Nissan Murano Z51 is the flagship crossover of the Japanese brand, which combines prestigious design, advanced technology and proven reliability. This model, presented on the market since 2015 (restyling in 2021), still remains relevant thanks to its unique combination of comfort and dynamics. But what's hiding under the hood? Z51 — the most powerful version in the line? In this material we will analyze all the key parameters: from the engine to the multimedia system, and also reveal the nuances that dealers are silent about.

Feature Murano Z51 - it's not only 3.5 liter V6 with 260 hp, but also adaptive suspension, all-wheel drive Intelligent AWD with the regime Lock for off-road use, as well as premium leather interior trim Semi-Aniline. However, the model also has controversial points: for example, Fuel consumption in the urban cycle can exceed 14 l/100 km with aggressive driving style, which is not always indicated in official brochures. Next is a detailed analysis of each aspect, which will help you make an informed purchasing decision.

Engine and transmission: the heart of the Murano Z51

Under the hood Nissan Murano Z51 installed naturally aspirated gasoline engine VQ35DE volume of 3.5 liters, which develops 260 hp at 6000 rpm And 336 Nm of torque already from 4400 rpm. This engine is known for its reliability (subject to timely maintenance) and has been used by Nissan since 2001 in various modifications. Works with him Xtronic continuously variable transmission with 7-speed simulation and manual switching mode.

Transmission Features:

  • 🔧 The variator is adapted to high torque thanks to the strengthening of the belt and pulleys.
  • ⚡ System D-Step Logic simulates gear shifts for a sportier driving experience.
  • ❄️ In winter mode, the variator later switches to “higher gears” to avoid slipping.
  • ⚠️ When overtaking on the highway, it is recommended to use the Sport — this reduces the delay in response to the gas pedal.

However, the variator also has weak points. For example, when towing a trailer weighing more than 900 kg (the maximum permissible for Murano) the oil may overheat, which reduces the transmission life. Owners also note increased noise during cold starts in cold weather - this is a feature of the torque converter operation, which is not a malfunction.

📊 What type of transmission do you prefer in crossovers?
  • Automatic (automatic transmission)
  • CVT (CVT)
  • Robot (DCT)
  • Mechanics
  • Doesn't matter

Fuel consumption: real numbers vs official data

By passport Nissan Murano Z51 spends:

  • 🏙️ Urban cycle: 12.3 l/100 km
  • 🛣️ Extra-urban cycle: 7.6 l/100 km
  • ⚖️ Combined cycle: 9.4 l/100 km

However, real reviews from owners show different numbers. For example, in Moscow traffic jams the consumption can reach 14–16 l/100 km, and on the highway at a speed of 120–130 km/h - about 9–10 l/100 km. The reasons for this gap are:

  • 🔥 High engine power (260 hp), requiring more fuel to maintain dynamics.
  • 🏔️ All wheel drive Intelligent AWD, which connects automatically and increases the load.
  • ⚙️ CVT optimized for comfort rather than efficiency.

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To reduce fuel consumption, turn off the mode Sport in city traffic and use cruise control on the highway. This will save up to 1–1.5 l/100 km.

Driving conditions Official consumption (l/100 km) Actual consumption (l/100 km)
City (traffic) 12.3 14–16
Route (90–110 km/h) 7.6 8–9
Mixed cycle 9.4 10–12
Winter mode (with heating) — 15–18

⚠️ Attention: When using fuel with an octane rating lower AI-95 Detonation may occur, especially in hot weather. This may damage the piston group. Nissan officially recommends filling only AI-95 or AI-98.

Suspension and handling: comfort vs sportiness

Murano Z51 equipped with an adaptive suspension with electronically controlled shock absorber stiffness. Depending on the selected mode (Normal, Sport, Eco) suspension characteristics change:

  • 🌿 Eco: the softest settings for comfort, but rolls are possible when cornering.
  • ⚡ Sport: rigidity increases by 30%, body sway is reduced.
  • ❄️ Snow: Automatic adjustment of stiffness depending on road grip.

