Crossover Nissan Murano has long gained popularity among lovers of spacious and comfortable cars. But what if you want more dynamics, sportiness and unique design? Then you should take a closer look at the version Nismo - a special modification developed by the division Nissan Motorsport (Nismo). This version combines the elegance of the original Murano and the aggressive, sporty character typically associated with the brand's racing cars.
In this article we will look at what Murano Nismo differs from the standard model, what technical improvements it has received, and how justified its purchase is for everyday use. You will learn about engine, suspension, design, and also about what unique interior and exterior details make this car special. If you're looking for a crossover that stands out on the road and delivers responsive handling, read on.
How is the Nissan Murano Nismo different from the standard version?
The first thing that catches your eye when looking at Murano Nismo - this is his aggressive appearance. Nismo designers redesigned the front bumper, adding large air intakes, red accents and a unique grille. The rear bumper also received sporty elements, and the exhaust system now has double pipes with chrome finish. Wheels 19 or 20 inches (depending on the year of manufacture) complete the image.
But the changes affected not only the exterior. Under the hood Murano Nismo the same one is hiding 3.5 liter V6, as in the basic version, but with re-flashed control system, which gives an increase in power up to 280–300 hp (depending on the market). The suspension has become stiffer and the steering sharper. This is not a racing car, but the difference in behavior on the road is noticeable.
- 🔥 Engine: 3.5 V6 with modified firmware (+20–30 hp)
- 🚗 Suspension: sports tuning of shock absorbers and springs
- 🎨 Design: unique bumpers, grille, wheels and red accents
- 🔊 Exhaust: system with improved sound and double pipes
However, not everything is so rosy. Some owners note that Murano Nismo loses comfort due to the stiff suspension, and fuel consumption increases by 1–1.5 l/100 km compared to the basic version. This is a price for sporty character, and it should be taken into account when choosing.
- Design and Exterior
- Specifications
- Price and options
- Owner reviews
- Other
Technical characteristics: engine, transmission, suspension
With my heart Nissan Murano Nismo remains time-tested petrol engine VQ35DE volume 3.5 liters. In the standard version it gives 260 hp, but thanks to modifications, Nismo engineers were able to squeeze additional 20–40 hp (depending on year and market). The maximum torque reaches 350 Nm, which allows the crossover to accelerate to 100 km/h for 6.5–7.2 seconds.
Transmission - CVT Xtronic with simulated steps, which makes acceleration more dynamic. In mode Sport the box keeps the speed closer to the red zone, and in mode Eco - tries to save fuel. Four-wheel drive Intelligent AWD distributes traction between axles depending on conditions, but in Nismo its settings have been slightly changed for better handling.
| Parameter | Nissan Murano (base) | Nissan Murano Nismo |
|---|---|---|
| Power, hp | 260 | 280–300 |
| Torque, Nm | 330 | 350 |
| Acceleration 0–100 km/h, s | 7.5–8.0 | 6.5–7.2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined), l/100 km | 10.5–11.0 | 11.5–12.5 |
| Suspension | Soft, comfortable | Tough, athletic |
Suspension in Murano Nismo received reinforced shock absorbers, stiffer springs and anti-roll bars. This improved handling at high speeds and in corners, but made the car less comfortable on bad roads. The steering has become sharper and the gas pedal more responsive, which appeals to fans of active driving.
⚠️ Attention: When buying used Murano Nismo Be sure to check the condition of the suspension. Hard settings wear out shock absorbers and silent blocks faster, especially if the previous owner preferred an aggressive driving style.
Interior: sporty style and unique details
Inside Nissan Murano Nismo The influence of the racing division is also felt. The seats are upholstered leather with red stitching and Nismo logos, and the steering wheel has perforations and a thicker rim for better grip. The dashboard has been expanded sports scales with red lights, and the pedals are now aluminum - like in real racing cars.
