Nissan Murano Z52 is a crossover that has become a legend thanks to its unique design, spacious interior and proven reliability. Produced from 2014 to 2022, it has gained popularity both among family drivers and among lovers of comfortable trips over long distances. But before buying, you should understand its features in order to avoid common mistakes and maximize the potential of the car.
In this article we will look in detail technical specifications, weak points And hidden possibilities Murano Z52, and also give practical recommendations for operation. We will pay special attention unique Intelligent AWD all-wheel drive system, which makes this crossover one of the most passable in its class. If you are planning a purchase or are already an owner, here you will find answers to key questions.
Technical characteristics of Nissan Murano Z52: engine, transmission, suspension
With my heart Nissan Murano Z52 is 3.5 liter VQ35DE petrol engine power 260 hp at 6000 rpm. This motor is known for its reliability and unpretentiousness, but it has a number of nuances that are worth knowing about. For example, it is sensitive to the quality of the oil - it is recommended to use only synthetics with a viscosity 5W-30 or 5W-40 from trusted brands.
Gearbox - Xtronic continuously variable transmission, which, when paired with an engine, provides smooth acceleration and economical fuel consumption (approx. 9.5 l/100 km in a mixed cycle). However, the variator requires regular maintenance: changing the oil every 60,000 km - a prerequisite for durability. Neglecting this rule often leads to jerking and premature wear.
- 🔧 Engine: VQ35DE, 3.5 l, 260 hp, 336 Nm
- ⚙️ Transmission: variator Xtronic with manual mode
- 🚗 Drive: Intelligent AWD (all-wheel drive)
- 🛣️ Suspension: independent McPherson front, multi-link rear
Suspension Murano Z52 tuned for comfort while still maintaining good handling. The multi-link rear suspension provides excellent directional stability at high speeds, and the front McPherson effectively absorbs road unevenness. However, after 100,000 km mileage, it is worth checking the condition of silent blocks and shock absorbers - they often become a source of extraneous noise.
- Automatic transmission
- CVT
- Robotic box
- Mechanics
Intelligent AWD system: how it works and when it turns on
One of the key features Nissan Murano Z52 is a system Intelligent AWD, which automatically distributes torque between the axles depending on road conditions. In normal mode, the car is front-wheel drive, but when slipping or on a slippery surface, the system engages the rear axle, providing better maneuverability.
Work algorithm Intelligent AWD takes into account several parameters:
- Wheel rotation speed (difference more than
50 rpmactivates the rear axle connection). - Steering angle (during sharp maneuvers, the system distributes torque to improve handling).
- Throttle position (when accelerating hard, the rear axle is engaged in advance).
It is important to understand that Intelligent AWD - this is not permanent all-wheel drive, but a system with automatic connection. This means that under normal conditions (dry asphalt, flat road) the rear axle is not engaged, which has a positive effect on fuel consumption. However, in difficult conditions (deep snow, off-road), the system may not cope as effectively as a full-fledged 4WD with differential lock.
How to force all-wheel drive on Murano Z52?
B Nissan Murano Z52 There is no button for forced all-wheel drive locking. System Intelligent AWD works exclusively in automatic mode. However, when driving off-road, you can simulate locking by gently pressing the gas pedal and avoiding sharp turns of the steering wheel - this will force the system to keep the rear axle connected longer.
Weaknesses and typical problems of the Nissan Murano Z52
Despite the overall reliability, Murano Z52 has several vulnerabilities, which are worth knowing before purchasing. One of them is CVT Xtronic. If you do not change the oil on time (the recommended interval is 60,000 km) there may be jerks during acceleration, and in advanced cases, complete failure of the transmission. The cost of repairing a variator starts from 150,000 rubles, so it’s not worth saving on maintenance.
Other common problems:
- 🔋 Battery: weak standard battery often discharges in frosts below
-20°C. It is recommended to replace it with a more capacious one (for example,75 Ahinstead of regular ones60 Ah). - 💡 Headlights: Over time, they become cloudy and lose light transmittance. The solution is polishing or replacing with LED lamps (but requires modification of the ignition unit).