Chassis Features:

  • 🔄 All wheel drive Intelligent AWD distributes torque between axles in a ratio from 100:0 to 50:50.
  • 🛡️ Multi-link rear suspension provides better handling than torsion beam competitors (e.g. Toyota Venza).
  • ⚠️ When replacing shock absorbers, it is necessary to use original parts or electronically controlled analogues (for example, Kayaba or Bilstein B4).

What happens if you turn off the adaptive suspension?

When the system is turned off (for example, due to a faulty sensor), the suspension goes into the "hard" mode by default. This reduces comfort but does not affect safety. However, long-term driving in this mode can accelerate the wear of silent blocks.

Turning radius Murano Z51 amounts to 11.6 meters - this is worse than compact crossovers (for example, Nissan Qashqai turns in 10.6 m), but better than many full-size SUVs. The steering is equipped with an electric power steering with a variable ratio, which makes the steering wheel more informative at high speeds.

Dimensions and Capacity: How spacious is the Murano?

Nissan Murano Z51 belongs to the class of mid-size crossovers, but in terms of internal space it is close to full-size models. Its dimensions:

  • 📏 Length: 4898 mm
  • 📐 Width: 1941 mm (with mirrors - 2125 mm)
  • 📊 Height: 1715 mm
  • 🚗 Wheelbase: 2825 mm
  • 📦 Trunk volume: 891 l (with seats folded - 1890 l)

For comparison: Toyota Highlander the trunk is smaller (853 l), and Hyundai Santa Fe - 810 l. However, Murano There is a peculiarity: the rear row of seats does not move along the longitudinal axis, which limits the options for transforming the interior. But the front seats have an electric drive with memory settings (included in Z51), and the rear sofa is heated and ventilated.

Parameter Nissan Murano Z51 Toyota Highlander Hyundai Santa Fe
Trunk volume (l) 891 853 810
Wheelbase (mm) 2825 2850 2765
Ceiling height (front/rear) 1020/980 mm 1000/970 mm 990/960 mm
Max. towing weight (kg) 907 2268 1650

⚠️ Attention: When installing a tire larger than 235/55 R20 (standard for Z51) it is possible to hit the arches when the steering wheel is turned completely. This is true for high profile winter tires.

Security and electronics: what is Murano hiding?

Nissan Murano Z51 equipped with a full range of active and passive safety systems, including:

  • 🚨 ProPILOT Assist — semi-autonomous driving (lane keeping + adaptive cruise control).
  • 👁️ Intelligent Around View Monitor — circular camera with trajectory projection.
  • 🛑 Predictive Forward Collision Warning — prediction of collisions with vehicles ahead.
  • 🔦 Intelligent Auto Headlights — automatic switching between high and low beam.

However, there are nuances:

  • 🔋 System ProPILOT only works up to speed 100 km/h and requires the driver's hands to remain on the steering wheel (controlled by a force sensor).
  • 📵 Cameras Around View can become contaminated with slush, which leads to false alarms of parking sensors.
  • ⚠️ When the mode is activated Off-Road (available in some regions) disables stability control, requiring caution on slippery surfaces.

Parking sensors (front and rear)|All-round cameras (lens cleanliness)|Adaptive cruise control operation|Condition of brake discs (at least 22 mm thick)|System functionality ProPILOT-->

In crash tests IIHS (2021) Murano received the highest rating Top Safety Pick+, however, in the SUV side impact test it performed worse than Volvo XC60. The reason was the lack of additional airbags for rear passengers.

Interior and equipment: premium or imitation?

Interior Murano Z51 made in premium sport style: leather combination Semi-Aniline, aluminum inserts and soft plastic. The standard package includes:

  • 🪑 Electric seats with memory settings and ventilation function.
  • 🎶 Audio system Bose with 11 speakers and technology Active Noise Cancellation.
  • 🌡️ Three-zone climate control with air ionizer.
  • 📱 Wireless charging for smartphones (supports Qi).

