Nissan Murano is one of the most recognizable crossovers of the Japanese brand, which has held its position in the premium segment for more than 20 years. This model has always stood out among competitors with its non-standard design, spacious interior and unique combination of comfort and cross-country ability. But what is it really like? Murano today? Should we consider it as a family car, or is it more of a stylish SUV for city trips?

In this article we will look at all generations Nissan Murano, let's analyze its technical features, compare it with its main competitors (like Toyota Highlander And Ford Edge) and open hidden problems that dealers are silent about. We’ll also provide a checklist for checking used copies and answer the most common questions from potential owners.

Model history: how the Nissan Murano evolved

Debut Nissan Murano took place at the 2002 North American International Auto Show. Then it was a revolutionary step: the Japanese offered the market the first full-size crossover on the platform Nissan Altima, combining the features of an SUV and a minivan. The name "Murano" was taken in honor of the Italian island famous for its glassblowing art - a nod to the sophisticated design and "transparency" of the concept.

Over the years of production, the model went through four generations, each of which adapted to changing trends:

  • 🔹 1st generation (Z50, 2002–2007) — a “pioneer” with a 3.5-liter V6 (245 hp), all-wheel drive and an unusual “streamlined” body shape for that time. The main trump card is the system All-Mode 4WD with a clutch in the rear axle.
  • 🔹 2nd generation (Z51, 2007–2014) — a more aggressive exterior, improved sound insulation and the appearance of a hybrid version (US only). In Russia it was sold with a petrol 3.5 V6 (265 hp) and a CVT.
  • 🔹 3rd generation (Z52, 2014–2021) — radical redesign in the “boomerang” style, LED optics and premium interior trim. The 2.5 turbo engine (249 hp) debuted for some markets.
  • 🔹 4th generation (2026–...) — so far only concepts, but a transition to a hybrid platform is expected Nissan CMF-CD and electric version Murano EV.

Interesting fact: in Japan Murano sold under the name Nissan Stagea (until 2007), and in Australia - as Nissan Terrano (second generation). This created confusion among collectors as Terrano associated with budget SUVs.

📊 Which generation of Nissan Murano do you like best?
  • 1st (2002–2007)
  • 2nd (2007–2014)
  • 3rd (2014–2021)
  • Waiting for something new (2026+)

Technical characteristics: engines, transmission, suspension

One of the key features Nissan Murano there was always his “motor range”. Unlike many competitors, the Japanese relied on naturally aspirated V6s rather than turbo engines. This gave advantages in reliability, but disadvantages in dynamics and fuel consumption. Let's look at the main power units:

Model Engine Power Box Consumption (city/highway)
1st generation (2002–2007) VQ35DE 3.5 V6 245 hp 4-automatic transmission / CVT 13.5 / 9.0 l
2nd generation (2007–2014) VQ35DE 3.5 V6 265 hp CVT Jatco JR710E 12.8 / 8.5 l
3rd generation (2014–2021) VQ35DD 3.5 V6 (direct injection) 260 hp CVT Jatco CVT8 12.3 / 8.2 l
Hybrid (USA, 2014–2016) QR25DER 2.5 + electric motor 250 hp (total) CVT 10.5 / 7.8 l

Deserves special attention variator Jatco. In the first generations, it caused criticism due to “rubbery” dynamics and overheating, but after 2014, engineers improved the cooling system and added “virtual gears” to simulate a classic automatic machine. However, The service life of the variator on Murano rarely exceeds 200,000 km without major repairs - this is the weak point of the model.

Suspension Murano independent on all wheels (type MacPherson front and Multilink rear), which provides good handling, but makes the car sensitive to the quality of the roads. A ground clearance of 180–190 mm allows driving on light off-road conditions, but the crossover is not intended for serious off-road use.

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When test-driving the Murano, be sure to check the smoothness of the CVT at speeds of 40–60 km/h. Jerking or delays during acceleration may indicate belt wear or problems with the valve body.

Interior and equipment: how comfortable is the Nissan Murano?

Interior Murano has always been his thing. Designers Nissan We tried to make the interior as spacious and premium as possible, especially in top trim levels. For example, in the third generation they used:

  • 🛋️ Seats with memory (8 directions of adjustment, heating, ventilation as an option).
  • 🎛️ Digital dashboard (7" display with customizable display).
  • 🔊 Audio system Bose with 11 speakers and active noise reduction.
  • 🌡️ Three-zone climate control with air ionizer.

