Nissan Murano Cabriolet - This is one of the most unusual and controversial models in the history of the Japanese automobile industry. Introduced in 2010, this car combined the features of a full-size crossover and a convertible, making it unique from its competitors. Today Murano Cabriolet became a real rarity: its production was curtailed after just three years, and such cars are extremely rare on the secondary market.
Why Nissan decided to undertake such a bold experiment? In the early 2010s, the convertible market was going through hard times, while crossovers, on the contrary, were gaining popularity. The company's engineers tried to combine the two segments, creating a car that could attract the attention of both open road enthusiasts and fans of high seats. However, the result was ambiguous: Murano Cabriolet became the only serial convertible crossover in the world, but failed to win mass love.
In this article we will figure out what it is Nissan Murano Cabriolet, what technical features it has, pros and cons, and whether it is worth considering it today as an option for purchasing on the secondary market.
Creation history: why Nissan released a convertible crossover
The idea to create open top crossover arose from Nissan not out of nowhere. In the 2000s, the company actively experimented with car designs and concepts. For example, in 2003 the concept was presented Murano CrossCabriolet - a prototype, which formed the basis of the production model. However, it did not reach mass production until seven years later.
The main goal of the project was to attract attention to the brand Nissan in North America, where crossovers were in great demand, and convertibles were considered a symbol of freedom and luxury. The company's marketers hoped that the unusual car would become a highlight in the lineup and attract new buyers. However, the reality turned out to be less rosy: during the three years of production (2011–2014), only about 11,000 copies — extremely little for a model of this class.
Interesting fact: Murano Cabriolet assembled exclusively at the factory in Kansas City (USA) and was officially supplied only to the American market. This model was not sold in Europe and Asia, which further narrowed the circle of potential buyers. Today, these cars have become an object of interest for collectors and rare car enthusiasts.
Design and exterior: what the Nissan Murano Cabriolet looks like
Nissan Murano Cabriolet inherited many features from the usual Murano second generation (Z51), but with major changes in body design. The main difference is soft folding roof, which transformed the crossover into a full-fledged convertible in 20 seconds. At the same time, engineers had to strengthen the body to maintain rigidity in the absence of a roof.
From a design point of view, Murano Cabriolet looks more massive and aggressive than classic convertibles. Its key features:
- 🔹 High ground clearance (180 mm) - like a full-fledged crossover, which is not typical for convertibles.
- 🔹 Short overhangs and a long wheelbase (2825 mm), which gives the car a dynamic look.
- 🔹 Characteristic radiator grille in style Nissan with chrome elements.
- 🔹 18" alloy wheels as standard (optional - 20-inch).
- 🔹 Two-tone body paint (optional), which emphasized the premium quality of the model.
However, not all design decisions were successful. For example, massive rear pillars and the high belt of the body created a “bathtub on wheels” effect, which not everyone liked. In addition, the soft top, although reliable, visually made the car less sporty compared to the hard tops of competitors like BMW X6 (which, by the way, was never a convertible).
- I really like it - unusual and memorable
- I like it, but there are some shortcomings
- Neutral - not my thing
- I don’t like it at all - it looks weird
Interior: spacious interior or cramped convertible?
Inside Nissan Murano Cabriolet combines the features of a crossover and a convertible, but with an emphasis on comfort rather than sportiness. The interior is made in a premium style using leather trim, wooden inserts (optional) and soft plastics. However, due to the body design, some compromises were inevitable.
Main interior features:
- 🪑 Front seats with electric drive, heating and ventilation (in top versions).
- 🧍 Rear seats designed for two passengers (unlike regular Murano, where three were placed).
- 📏 Trunk volume 300 liters - extremely low for a crossover, but typical for convertibles.
- 🎛️ Multimedia system with 7-inch screen, navigation and support
Bluetooth. - 🔊 Bose audio system with 9 speakers (optional), adapted for open top.