However, there are also controversial points:

  • 🔌 Connector USB-C absent - only traditional USB-A.
  • 🖥️ Multimedia screen (8 inches) does not support Apple CarPlay in wireless mode (cable required).
  • ⚠️ The leather trim of the steering wheel may peel off after 3-4 years of use (especially in versions before 2020).

The trunk volume can be increased by folding the rear row of seats in a 60:40 ratio. In this case, the floor turns out to be almost flat, but there remains a small threshold with a height of ~5 cm. For the transportation of long loads (for example, skis), a hatch is provided in the central armrest.

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The main advantage of the salon Murano Z51 - this is ergonomics: all controls are located at hand, and visibility is at the level of the best in the class.

Comparison with competitors: who is better?

Nissan Murano Z51 competes with models such as Toyota Venza, Hyundai Santa Fe And Ford Edge. Let's compare the key parameters:

Parameter Nissan Murano Z51 Toyota Venza Hyundai Santa Fe Ford Edge ST
Power (hp) 260 219 (hybrid) 230–281 335
Consumption in the city (l/100 km) 12.3–14 5.7 (hybrid) 10.5–12 13.8
Price (market average, rub.) 3.8–4.5 million 4.1–4.8 million 3.5–4.2 million 4.3–5.0 million
Warranty (years) 3 5 (hybrid system) 5 3

Benefits Murano Z51:

  • ✅ More powerful engine compared to Venza and basic Santa Fe.
  • ✅ Premium interior trim (at the level Infiniti QX50).
  • ✅ Adaptive suspension with a choice of modes.

Disadvantages:

  • ❌ High fuel consumption (loses to hybrids).
  • ❌ Less towing capacity compared to Ford Edge.
  • ❌ Lack of all-wheel drive with differential lock (unlike Santa Fe with HTRAC).

⚠️ Attention: When choosing between Murano And Venza keep in mind that the hybrid Toyota Cheaper to operate, but inferior in dynamics. If power and premium quality are important to you - Z51 will be the best choice.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Murano Z51

What is the service life of the VQ35DE engine in the Murano Z51?

With proper maintenance (oil change every 10,000 km, original filters), the engine runs easily 300,000–350,000 km. However, after 200,000 km, the timing chain may need to be replaced (lifespan ~150,000 km) and valve adjustment. It is important to monitor the oil level - VQ35DE prone to oil starvation during aggressive driving.

Is it possible to install gas equipment on the Murano Z51?

Technically possible, but not recommended. CVT Xtronic not designed to work with gas, which can lead to premature wear of the belt and pulleys. In addition, Nissan voids the warranty if HBO is detected. An alternative is to use E85 (bioethanol), but this requires reconfiguring the ECU.

Which tires are best for winter?

Optimal options for Murano Z51 (size 235/55 R20):

  • 🏔️ Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 - better grip on ice.
  • ❄️ Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 — balance of comfort and controllability.
  • 💰 Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 2 - a budget option with good reviews.

⚠️ Avoid studded tires with high spikes - this can damage the inner surface of the rims (especially when driving on asphalt).

How often do you need to change the oil in the variator?

Official regulations - every 90,000 km, but in practice it is better to reduce the interval to 60,000 km, especially when operating in urban mode. Use only original fluid NS-3 or analogues (Idemitsu CVTF, Ravenol CVT). Changing the oil in the variator requires special equipment to completely pump the system.

What are the most common breakdowns of the Murano Z51?

According to service centers, typical problems:

  • 🔋 System sensor failure ProPILOT (usually due to contamination of the chambers).
  • 🔊 Front suspension creaks (cause: wear of stabilizer bushings).
  • 💡 Burnout of LEDs in headlights (especially in versions 2015–2018).
  • 📻 Malfunctions in the multimedia system (solved by flashing).

Most problems are “age-related” in nature and appear after 100,000 km.