The multimedia system remains the same as in the basic version, but in Nismo added unique screensavers and themes. Also present in some trim levels Bose audio system with 11 speakers, which perfectly transmits bass even at high speeds. However, the interior space remains the same - spacious and comfortable for five passengers.
- 🪑 Seats: leather + alcantara with red stitching and Nismo logo
- 🎛️ Steering wheel: perforated, with thickened rim and steering wheel paddle shifters (optional)
- 🔴 Dashboard: sports scales with red backlight
- 🔊 Audio system: Bose with 11 speakers (top trims)
Some owners call one of the main disadvantages of the interior excess plastic on the secondary market. Over time, it may squeak, especially if the car has been used in a hot climate. It's also worth noting that the rear row of seats is not adjustable, which may be uncomfortable for tall passengers.
If you're buying a used Murano Nismo, pay attention to the condition of the leather seat trim. Red stitching often fades in the sun, and the leather can crack if not properly cared for.
Prices for new and used Nissan Murano Nismo: is it worth overpaying?
New Nissan Murano Nismo It is not officially sold on the Russian market, but it can be purchased through parallel imports or on the secondary market. In the USA and Japan, the price of the new model starts from $45 000–$50 000what's on $5 000–$7 000 more expensive than the basic version. On the Russian secondary market, prices vary from 3.5 to 5 million rubles depending on year, mileage and condition.
Is it worth paying extra for Nismo? If you care unique design, improved dynamics and sporty interior - yes. But if you are just looking for a reliable and comfortable crossover, then the standard Murano may be a more rational choice. The difference in power is not that great, and the stiff suspension and increased fuel consumption can disappoint in everyday use.
| Year of manufacture | Mileage, thousand km | Price, million rubles (Russia, 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| 2018–2019 | 50–80 | 3.5–4.0 |
| 2020–2021 | 30–60 | 4.0–4.8 |
| 2022–2023 | 10–30 | 4.8–5.5 |
⚠️ Attention: When buying used Murano Nismo through parallel imports, make sure that the car has cleared customs and has all the necessary documents. Otherwise, problems with registration may arise.
Pros and cons of the Nissan Murano Nismo: an honest review
Nissan Murano Nismo — a car with a bright character, but it is not suitable for everyone. Let's look at its main advantages and disadvantages to make it easier for you to make a choice.
Pros:
- 🚀 Unique Design: stands out from other crossovers
- 🏁 Sports dynamics: better acceleration, sharper steering, stiffer suspension
- 🎖️ Exclusivity: rarely seen on roads
- 🛋️ Spacious interior: comfortable for five passengers
- 🔧 Reliable engine: VQ35DE is known for its durability
Cons:
- 💰 High price: 15–20% more expensive than the basic version
- ⛽ Increased fuel consumption: up to 12.5 l/100 km in the city
- 🛣️ Hard suspension: not everyone will like it on bad roads
- 🔄 Difficulties with spare parts: some Nismo parts have to be ordered from abroad
- 📉 Low liquidity: sell used Murano Nismo more difficult than the standard version
If you are willing to put up with these shortcomings for the sake of a unique style and sporty character - Murano Nismo will be an excellent choice. But if comfort and efficiency come first for you, it’s better to take a closer look at the standard version or alternatives like Toyota Highlander or Hyundai Santa Fe.
The Nissan Murano Nismo is less about speed and more about style and exclusivity. It is suitable for those who want to stand out and are willing to pay a premium for it.
Alternatives to Nissan Murano Nismo: what to choose?
If Murano Nismo If you liked it, but you doubt the advisability of purchasing, consider alternatives. There are several sport-oriented crossovers in this segment that can offer a similar driving experience.
- 🏎️ Infiniti QX60 Sport: same VQ35DE engine, but with more premium trim and softer suspension. The price is higher, but the comfort is better.
- 🔥 Mazda CX-9 Signature: stylish design, 2.5T turbo engine (250 hp), excellent handling. Less exclusive, but more practical.
