Nissan Murano III (Z52): everything you need to know about a crossover with character

Nissan Murano III (Z52) is a crossover that appeared on the market in 2014 and immediately attracted attention with its unusual design, comfortable interior and powerful engine. The model became the third generation of the legendary line, while maintaining the brand’s signature style - aggressive body lines, premium finishes and advanced technologies. However, behind the bright appearance there are both advantages and pitfalls that you should know about before purchasing.

This car is positioned as a “premium crossover”, but in fact it occupies an intermediate position between mass models and luxury brands. On the one hand, Murano Z52 offers a spacious interior with quality materials, adaptive suspension and all-wheel drive Intelligent AWD, and on the other hand, he suffers from typical “diseases” Nissan that period: problems with the variator, electronics and corrosion. In this article we will analyze all the key aspects - from technical characteristics to the nuances of operation in the secondary market.

Technical specifications Nissan Murano III (Z52)

Under the hood Murano Z52 The only engine installed was a gasoline one. V6 3.5 l (VQ35DE) power 260 hp (in some markets - 249 hp due to environmental regulations). This motor is known for its reliability, but requires high-quality maintenance. Torque is 336 Nm, which ensures confident acceleration to 100 km/h in 7.5–8.0 sec depending on the configuration.

Transmission - continuously variable variator Jatco JF011E, which became the main “sore spot” of the model. Despite its smooth running, it is sensitive to overheating and requires regular oil changes (every 60,000 km). Drive - full Intelligent AWD with the ability to distribute torque between axles in a ratio of 100:0 to 50:50.

Parameter	Meaning
Engine	V6 3.5 l (VQ35DE), 260 hp
Gearbox	CVT Jatco JF011E
Drive	Full Intelligent AWD / front
Fuel consumption (combined)	10.5–12.0 l/100 km
Trunk volume	1100 l (with seats folded)

The suspension is independent multi-link front and rear, which provides good handling, but makes the car sensitive to the quality of the road surface. Ground clearance is 175 mm, which is enough for urban conditions, but not enough for serious off-road use. Top trim levels were equipped with adaptive shock absorbers that automatically adjusted to your driving style.

Options and equipment: what did Nissan offer?

In Russia Murano Z52 officially sold in three trim levels: SE, SV And SL. Basic version SE included:

• 🔹 18-inch alloy wheels
• 🔹 Heated leather steering wheel
• 🔹 System NissanConnect with 8-inch screen
• 🔹 Rear view camera and parking sensors

Version SV added adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring system BLIS and a panoramic roof. Flagship SL differed:

• 🔹 20-inch wheels
• 🔹 Leather trim with ventilated front seats
• 🔹 Audio system Bose with 11 speakers
• 🔹 By the system Around View Monitor (all-round view)

Optionally offered packages Technology Package (additional security systems) and Premium Package (premium interior trim). Separately, it is worth noting the system Predictive Forward Collision Warning, which analyzed the behavior of cars ahead and warned of potential accidents.

What configurations were available abroad?

Outside Russia Murano Z52 also sold in versions Platinum (with a full range of options) and Hybrid (hybrid version with 2.5-liter engine and electric motor, 250 hp). The hybrid modification was not supplied to Russia due to low demand.

Typical problems and weaknesses of the Murano III

Despite the premium status, Murano Z52 inherited a number of “childhood diseases” characteristic of Nissan early 2010s. Main problems:

⚠️ Attention: CVT Jatco JF011E — the most vulnerable point of the model. If the oil is not changed in a timely manner (or a low-quality fluid is used), it begins to “kick”, make extraneous noise and ultimately requires expensive repairs. The average resource of a variator with proper maintenance is 150,000–200,000 km.

Other common faults:

• 🔧 Electronics problems: sensor failures, multimedia system glitches NissanConnect, spontaneous turning on of headlights or wipers.
• 🔧 Body corrosion: rust often appears on arches, sills and at the junction of plastic linings (especially in cars operated in regions with salt on the roads).
• 🔧 Oil leaks: through the valve cover gasket or camshaft seals (a typical problem for engines VQ35DE).
• 🔧 Wheel bearing wear: manifests itself as a humming noise at higher speeds 80 km/h.

Owners also complain about high fuel consumption in the urban cycle (up to 14–15 l/100 km) and the high cost of original spare parts. For example, replacing a variator costs 300 000–400 000 ₽, and the new turbocharger (for hybrid versions) - up to 200 000 ₽.

View service history (especially CVT oil changes)

Check the body for corrosion (arches, sills, underbody)

Test the variator for jerks and noises

Make sure all electronics (cameras, sensors, multimedia) are working properly

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Owner reviews: pros and cons of operation

Opinions about Murano Z52 are divided: some praise it for its comfort and dynamics, others criticize it for its unreliability. Among the main advantages, the owners highlight:

• ✅ Spacious salon with comfortable seats and a large trunk.
• ✅ Smooth ride thanks to adaptive suspension (in top trim levels).
• ✅ Powerful engine, which pulls easily even at high speeds.
• ✅ High-quality sound insulation (at the level of premium brands).

The most often mentioned disadvantages are:

• ❌ Expensive service (especially the CVT and electronics).
• ❌ Low reliability of the variator in case of non-compliance with the regulations.
• ❌ Weak corrosion resistance body
• ❌ Inconvenient button placement on the center console (you have to take your eyes off the road).