The main drawback of the interior is limited space for rear passengers. Due to the reinforced body structure and roof folding mechanism, the interior is narrower than a normal one. Murano. Adult passengers in the back row will feel cramped, especially on long trips. In addition, the high body belt and small windows create a “well” effect, which not everyone likes.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Murano Cabriolet On the aftermarket, check the condition of the soft top - it often suffers from leaks and wear. Pay special attention to the seals and the roof folding mechanism.
Technical specifications: what's under the hood of the Murano Cabriolet
Under the hood Nissan Murano Cabriolet a single engine was installed - 3.5 liter V6 VQ35DE 265 hp and a torque of 336 Nm. This motor is well known from other models Nissan And Infiniti and is famous for its reliability. However, in the case of Murano Cabriolet he worked in tandem with stepless variator CVT, which caused a lot of criticism.
Main technical parameters:
| Characteristics | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Engine | VQ35DE 3.5 V6, 265 hp |
| Gearbox | CVT (variator) |
| Drive | Full (AWD) or front (FWD) |
| Acceleration 0–100 km/h | 8.5 sec (front-wheel drive), 8.7 sec (all-wheel drive) |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (electronic limitation) |
| Fuel consumption (combined cycle) | 11.5–12.0 l/100 km |
Critics often criticized Murano Cabriolet for variator, which was not quite suitable for a car with sporting ambitions. Despite the smooth ride, CVT did not provide the dynamics that were expected from a convertible. In addition, four-wheel drive was an option, and the base version came with front-wheel drive, which seemed odd for a crossover.
On the other hand, VQ35DE - one of the most reliable engines Nissan, and with proper maintenance it can easily go 300,000+ km. The main thing is to follow changing the oil in the variator (every 60,000 km) and avoid overheating.
If you buy Murano Cabriolet with mileage, be sure to check the service history of the variator. Many owners ignore changing the oil CVT, which leads to expensive repairs.
Pros and cons of the Nissan Murano Cabriolet: is it worth buying?
Nissan Murano Cabriolet — a car for everyone, and it has both undeniable advantages and serious disadvantages. Let's figure out who it's suitable for and who should consider alternatives.
Pros:
- ✅ Uniqueness is the only serial convertible crossover in the world.
- ✅ Spacious lounge at the front — the comfort of the front seats is not inferior to classic crossovers.
- ✅ Reliable engine
VQ35DE- with proper maintenance, it lasts hundreds of thousands of kilometers. - ✅ Good sound insulation (for convertible) thanks to the reinforced body.
- ✅ High ground clearance — not afraid of bad roads (within reasonable limits).
Cons:
- ❌ Very small trunk (300 l) - even for a convertible this is not enough.
- ❌ Tight back row — adult passengers will be uncomfortable.
- ❌ CVT
CVT- not everyone likes its work, especially during active driving. - ❌ High fuel consumption (11–12 l/100 km) for a car of this class.
- ❌ Difficulties with spare parts — many details are unique to this model.
Who is it suitable for? Murano Cabriolet?
- 🚗 Rare car collectors - This is one of the most unique models Nissan.
- 🌞 For lovers of open tripswho want something unusual instead of a classic convertible.
- 🛣️ For those who value high visibility and a comfortable fit, but I’m not ready to put up with the cramped conditions of sports convertibles.
Who is it not suitable for?
- 👨👩👧👦 For families with children — the back row is too cramped.
- 🏁 For lovers of sports driving — the CVT and heavy body do not contribute to dynamics.
- 💰 For those looking for an economical car — fuel consumption and maintenance costs are above average.
☑️ What to check before buying a Murano Cabriolet
Secondary market prices: how much does a Nissan Murano Cabriolet cost today?
Due to its rarity Nissan Murano Cabriolet It is extremely rare on the secondary market, especially in good condition. In the US, where these cars were officially sold, prices range from $10,000 to $25,000 depending on mileage, condition and configuration. In Russia and Europe, such cars are very rare, and their cost may be higher due to import duties and logistics.
