of premium positioning Murano.
- 💡 1st generation: round headlights with yellow turn signals, simple taillights.
- 💡 2nd generation: “drop-shaped” headlights with chrome, taillights like Infiniti.
- 💡 3rd generation: LED optics with V-motion, 3D rear lights with a “floating effect”.
How to check if the headlights on a Murano are original?
On the third generation, the original LED headlights are marked Nissan on the inside of the block and a uniform glow without “spots”. Chinese replicas are often given out by dim light and a plastic rather than glass diffuser.
Wheels and rims: what sizes are suitable for Murano
The design of the rims is another visual highlight Nissan Murano. Standard wheel sizes ranged from 18" to 20" depending on the configuration. At the same time, the third generation offered optional 22-inch wheels in top versions are a record for a crossover of this class! However, it is worth remembering that large wheels impair comfort on bad roads.
An interesting nuance: on the second generation, disks often had 5 spokes with chrome inserts, which gave the car a more premium look. But the third generation received wheels with a “turbine” design, which visually enlarged the wheel arches.
| Generation | Standard size | Optional size | Recommended tires |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st (Z50) | 18" | 20" | 235/65 R18 |
| 2nd (Z51) | 18" | 20" | 235/60 R18 or 255/50 R20 |
| 3rd (Z52) | 18" | 20" or 22" | 235/65 R18 or 255/45 R22 |
⚠️ Attention: Installing 22-inch drives on the third generation Murano Requires low profile tires (e.g. 255/45 R22). This improves the appearance, but increases the risk of damage to the discs in the pits. In Russia, such wheels are often “cut” on roads with poor surfaces.
Body colors: which shades best emphasize the design
Nissan Murano always offered a wide selection of body colors, but some shades looked especially advantageous. For example, dark blue “Deep Blue Pearl” (available on the third generation) emphasized the futuristic design and made the car visually longer. A red "Brilliant Silver" (second generation) imparted a sporty character.
Among the rarest and most expensive flowers - «Midnight Garnet» (dark burgundy with metallic) and «Pearl White» (pearly white). The latter is especially popular in the USA, but in Russia it is difficult to keep clean. But black "Super Black" It is universal, but requires frequent polishing - the slightest scratches are noticeable on it.
- 🎨 Best colors for the first generation: silver, dark green, burgundy.
- 🎨 Best colors for the second generation: red, white, dark blue.
- 🎨 Best colors for the third generation: Deep Blue Pearl, Pearl White, Midnight Garnet.
If you choose Murano in dark color, pay attention to versions with a panoramic roof - it visually “lightens” the car and makes it less massive.
Comparison with competitors: what makes Murano stand out externally
In my class Nissan Murano competes with models such as Toyota Venza, Ford Edge, Hyundai Santa Fe And Kia Sorento. But unlike them, Murano always relied on design rather than practicality. For example, Santa Fe looks more “utilitarian”, with straight lines and large plastic trims, whereas Murano looks more like a premium car.
Compared to Toyota Venza, then the latter has a more “futuristic” design due to narrow front optics and a “pointed” hood. But Murano benefits from a more massive and solid appearance - it looks more expensive than it actually is. But Ford Edge closer in spirit: both crossovers have an aggressive front bumper and dynamic body lines, but Murano more elegant.
| Model | Design style | Key differences from Murano |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota Venza | Futuristic, minimalism | Narrow headlights, less massive body, hybrid platform. |
| Ford Edge | Sporty, aggressive | More angular design, less chrome, “evil” front bumper. |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | Utilitarian, family | Straight lines, large plastic overlays, less premium look. |
The Nissan Murano stands out from its competitors with its premium design, which is closer to Infiniti than mainstream crossovers. This is its main advantage - and at the same time a disadvantage if you want a “practical” appearance.
Tuning and modifications: how to improve the appearance of Murano
Many owners Nissan Murano strive to make it even more expressive. Popular tuning areas:
- Body kits and spoilers. The second generation is often equipped with body kits in the style Infiniti FX, and on the third - aggressive front bumpers with large air intakes.
- Tinting and vinyl. A carbon-effect film on the roof or mirrors visually “lightens” the car. And tinted rear lights (within reasonable limits) add sportiness.
- LED optics. Replacing standard lamps with LEDs or installing “angel eyes” in headlights is a classic of the genre.
- Wheel rims. 22-inch wheels with low-profile tires radically change the appearance, but require caution on the roads.
However, not all improvements are equally useful. For example, installation of a "kenguryatnik" on Murano looks ridiculous - this crossover is not intended for serious off-road use. But painting brake calipers in red or yellow adds sportiness without sacrificing practicality.
Make sure that modifications do not violate traffic regulations (tinting, lighting)
Check the compatibility of the discs with the hub (bolt pattern 5×114.3)
Choose high-quality materials (vinyl, LED lamps with a certificate)
Save standard parts in case of sale-->
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the appearance of the Nissan Murano
Why is the third generation Murano so unusual?
The design of the third generation was developed under the slogan “Resonance Concept” - the idea was to create a car that visually “resonates” with its environment. Hence the “floating” roof and complex body lines. However, this approach divided car enthusiasts: some found it futuristic, others - overly pretentious.
How to distinguish the restyled version of the second generation?
Restyling of the second generation (2011) can be recognized by:
- 🔸 Modified radiator grille (larger cells).
- 🔸 New rear lights with LED elements.
- 🔸 Updated wheels (20-inch options have appeared).
Which wheels are better for Murano: 18" or 20"?
The choice depends on priorities:
- 🔸 18": softer ride, cheaper tires, better for bad roads.
- 🔸 20": more stylish, better handling, but more expensive to maintain.
22-inch wheels are recommended only for ideal roads (for example, in the USA or UAE).
Why is Murano often confused with Infiniti?
Second generation Nissan Murano was developed in parallel with Infiniti FX, and they have many common design solutions: the shape of the headlights, taillights, chrome inserts. In addition, Murano was positioned as a “premium” Nissan crossover, and therefore used elements of the luxury brand’s styling. In the third generation, this similarity became less noticeable.
Which Murano color is the most practical?
From a practicality point of view, the best options are:
- 🔸 Silver (“Gun Metallic”): hides scratches and dust.
- 🔸 Dark gray (“Magnetic Black”): versatile, but requires care.
- 🔸 White (“Pearl White”): looks expensive, but marks dirt.
Red and blue colors are beautiful, but less practical - they show the slightest defects.