Interestingly, many owners note uneven tire wear — even with correct wheel alignment, tires wear out faster than competitors. This is due to the suspension settings and weight distribution (the front axle is more heavily loaded).

Comparison with competitors: which is better?

In my class Murano Z52 competed with such models as Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento And Ford Edge. Let's compare the key parameters:

Model	Engine	Box	Flow (mixed)	Used price (2018 onwards)
Nissan Murano III	V6 3.5 l, 260 hp	CVT	11.5 l/100 km	2.2–2.8 million ₽
Toyota Highlander	V6 3.5 l, 295 hp	Automatic 8 speed	10.8 l/100 km	2.5–3.2 million ₽
Hyundai Santa Fe	V6 3.3 l, 290 hp	Automatic 8 speed	11.2 l/100 km	1.8–2.4 million ₽
Ford Edge	V6 3.5 l, 285 hp	Automatic 6 speed	12.0 l/100 km	2.0–2.6 million ₽

Murano It outperforms competitors in interior design and comfort, but loses in reliability and cost of ownership. For example, Toyota Highlander with a classic automatic transmission and a more powerful engine it turns out to be more profitable in the long term. A Hyundai Santa Fe cheaper to maintain, although inferior in premium quality.

If you care style and comfort, and the budget allows you to spend money on repairs - Murano will do. If in first place reliability and efficiency, better take a closer look Highlander or Sorento.

Secondary market prices and selection tips

Cost Murano Z52 in the secondary market depends on the year of manufacture, mileage and configuration. At the beginning of 2026, prices are approximately as follows:

• 💰 2015–2016 onwards, mileage 80,000–120,000 km: 1.8–2.3 million ₽
• 💰 2017–2018 onwards, mileage 50,000–80,000 km: 2.3–2.8 million ₽
• 💰 2019–2020 onwards, mileage up to 50,000 km: 2.8–3.5 million ₽

When choosing a used copy, pay attention to:

1. Variator condition: oil should be changed every 60,000 km (check receipts).
2. Body: inspect the arches, sills and joints of the plastic trim for rust.
3. Electronics: test all sensors, cameras and multimedia.
4. Engine: listen when it's cold - there shouldn't be any extraneous knocks or leaks.

⚠️ Attention: Avoid vehicles with mileage over 150,000 km without full service history. The risk of failure of the variator or engine in this case is extremely high.

It is better to buy cars with a warranty from a dealer or proven examples with one owner. Average cost of ownership Murano Z52 (including maintenance, insurance and fuel) is about 15,000–20,000 ₽/month.

Tuning and modifications: how to improve Murano III?

Owners Murano Z52 often resort to tuning to improve appearance or dynamics. Popular destinations:

• 🔧 External tuning: installing body kits, tinting headlights, replacing the radiator grille with a sports one.
• 🔧 Suspension: replacing springs with stiffer ones (for example, from Tein) for better handling.
• 🔧 Engine: chip tuning (increasing power up to 280–300 hp), installation of direct inlet.
• 🔧 Salon: reupholstering the seats with premium leather, replacing the steering wheel with a sports one.

However, it is worth remembering that any changes in the design may affect reliability. For example, chip tuning increases the load on the variator, and a lowered suspension worsens cross-country ability. Some useful modifications include:

• 🔹 Installation of additional crankcase protection (relevant for regions with bad roads).
• 🔹 Replacing standard wheels with wider ones (for example, 255/50 R20).
• 🔹 Installation of additional sound insulation (especially in wheel arches).

If you are planning to tune Murano, start small: updating your media (for example, installing Android Auto through Joying or Pumpkin), replacing LED lamps with brighter ones and installing parking sensors (if they are not included in the package).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Murano III (Z52)

❓ How often do you need to change the oil in the Murano Z52 variator?

Official regulations Nissan provides for changing the oil in the variator every 90,000 km, but in practice it is better to reduce the interval to 60,000 km, especially if the car is operated in urban mode or in hot climates. Use only original fluid NS-3 or its analogues (for example, Idemitsu CVTF).

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

Yes, Murano Z52 allows towing a trailer weighing up to 907 kg (without brakes) or 1588 kg (with brakes). However, keep in mind that the variator does not like high loads, so for regular towing it is recommended to install an additional transmission cooling radiator.

❓ Which tires are best to choose for Murano III?

Factory tire sizes: 235/65 R18 or 235/55 R20. Models suitable for the winter season Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 or Michelin X-Ice North 4. In summer you can consider Continental CrossContact LX2 or Pirelli Scorpion Verde. Avoid tires that are too wide (eg 255/50 R20), as they increase the load on the suspension.

❓ How much does it cost to replace a CVT on a Murano Z52?

Cost of a new variator Jatco JF011E is about 250 000–300 000 ₽, plus work - more 50 000–80 000 ₽. Total: 300 000–380 000 ₽. An alternative is a contract variator from Japan (about 150 000–200 000 ₽), but its resource may be unpredictable.

❓ What is the real fuel consumption of the Murano III?

According to the passport, consumption in the combined cycle is 10.5–11.0 l/100 km, but in practice the owners note:

• 🔹City: 13–15 l/100 km
• 🔹 Route: 8.5–9.5 l/100 km
• 🔹 Winter (with heating): up to 16–18 l/100 km

Consumption depends on driving style and fuel quality. Gasoline use AI-95 instead of AI-92 can reduce engine appetite by 5–10%.