However, there are also controversial points. For example, plastic quality in basic versions it leaves much to be desired - over time the panels begin to creak. But the leather trim and stitching of the seats (in trim levels SL And Platinum) really at the level of premium brands.

Trunk volume is 500 liters (1,680 liters with seats folded), which is less than Toyota Highlander (580 l), but more than Ford Edge (470 l). The rear seats fold 60:40, but the floor is not level — this complicates the transportation of oversized cargo.

Secret features of the Murano interior

In top versions, a compartment for wireless charging of smartphones is hidden under the driver’s armrest (even if this is not in the list of options). And in the glove compartment there is a hidden USB port for connecting external drives to multimedia.

Weaknesses and typical problems of Nissan Murano

Despite its reputation as a reliable crossover, Murano has several “diseases” that you should know about before purchasing. Here TOP-5 problems according to reviews from owners and service centers:

  1. CVT Jatco - main headache. After 150,000 km, the belt and cones often need to be replaced (repair cost from 120,000 rubles). Symptoms: jerking, humming, lights up Check Engine with an error P17F0.
  2. Oil leaks from under the valve cover and crankshaft seals (especially on engines VQ35DE after 200,000 km).
  3. Electronics: Touch screen (multimedia) malfunctions NissanConnect “glitches” at frosts below –20°C).
  4. Suspension: knocking noises in the front struts Kayaba after 100,000 km (solved by replacing with Bilstein B4).
  5. Corrosion thresholds and arches - a problem for cars operated in regions with salt on the roads.
⚠️ Attention: When buying used Murano with a mileage of more than 100,000 km, be sure to check the oil change history of the variator. If there are no records, be prepared for repairs after 20–30,000 km.

On the other hand, engines VQ35 are considered “millionaires” if properly maintained. The main thing is to monitor the oil level (consumption up to 1 liter per 5,000 km is the norm for these engines) and change the timing belt on time (every 100,000 km).

☑️ Checklist for checking a used Nissan Murano

Done: 0 / 5

Comparison with competitors: Murano vs Highlander vs Edge

In my class Nissan Murano competes with models such as Toyota Highlander, Ford Edge, Hyundai Santa Fe And Kia Sorento. Let's compare the key parameters:

Parameter Nissan Murano Toyota Highlander Ford Edge
Price (new, Russia) from 3.8 million rub. from 4.1 million rub. from 3.5 million rub.
Power 260 hp (3.5 V6) 249 hp (3.5 V6 hybrid) 245 hp (2.0 EcoBoost)
Flow (mixed) 10.5 l/100 km 8.7 l/100 km 9.8 l/100 km
Warranty 3 years / 100,000 km 3 years / 100,000 km 3 years / 100,000 km
Benefits Design, spacious interior, reliable engine Hybrid, all-wheel drive AWD-i, reliability Price, dynamics, sports suspension

Who is the Murano suitable for? For those who appreciate:

  • 🎨 Unique design (not to be confused with other crossovers).
  • 🛋️ Comfort over long distances (good noise insulation, comfortable seats).
  • 🔧 Easy to maintain (parts are cheaper than Toyota).

Who is better? Highlander or Edge? If it's more important to you:

  • ⚡ Economical (hybrid Toyota wins in terms of consumption).
  • 💰 Lower cost of ownership (Ford cheaper to repair).
  • 🏔️ Patency (Highlander behaves better off-road).
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Nissan Murano outperforms competitors in interior design and comfort, but loses in transmission reliability and efficiency. If you're looking for a stylish family crossover for the city, the Murano is a great choice. For off-road or long trips it is better to go with Toyota.

Prices and configurations: what the market offers in 2026

On the Russian market Nissan Murano third generation (2014–2021) is presented in three main trim levels:

  1. SV (basic) - from 2.8 million rubles. (used, 2016–2018). Includes: 18-inch wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel, rear view camera, dual-zone climate control.
  2. SL (average) - from 3.2 million rubles. Added: panoramic roof, system Around View Monitor, audio system Bose, electric trunk drive.
  3. Platinum (top) - from 3.8 million rubles. Full stuffing: seat ventilation, adaptive cruise control, leather trim Semi-Aniline.

