Nissan Murano third generation (code designation Z52) is a premium crossover that combines dynamic design, a spacious interior and advanced technology. Produced from 2015 to 2026, it became a logical continuation of the successful line, but with an emphasis on comfort and safety. Unlike its predecessors, the third generation received a completely updated platform, a hybrid version for some markets and an expanded list of options.

This crossover is positioned as an alternative Toyota Highlander And Ford Edge, but with a more pronounced emphasis on premium. In Russia, the model was officially sold since 2016, but after leaving Nissan support and deliveries of new cars ceased from the market in 2022. However, on the secondary market Murano Z52 remains in demand due to its reliability, comfort and stylish design.

Technical characteristics and engines

Third generation Murano offered with two types of power units: gasoline VQ35DE and a hybrid installation. Gasoline engine capacity 3.5 l develops 260 hp and works in tandem with a variator Xtronic. The hybrid version (available only in some markets, such as Japan) combines a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 250 hp.

Transmission Features:

  • 🔧 CVT Xtronic with manual shift mode (6 virtual gears).
  • 🚗 All-wheel drive Intelligent AWD with the ability to disable the rear axle to save fuel.
  • ⚡ System Eco Mode, optimizing fuel consumption (on average 9.5–11 l/100 km in a mixed cycle).

Suspension Murano Z52 independent on all wheels: front - MacPherson, rear - multi-link. This provides good handling and comfort on rough roads. Ground clearance is 180 mm, which allows you to confidently move around the city and light off-road.

📊 Which engine would you prefer in the Nissan Murano?
  • 3.5 V6 petrol
  • 2.5 hybrid
  • Diesel (if there was one)
  • It doesn’t matter, the main thing is the equipment

Options and equipment

In Russia Nissan Murano The third generation was officially supplied in three trim levels: SE, SV And SL. Top version Platinum Edition was only available in select overseas markets. Even in the basic configuration, the crossover was equipped with:

  • 📱 8-inch touch screen with support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto.
  • 🔊 Audio system Bose with 11 speakers.
  • 🚘 All-round camera Around View Monitor.
  • 🛡️ Collision avoidance system Forward Collision Warning.

In versions SV And SL added:

  • 🪑 Ventilation and heating of the front seats.
  • 🔦 Adaptive LED headlights.
  • 🅿️ Keyless entry and engine start from a button.
  • 🌡️ Dual-zone climate control with air purification function Plasma Cluster.
What's included in the Platinum Edition?

The top trim added: instrument panels with a 7-inch display, premium leather interior with contrast stitching, parking assist with automatic braking, and a heated steering wheel and rear seats.

One of the key advantages Murano Z52 is a spacious interior with trunk volume 1100 l (with rear seats folded down). Rear passengers receive 980 mm legroom - more than many competitors.

Pros and cons of the third generation

Like any car, Nissan Murano has its strengths and weaknesses. Among the main benefits:

  • ✅ Design: Futuristic exterior with floating roof and aggressive front end.
  • ✅ Comfort: One of the best sound insulation in the class and soft suspension.
  • ✅ Reliability: Engine VQ35DE known for its durability (with proper maintenance, the mileage to capital is 300,000+ km).
  • ✅ Equipment: Even the basic versions are well equipped.

However, there is also disadvantages, which are worth knowing:

  • ❌ Fuel consumption: In the city it can reach 14–16 l/100 km.
  • ❌ CVT: Requires regular oil changes (every 60,000 km) and is afraid of overheating.
  • ❌ Spare parts price: Some parts (such as stabilizer links or sensors) are more expensive than competitors.
  • ❌ Electronics: Sometimes the multimedia system is glitchy, especially after updates.
💡

When purchasing a used Murano, be sure to check the CVT service history. If the oil has not been changed for more than 90,000 km, there is a high risk of expensive repairs.

Typical problems and weaknesses

Despite the reliability, Murano Z52 There are several “diseases” that owners complain about:

  1. Oil leaks from under the valve cover (especially on runs beyond 100,000 km). It can be solved by replacing the gasket and cleaning the channels.
  2. Knock in the front suspension — stabilizer struts or control arm silent blocks are often to blame.
  3. Problems with the variator: Jerky acceleration or delayed response to the gas pedal. The reason is belt wear or oil contamination.
  4. Throttle Position Sensor Failure, which leads to unstable idle speed.

The owners also note:

  • 🔋 Rapid battery discharge in cold weather (especially if you do not turn off the system Intelligent Key).
  • 🎵 Speaker crunch Bose at high volume (solved by replacing or reflashing the amplifier).
  • 🚪 Doors creaking when opening/closing (requires adjustment of hinges or lubrication).
💡

The most expensive part of the Murano to repair is the CVT. Replacing it costs 300,000–500,000 rubles, so when buying a used car with a mileage of over 120,000 km, diagnostics from an authorized dealer is recommended.