- 🛑 Brake pads: The front pads wear out faster than the rear ones (on average after
30,000–40,000 km). When replacing, it is recommended to use original spare parts or analogues from Brembo. - 🌡️ Cooling system: radiator or pipe leaks are a common problem after
100,000 km. Check the antifreeze level regularly.
⚠️ Attention: When buying used Murano Z52 Be sure to check the service history of the CVT. If the previous owner did not change the oil in the variator or used cheap analogues, there is a high risk of a quick repair. The best option is a car with a full maintenance history from an official dealer.
| Knot | Typical problem | Manifestation period | Repair cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| CVT Xtronic | Jerks, belt wear | 100,000–150,000 km | from 150,000 ₽ |
| Suspension (silent blocks, shock absorbers) | Knocking, backlash | 80,000–120,000 km | from 50,000 ₽ |
| Brake system | Wear of pads, discs | 30,000–50,000 km | from 20,000 ₽ |
| Electronics (sensors, blocks) | System malfunctions Intelligent AWD | 120,000+ km | from 30,000 ₽ |
Options and options: what to choose for comfortable use
Nissan Murano Z52 was offered in several trim levels, but the most common on the Russian market SE, SV And SL. Basic version SE includes climate control, leather interior and system NissanConnect with an 8-inch screen, but lacks some options that significantly improve comfort.
The optimal choice for most buyers is the package SLwhich adds:
- 🎵 Premium audio system Bose with 11 speakers.
- 🚗 Adaptive cruise control Intelligent Cruise Control.
- 👁️ All-round viewing system Around View Monitor (indispensable when parking).
- 🪑 Ventilation and heating of the front seats.
If your budget allows, it's worth considering the top version Platinum, which is additionally equipped panoramic roof, collision avoidance system And heated leather steering wheel. However, the price difference between SL And Platinum can reach 500,000–700,000 rubles, which is not always justified.
When choosing a used one Murano Z52 pay attention to the availability of the system Around View Monitor. It greatly simplifies parking and maneuvering in tight yards, where the size of a crossover can become a problem.
Maintenance and consumables: what and when to change
Maintenance schedule Nissan Murano Z52 provides for changing oil and filters every 15,000 km or once a year. However, for the variator and some other components the intervals are different. Below are the key maintenance points:
- 🛢️ Engine oil: every
15,000 km(synthetic5W-30or5W-40). - ⚙️ CVT oil: every
60,000 km(original liquid NS-3). - 🔥 Spark plugs: every
100,000 km(original NGK or Denso). - 🔧 Brake fluid: every
40,000 kmor once every 2 years. - 🌀 Air and cabin filters: every
30,000 km.
Particular attention should be paid CVT fluids. Using non-original oils or exceeding the replacement interval leads to premature wear of the belt and cones. Original liquid Nissan NS-3 costs about 5,000 rubles for 4 liters, but you should not save on this.
☑️ Preparation for changing the oil in the Murano Z52 variator
⚠️ Attention: When changing the oil in the variator Murano Z52 It is necessary to drain the liquid not only from the sump, but also from the cooling radiator. Otherwise about30% old oilwill remain in the system, which will negate the effect of the replacement. A complete replacement will require approximately8 litersliquids.
Tuning and improvements: what can be improved in the Murano Z52
Nissan Murano Z52 is not the most popular car for deep tuning, but there are several modifications that can significantly improve its performance. The most popular modifications:
- Installation of LED optics. Replacing standard halogen headlights with LED modules improves road illumination and gives the car a modern look. It is important to choose certified lamps with the correct color temperature (
4300–5000K). - Multimedia system update. Regular NissanConnect is morally outdated, but it can be replaced with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay using aftermarket solutions (for example, radio Pioneer or Alpine).
- Installing crankcase and transmission protection. For those who often drive off-road, it is useful to install metal protection, since the standard plastic boot does not provide sufficient protection.