Factors influencing the price:
- 📉 Mileage — optimally up to 100,000 km, but many copies have already covered 150,000+ km.
- 🔧 Body and roof condition - Repairing a soft top is expensive.
- 🔋 Equipment - top versions with leather interior,
Boseand 20-inch wheels are more expensive. - 📄 Service history — the presence of receipts and records of oil changes in the variator significantly increases the cost.
When purchasing, it is worth considering that spare parts for Murano Cabriolet may be expensive and difficult to obtain. Many parts are unique to this model and must be ordered from the USA. In addition, not all services undertake the repair of such rare cars, so before purchasing it is worth checking whether there are specialists in your region who are familiar with this model.
⚠️ Attention: Upon registration Murano Cabriolet in Russia there may be difficulties with registration due to its unique design. Check in advance whether additional approval from the traffic police will be required.
Alternatives: which cars can replace the Murano Cabriolet
If you like the idea of an open-top crossover but... Nissan Murano Cabriolet seems too rare or expensive to maintain, alternatives may be considered. True, this model does not have complete analogues, but there are cars that combine the features of a crossover and a convertible.
Possible options:
- 🚘 Range Rover Evoque Convertible — a premium convertible based on a crossover, but with a hard folding roof. More modern and technologically advanced, but also much more expensive.
- 🚘 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet (or Eos) - not a crossover, but a practical convertible with a hardtop. Cheaper to maintain, but less spacious.
- 🚘 BMW X4 or X6 - not convertibles, but crossovers with a coupe-like body. More dynamic and premium, but without the possibility of an open top.
- 🚘 Jeep Wrangler (no roof) - if you need a real open-top SUV, but are willing to sacrifice comfort.
If uniqueness is important to you, then Murano Cabriolet remains a win-win option. No other car offers this combination of crossover and convertible. However, it's worth weighing the pros and cons before purchasing, especially if you plan to use the car as your primary vehicle.
The Nissan Murano Cabriolet is not so much a practical car as it is a stylish and rare vehicle for connoisseurs of unusual solutions. If you're looking for reliability and cost-effectiveness, it's best to consider alternatives.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Murano Cabriolet
How long does it take to fold the roof?
Soft top Nissan Murano Cabriolet folds behind 20 seconds and can be controlled either using a button on the center console or from the key fob. It is important that the car is stationary and the speed does not exceed 5 km/h.
Can the Murano Cabriolet be driven in winter?
Technically yes, but with caveats. All-wheel drive versions (AWD) are better adapted for snow, but soft top does not tolerate frost well - the rubber may crack. In addition, the variator CVT does not like prolonged warm-ups, so winter operation requires special attention.
What are the most common breakdowns of the Murano Cabriolet?
The most common problems:
- 🔧 Soft top leaks - Over time, the seals wear out.
- 🔧 CVT wear
CVTin case of untimely oil change. - 🔧 Electronics — sometimes sensors and sensors fail.
- 🔧 Suspension — due to the weight of the body, shock absorbers and struts wear out faster.
How much does it cost to service a Murano Cabriolet?
Maintenance costs more than regular Murano, due to the unique details. For example:
- 💰 Changing the oil in the variator: ~$200–$300.
- 💰 Soft top repair: from $1,500 (depending on damage).
- 💰 Electronics diagnostics: ~$100–$200.
It is recommended to look for services that specialize in Nissan or American cars.
Where can I buy spare parts for Murano Cabriolet?
Main sources:
- 🛒 Official dealers Nissan (but not everyone has spare parts for this model in stock).
- 🛒 American online stores (for example,
eBay,RockAuto). - 🛒 Disassembly in the USA (many copies have already been sent for disposal).
Some parts are interchangeable with regular Murano Z51, but the roof, body elements and some of the electronics are unique.