⚠️ Attention: If vibration occurs when driving at speeds of 60–80 km/h, this may indicate an imbalance in the driveshaft. Ignoring the problem leads to accelerated wear of the bearings.

Comparison with competitors

In my class Nissan Murano competes with Toyota Highlander, Ford Edge, Hyundai Santa Fe And Kia Sorento. For clarity, let’s compare the key parameters:

Parameter Nissan Murano Toyota Highlander Ford Edge Hyundai Santa Fe
Engine (base) 3.5 V6 (260 hp) 2.5 4-cyl (203 hp) 2.0 EcoBoost (245 hp) 2.5 (180 hp)
Fuel consumption (combined) 10.5 l/100 km 8.7 l/100 km 9.8 l/100 km 8.9 l/100 km
Trunk volume 1100 l 810 l 1110 l 850 l
Price on the secondary market (2020 onwards) from 2.8 million ₽ from 3.2 million ₽ from 2.5 million ₽ from 2.3 million ₽

Murano wins has competitors in design, comfort and equipment, but loses in efficiency and cost of service. Toyota Highlander more reliable, but less dynamic, and Ford Edge cheaper to repair, but has a less spacious interior.

Tips for selection and operation

If you are considering Nissan Murano Z52 on the secondary market, pay attention to the following points:

Mileage and service history (especially CVT oil changes)

Suspension condition (struts, silent blocks, wheel bearings)

Operation of electronics (multimedia, sensors, cameras)

No oil or antifreeze leaks

Condition of the brake system (discs, pads, calipers) -->

During operation:

  • 🛢️ Change the oil in the variator every 60,000 km (original liquid NS-3).
  • 🔧 Check the engine oil level at least once every 5,000 km (engine VQ35DE prone to oil-guzzling).
  • 🔋 Monitor the condition of the battery - a weak battery can cause malfunctions Intelligent Key.
  • 🚿 Wash radiators regularly (especially in summer) to avoid overheating.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use non-original suspension parts - this may lead to poor handling and premature wear of the parts. Original stabilizer links last 2–3 times longer than analogues.

To increase the service life of the variator, avoid:

  • 🚗 Sudden starts and long slips.
  • 🏔️ Towing heavy trailers (maximum weight - 900 kg).
  • 🔥 Overheating (for example, when driving in traffic jams in the heat).

Owner reviews

Opinions about Nissan Murano Z52 are divided, but overall the car receives high marks for comfort and design. Here are some real reviews:

Pros according to owners:

  • 💺 “The salon is very spacious, even for tall passengers. The seats are comfortable, you don’t get tired even on long trips.”
  • 🎶 "Sound Bose up to par - better than many German competitors.”
  • 🚗 “The handling is excellent for such a large crossover, especially with all-wheel drive.”

Cons:

  • 💸 “Service is expensive, especially if you go to an official dealer.”
  • ⛽ “Fuel consumption in the city makes you think about switching to a hybrid.”
  • 🔧 “The variator requires careful handling - if you don’t take care, the repair will cost a pretty penny.”

Many note that Murano Ideal for families and long trips, but not for off-road or aggressive driving. Owners also advise buying cars with mileage up to 100,000 km - after this threshold, typical “diseases” begin to appear.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Murano 3rd generation

Is it possible to install gas equipment on a Murano with a VQ35DE engine?

Technically possible, but not recommended. Engine VQ35DE sensitive to detonation, and gas increases the load on the piston group. In addition, this will void the warranty (if it is still valid) and may lead to problems with the CVT.

How often should you change your engine oil?

Official regulations - every 15,000 km, but when operating in urban conditions or frequent trips over short distances, it is better to reduce the interval to 10,000 km. Use oil 5W-30 or 5W-40 with permission Nissan.

What tires are best for Murano?

Factory wheel size - 235/65 R18 or 235/55 R20 (in top trim levels). Suitable for winter:

  • Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 (soft, good grip on ice).
  • Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 (comfortable, low noise).
  • Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 (durable, wear-resistant).

Can be used in summer Continental CrossContact LX2 or Pirelli Scorpion Verde.

How much does it cost to service a Murano per year?

When running 15,000 km/year average costs will be:

  • 🛢️ Changing oil and filters - 8 000–12 000 ₽.
  • 🔧TO-1 (replacing the air filter, checking the brakes) — 15 000–20 000 ₽.
  • 🔄 Changing the oil in the variator - 12 000–18 000 ₽ (every 60,000 km).
  • 🚘 Unforeseen expenses (for example, replacing racks or sensors) - 20 000–50 000 ₽.

Total: 55,000–100,000 ₽/year depending on the condition of the car.

Can the Murano be driven off-road?

Clearance 180 mm and all-wheel drive Intelligent AWD allow you to overcome light off-road conditions (dirt roads, snow, wet grass). However, the crossover is not intended for serious off-road driving - there are no differential locks, and the variator is afraid of overheating under prolonged loads.