In the world of Japanese crossovers Nissan Murano The third generation (Z50 body) occupies a special place, offering a unique combination of futuristic design and business class comfort. This car replaces its angular predecessor, transforming it into a smooth, streamlined shape that is difficult to confuse with other models on the road. For many buyers, appearance is the deciding factor, but behind the glossy shell lies serious engineering work.
When choosing crossover with mileage It is important to understand that the Murano Z50 is not just a car for moving from point A to point B. It is a device focused on maximum comfort for the driver and passengers, often competing with more expensive European counterparts. However, like any car with complex electronics and a specific transmission, it requires careful attention to maintenance and operation.
In this review, we will analyze in detail the technical features, strengths and weaknesses of the model, and also give practical advice on choosing a copy on the secondary market. If you are planning a purchase, you need to know about the nuances of the CVT and suspension in order to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Design and ergonomics: Futurism in metal
Appearance Nissan Murano Z50 was developed under the direction of Carlos Ghosn, who wanted to create a car that looked like a work of art. The lines of the body resemble folds of fabric or drops of water, which creates the effect of floating above the road. At the front, the car looks aggressive thanks to narrow headlights and a massive grille, and at the rear, thanks to a thin LED strip that unites the lights.
Inside the cabin there is an atmosphere of premium luxury. The seats, called "Zero Gravity", are designed taking into account NASA recommendations to reduce stress on the spine during long trips. Finishing materials, including soft plastic and genuine leather, are selected so that the tactile sensations correspond to the class of the car.
However, ergonomics has its own nuances. The instrument panel can feel cluttered with buttons, and the first-generation infotainment system is sometimes laggy. You'll need to get used to the layout of the controls, especially if you're coming from more conservative models.
- Stunning appearance with floating roof thanks to black pillars
- High driving position provides excellent visibility of the road
- Wide choice of colors, including metallic and pearl
It's worth noting that the rear row of seats has limited legroom compared to competitors, but there is excellent sound insulation. When cruising on the highway, wind and tire noise are minimal, creating a sense of privacy.
⚠️ Warning: Due to the panoramic roof, the rear seat may become hot in the summer if you do not use sunblinds, which are often an option rather than standard equipment.
Engines and transmission: The heart of the crossover
Under the hood of most versions Nissan Murano Z50 for the Russian market, a reliable 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine of the VQ35DE series is installed. This motor has already established itself as one of the most successful units in history. automotive industry. It produces about 249 horsepower, providing dynamic acceleration and confident traction at any speed.
The operation of the engine is accompanied by a pleasant, deep sound that does not get boring. Fuel consumption, of course, is high: in the urban cycle it can reach 15-17 liters, but on the highway it drops to 10-11 liters. For such a heavy car, this is a normal indicator, which is compensated by power.
The transmission is a continuously variable CVT (Jatco JF015E or JF016E), which is perfectly matched to the engine. It ensures a smooth ride, eliminating jerks when changing gears. However, it is this element that often becomes a stumbling block when buying a used car.
- The VQ35DE engine requires high-quality oil and regular replacement every 5-7 thousand km
- The variator is afraid of overheating and sudden starts from traffic lights
- AWD system engages automatically when wheels slip
If you're considering a purchase, be sure to check the transmission's service history. The oil change in the variator must be carried out strictly every 40-50 thousand kilometers, otherwise the service life of the box may be halved. Ignoring this rule often leads to failure of the valve body or cones.
The engine is quite durable, but has a tendency to burn oil on long runs (more than 150 thousand km) due to the occurrence of rings. It is also worth monitoring the condition of the ignition system and coils, which may require replacement.
⚠️ Attention: If you notice vibrations at idle or knocking in the engine, you should immediately carry out diagnostics, as this may indicate problems with the timing chain mounts or chain.
- V6 Petrol
- Turbodiesel
- Hybrid
- Electro
Chassis and handling
Suspension Nissan Murano Z50 designed exclusively for comfort. The front independent MacPherson-type suspension and multi-link rear suspension effectively absorb all unevenness of the road surface. You will feel how small pebbles and asphalt joints simply disappear under the wheels without being transferred to the body.
When cornering, the crossover rolls, which is typical for cars with a high seating position and soft settings. The steering feel is relaxed rather than sporty. The steering wheel has a light power steering, which is convenient in traffic jams, but at high speed it may seem too “wobbly”.
The rear suspension may be sensitive to overloads. If you plan to frequently drive with a full cabin of passengers and a trunk, it is worth considering that the springs may sag. Shock absorbers at high mileage often require replacement as they lose their properties.