- Suspension modernization. Replacing standard shock absorbers with gas-oil ones (for example, KYB or Bilstein) improves handling and comfort, especially on rough roads.
If you are planning to increase engine power, it is worth considering chip tuning. ECU firmware can add up to 20–30 hp, but it is important to contact trusted specialists, since unqualified tuning can reduce the life of the variator.
The best improvements for Murano Z52 are those that improve comfort and safety, not power. The CVT and engine of this crossover are not designed for extreme loads, so deep tuning can lead to premature wear.
Comparison with competitors: which is better - Murano Z52, Toyota Highlander or Hyundai Santa Fe
Nissan Murano Z52 competes with models such as Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Santa Fe And Ford Edge. Each of these crossovers has its own strengths and weaknesses. Below is a comparison by key parameters:
| Parameter | Nissan Murano Z52 | Toyota Highlander | Hyundai Santa Fe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5 l, 260 hp, CVT | 3.5 l, 295 hp, automatic transmission | 2.2 l diesel, 200 hp, automatic transmission |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.5 l/100 km | 10.2 l/100 km | 7.8 l/100 km (diesel) |
| Patency | Intelligent AWD | AWD with lock | HTRAC (Hands-On All-Wheel Drive) |
| Used price (2018, 80,000 km) | from 2.2 million ₽ | from 2.5 million ₽ | from 1.9 million ₽ |
Murano Z52 outperforms competitors in suspension comfort And spaciousness of the cabin, but loses Toyota Highlander in terms of power and transmission reliability. Hyundai Santa Fe cheaper to maintain, especially in the diesel version, but inferior in dynamics and prestige.
If you care reliability And cross-country ability, it's worth taking a closer look at Highlander. If the priority is comfort And design, then Murano Z52 will be the best choice. For those who are looking for an economical option with good equipment, it is suitable Santa Fe.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Murano Z52
Can you tow a trailer with the Murano Z52?
Yes, Nissan Murano Z52 approved for towing trailers weighing up to 907 kg (without brakes) or 1,588 kg (with brakes). However, it is important to consider that the variator does not like prolonged high loads. When towing heavy trailers, we recommend:
- Use mode
Manualto limit gear ratios. - Monitor the temperature of the variator (if it overheats, emergency mode may trigger).
- Check the oil level in the variator after long trips with a load.
What kind of gasoline should I put in the Murano Z52?
The manufacturer recommends using gasoline with an octane rating of at least 95. In Russian conditions, the optimal choice is AI-95 or AI-98 from trusted networks (for example, Lukoil, Gazpromneft). Usage AI-92 may lead to detonation and shorten engine life.
If you are refueling AI-98, you can expect a slight increase in power (up to 5–7 hp), but fuel consumption will increase slightly.
How long does the CVT last on a Murano Z52?
CVT resource Xtronic in Murano Z52 with proper maintenance is 200,000–250,000 km. However, this is only possible if the following conditions are met:
- Oil change every
60,000 km(use only Nissan NS-3). - Avoiding sudden starts and towing heavy loads.
- Warming up the variator in the cold season (the first 5–10 minutes of driving without sudden acceleration).
If these rules are violated, the resource may be reduced to 100,000–150,000 km.
How to disable Start/Stop system on Murano Z52?
System Start/Stop in Murano Z52 does not have a separate shutdown button, but it can be deactivated as follows:
- When starting the engine, immediately press and hold the button
OFFon the climate control panel. - The system will be disabled until the next ignition cycle.
Permanent shutdown requires flashing the ECU, which may void the warranty (if it is still valid).
What tires are best for the Murano Z52?
Optimal tire sizes for Murano Z52 — 235/65 R18 or 235/55 R20 (depending on the configuration). Recommended models:
- 🌨️ Winter: Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3, Michelin X-Ice North 4.
- ☀️ Summer: Continental ContiCrossContact LX2, Pirelli Scorpion Verde.
- 🌧️ All-season: Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 (suitable for mild climates).
Important: when installing tires with a diameter R20 comfort may deteriorate slightly (suspension stiffness will increase).