- 💨 Ford Edge ST: 2.7 EcoBoost (335 hp), sports suspension, aggressive exterior. More powerful, but less reliable.
- 🏁 Toyota Highlander Hybrid: if efficiency is important to you, a hybrid version with a consumption of 6–7 l/100 km.
Each of these crossovers has its own pros and cons. For example, Infiniti QX60 offers more luxury, but loses in dynamics, and Ford Edge ST more powerful, but its engine requires more careful maintenance. If reliability is important to you, then Toyota Highlander or Mazda CX-9 may become a more rational choice.
Comparison of Murano Nismo and Infiniti QX60 Sport
Nissan Murano Nismo And Infiniti QX60 Sport built on the same platform and equipped with the same VQ35DE engine. However QX60 offers more premium interior trim, a softer suspension and better sound insulation. But Murano Nismo benefits from exclusivity of design and is slightly cheaper to maintain. If you need a comfortable family crossover, take it Infiniti. If you want a sporty character and a unique style - Nismo.
Owner reviews: real operating experience
To form an objective opinion about Nissan Murano Nismo, it’s worth listening to the reviews of real owners. Most of them note that the car looks amazing and attracts attention on the road. Also praised acceleration dynamics And responsive steering. However, there are also criticisms.
Many people complain about rigid suspension, which causes discomfort on Russian roads. Also often mentioned increased fuel consumption - in the city it can reach 13–14 l/100 km, which is quite a lot for a crossover. Some owners have encountered electronics problems, especially in cars with mileage of more than 100 thousand km.
👨 Alexey, Moscow, Murano Nismo 2019:
“I bought it two years ago and have never regretted it. The car looks like a sports car, and not like a regular crossover. The dynamics are excellent, especially in Sport mode. But the suspension is really stiff - my wife sometimes swears. Consumption on the highway is 9-10 liters, in the city up to 13 liters. Spare parts have to be ordered from the USA, but they rarely break.”
👨 Dmitry, Ekaterinburg, Murano Nismo 2017:
“The design is super, but after 80 thousand km the silent blocks began to creak and the shock absorbers began to knock. I had to change it - it turned out to be expensive. I also didn’t like that in the cold the variator sometimes stalls when warming up. Otherwise, I’m happy with the car, but I’ll choose the next one with an automatic transmission.”
If you are considering Murano Nismo like an everyday car, be prepared for increased fuel and maintenance costs. What you get is a car that stands out on the road and is fun to drive.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Murano Nismo
🔧 What engine is in the Nissan Murano Nismo?
B Murano Nismo is installed 3.5 liter petrol V6 (VQ35DE) with modified firmware, outstanding 280–300 hp (depending on the market). This engine is known for its reliability, but requires high-quality oil and timely maintenance.
💨 How much does Murano Nismo spend in the city?
Fuel consumption in the urban cycle is 11.5–13.5 l/100 km, depending on driving style. On the highway this figure drops to 8.5–10 l/100 km. For comparison: standard Murano spends on 1–1.5 l less.
🔄 Is it possible to install components from a regular Murano on Murano Nismo?
Yes, most parts (for example, headlights, bumpers, interior elements) are interchangeable. However, some components such as sports suspension, exhaust system and exterior elements with Nismo logos, are unique and may cost more.
💰 How much does Murano Nismo service cost?
Service Murano Nismo costs about 15–20% more expensive than the standard version. This is due to the need to use original spare parts (especially for the suspension and exhaust system). The average cost of maintenance is 20–30 thousand rubles, and replacing shock absorbers can lead to 80–100 thousand rubles per set.
🚗 Is Murano Nismo suitable for a family?
Yes, Murano Nismo remains a full-fledged 5-seater crossover with a spacious interior and a large trunk (1100 l). However, the firm suspension can be uncomfortable on long trips, especially if the roads are less than ideal. For a family with children, it is better to consider the standard version or alternatives like Toyota Highlander.