New Murano officially not sold in Russia since 2022 due to the departure Nissan from the market, but dealers still offer leftovers at prices starting from 4.5 million rubles. An alternative is parallel import from the UAE or the USA (price from 5 million rubles, but with guarantee risks).

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing “gray” imports, check that the lighting equipment complies with Russian GOSTs. Often you have to redo the headlights (cost ~50,000 rubles).

Cost of ownership (maintenance, insurance, consumables) for Murano higher than for Kia Sorento, but lower than for Lexus RX. For example:

  • 🔧 Maintenance (every 15,000 km) - from 12,000 rubles.
  • 🛡️ CASCO insurance - from 80,000 rubles/year (depending on the region).
  • ⛽ Fuel consumption (real) - 13–15 l/100 km in the city.

Owner reviews: pros and cons first hand

To form an objective opinion about Nissan Murano, we analyzed reviews on Drive2, Avto.ru and foreign forums (for example, NissanMurano.org). Here's what real owners say:

Pros:

  • ✅ “Invisible car for the traffic police” - thanks to its non-standard design, it is rarely stopped.
  • ✅ Excellent ergonomics: the steering wheel fits perfectly in your hands, the control buttons are intuitive.
  • ✅ Spacious interior - even tall passengers (height 190+ cm) can sit comfortably in the back.
  • ✅ Good sound insulation - on the highway at 120 km/h the cabin is quieter than in Volkswagen Tiguan.

Cons:

  • ❌ CVT is a “time bomb”. Many people complain about repairs after 150,000 km.
  • ❌ High fuel consumption. In the city in winter it’s easily 16–18 l/100 km.
  • ❌ Expensive spare parts. For example, an original headlight costs ~80,000 rubles, a bumper - from 50,000 rubles.
  • ❌ Weak corrosion resistance. Cars older than 5 years often have sills that rust.

Interesting point: many owners note that Murano “dislikes” short trips. If the car is driven only around the city (5–10 km per day), then the engine and variator will fail faster due to insufficient warming up.

📊 If you were buying a Nissan Murano, what would be the main criterion?
  • Design and comfort
  • Reliability and maintainability
  • Price and efficiency
  • Cross-country ability and all-wheel drive

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Murano

❓ Is it possible to tow a trailer with a Nissan Murano?

Yes, but with reservations. Maximum trailer weight is 1,500 kg (for models with 3.5 V6). However the variator does not like heavy loads, therefore:

  • Use only the original towbar (Nissan does not recommend universal ones).
  • Do not exceed the speed of 90 km/h.
  • Check the temperature of the variator (if it overheats, the AT Temp).

For regular towing it is better to choose Nissan Pathfinder - it is designed for heavier loads.

❓ What is the resource of the VQ35 engine?

With proper maintenance (oil change every 7,000–10,000 km, original filters), the engine runs easily 300,000–400,000 km. Main threats:

  • Overheating (monitor the antifreeze level).
  • Oil starvation (oil consumption up to 1 liter per 5,000 km is normal).
  • Timing chain wear (replacement every 150,000 km).

Weak point - phase shifters (after 200,000 km they may knock). Repairs cost 30,000–50,000 rubles.

❓ Is it worth buying a Murano with a mileage of more than 200,000 km?

You can, but only if:

  1. There is a complete service history (receipts, records of oil changes in the variator).
  2. The engine does not “eat” oil (more than 1 liter per 1,000 km is a red flag).
  3. The suspension and CVT have been recently rebuilt (check documents).

The best option is Murano 2017–2019 with mileage 80,000–120,000 km. Such machines have already been “run in”, but do not yet require major repairs.

❓ What kind of oil should I pour into the Murano variator?

Official recommendation - Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 (article KLE52-00004). Analogues:

  • Idemitsu CVTF (Japan).
  • Ravenol CVT (Germany).

⚠️ Important: The oil change in the variator needs to be done every 60,000 km (despite the official 90,000 km). Using non-original fluid causes the belt to slip.

❓ What is the ground clearance of the Nissan Murano and is it possible to drive off-road?

Clearance - 180 mm (for models up to 2021). This allows you to drive on:

  • Primers.
  • Light off-road (dry sand, gravel).
  • Snow (if not deeper than 20–30 cm).

However Murano - this is not an SUV. He doesn't have:

  • Downshift.
  • Crankcase protection.
  • Differential locks.

For serious offroading it is better to Nissan Pathfinder or Toyota 4Runner.