☑️ Checking the chassis before purchasing
- Soft suspension tuning is ideal for city roads and poor asphalt
- Lack of harshness during dynamic driving
- Noise insulation of wheel arches requires additional improvement on older examples
The all-wheel drive system works effectively in snow and wet grass, but is not designed for serious off-road use. This is a city SUV that feels confident on a dirt road, but not in a swamp.
Before a long trip on bad roads, check the condition of the CV joint boots, as their damage can lead to rapid failure of the drive.
Electronics and multimedia
Electronic filling Nissan Murano Z50 includes many safety and comfort systems. Depending on the trim level, you can find surround-view cameras, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring and even a collision avoidance system. The multimedia interface is intuitive, although it looks a little dated by modern standards.
The touchscreen responds to touch, but sometimes there is a delay. The navigation system works correctly, but the databases require regular updating. Connecting a smartphone via Bluetooth or USB allows you to use navigators and music, which is very convenient.
However, electronics are not without their drawbacks. Sometimes parking sensors can give false alarms, and the rear view camera has poor image quality at night. It is also worth paying attention to the operation of the climate control, which can be noisy at high speeds.
What to do if the screen is frozen?
If your multimedia system stops responding, try rebooting it by pressing and holding the power button for 10-15 seconds until the screen goes blank and the Nissan logo appears.
- The on-board computer provides detailed information about fuel consumption and driving style
- Voice control only works with basic commands
- Bose system provides excellent sound quality when set up correctly
When purchasing a used car, be sure to check the functionality of all electronic systems, as repairing sensors and control units can be expensive.
Reliability and typical problems
Overall, Nissan Murano Z50 It is considered a reliable car, but there are a number of “sores” that you need to know. The main problem is the variator. If used incorrectly or lack of maintenance, it can fail even after a mileage of up to 100 thousand kilometers. Steering rack wear is also common, which manifests itself as a knocking sound when driving over uneven surfaces.
In the cooling system, problems sometimes arise with the pump and thermostat. Coolant may leak through leaking connections. The V6 engine is prone to carbon deposits on the intake valves, which can affect power and fuel economy over time.
Body parts are quite resistant to corrosion, but the paint on the roof may fade over time. It is also worth checking the condition of the sills and arches, especially if the car was operated in regions with reagents.
The following table will help you navigate the main nodes and their resources:
| Unit | Typical resource | Main problems |
|---|---|---|
| Engine VQ35DE | 300+ thousand km | Maslozhor, chain stretching |
| CVT | 150-200 thousand km | Overheating, wear of cones |
| Steering rack | 100-150 thousand km | Knock, leaks |
| Shock absorbers | 80-100 thousand km | Loss of elasticity, leakage |
If you plan to use the car for a long time, budget for regular maintenance and possible suspension repairs. This is not a case where you can skimp on maintenance.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to repair the variator using the “trial and error” method in garages. Use only specialized services with equipment for diagnosing the valve body and cones.
Regularly changing the oil in the engine and variator is the key to the long life of the Nissan Murano Z50, allowing you to avoid major repairs at a mileage of up to 200 thousand kilometers.
Cost of Ownership and Aftermarket Selection
Upon purchase Nissan Murano Z50 In the secondary market, it is important to pay attention to the service history. Cars with a full service record are more expensive, but it's worth it. Avoid examples with broken VIN numbers or signs of major body repairs, as this can hide serious defects.
Maintenance costs are comparable to other Japanese crossovers in this class. Spare parts are available, but original components can be expensive. Analogues from Chinese or Korean brands are often not enough for high-quality restoration.
Insurance and taxes vary based on engine power. For 249 hp the tax will be quite high, which must be taken into account when calculating the budget. Fuel consumption is also a significant expense item, especially in city conditions.
- Check the legal purity of the car through databases
- Pay attention to the condition of tires and wheels
- Test the operation of all electronic systems before purchasing
In conclusion, Nissan Murano Z50 is an excellent choice for those who value comfort, style and dynamics. With proper care, this car will become a faithful companion for many years, delighting you with a smooth ride and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What mileage of the variator is considered critical?
A mileage of more than 150-180 thousand kilometers is considered critical in the absence of regular oil changes. If the oil has not been changed, the service life may be reduced to 100 thousand.
Is the Murano Z50 suitable for winter driving?
Yes, thanks to all-wheel drive and good climate preparation, the car feels confident on snow and ice. However, winter tires are required.
What is the difference between SE and Platinum trim?
The Platinum package features a panoramic roof, higher quality leather, an all-round visibility system and an expanded set of safety systems.
Is it possible to use non-original oil in the engine?
Yes, but the oil must meet Nissan specifications (5W-30 or 0W-20) and have API SN approvals or higher. It is better to choose proven brands.
How often should the timing belt be changed?
The VQ35DE engine uses a timing chain that is designed to last a lifetime, but it is recommended to check it after 200 thousand kilometers for stretching.