Nissan Murano Z51: Standard of comfort or relic of the past?

It's important to note that rear seat space is quite spacious, but the headroom may feel a little lower due to the sloping roofline. Access to the cabin is convenient thanks to the wide door opening, and the steering wheel is adjustable not only in height, but also in reach, which allows any driver to find the ideal fit.

• 🚗 The instrument panel is equipped with large dials with bright backlight, readable even on a sunny day.
• 🎵 The 11-speaker Bose multimedia system provides studio-quality sound even at high speeds.
• ❄️ Dual-zone climate control, with the ability to adjust the temperature for the driver and passenger separately.

⚠️ Attention: The build quality of the plastic in the door panels and center console may decrease over time, and the elements may begin to creak on uneven surfaces. It is recommended to immediately check for any play during a test drive.

Powertrains and transmission

The heart of most versions Murano Z51 is a naturally aspirated petrol engine VR35DE volume 3.5 liters. This power unit develops a power of about 270-280 horsepower, depending on the market and year of manufacture. The engine has a high compression ratio and a reliable design, although it requires regular oil changes to prevent wear.

The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (variator) CVT Jatco Model JF011E. This is a key design element that determines the vehicle's movement pattern. The CVT provides smooth acceleration without jerking, but does not like high dynamic loads and sudden starts from traffic lights.

All-wheel drive system ALL MODE 4x4-i automatically redistributes torque between axles depending on road conditions. In normal mode, most of the power goes to the front axle, and when slipping, the rear axle is connected almost instantly. This allows you to feel confident on snow or wet asphalt, but you should not perceive this car as an SUV.

• 🔧 The VR35DE engine requires the use of high-quality gasoline not lower than AI-95 to prevent detonation.
• ⚙️ The variator is sensitive to overheating, so in traffic jams it is recommended to periodically turn off the Drive mode if the wait is prolonged.
• ❄️ An engine preheater significantly extends the life of the engine in winter, especially in harsh climates.

Many owners encounter CVT problems after driving more than 150,000 km. The main reasons for failure are overheating, the use of low-quality fluid and untimely oil changes. If you hear a hum or feel vibrations when accelerating, this is a serious reason for diagnosis.

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a used car, be sure to check the service history of the variator. Failure to change the fluid every 40-50 thousand km is a direct path to expensive repairs.

Chassis and handling

Suspension Murano Z51 designed exclusively for comfort. The front McPherson strut and multi-link rear suspension absorb bumps well, but can still “float” at high speeds. The steering has a variable ratio, which makes maneuvering in the city easier, but makes steering on the highway less informative.

The crossover has significant weight, which affects its behavior in corners. Despite the presence of anti-roll bars, body roll during sharp maneuvers is quite noticeable. This is not a sports car, and you should not try to corner at high speed in this car - this can lead to loss of control.

The braking system is equipped with ventilated discs at the front and discs at the rear (in most trim levels). The brakes are effective, but require periodic checking of the condition of the calipers, which can become sour due to dirt and moisture. It is also worth paying attention to the condition of the brake pads, as wear may be uneven.

• 🛣️ Tires of size 235/65 R17 or 235/60 R18 provide good grip, but you should not skimp on their quality.
• 🌧️ In rainy weather, the crossover requires caution due to the heavy weight and inertia when braking.
• 🔩 Regularly checking the silent blocks of the levers will help maintain a smooth ride and avoid knocking in the suspension.

If you plan to operate the car in off-road conditions, remember that the ground clearance Murano Z51 is about 200 mm. This is enough for light soil and snow drifts, but the car is not intended for serious off-road use due to low overhangs and complex suspension design.

Technical characteristics and equipment

Despite the age of the model, Nissan Murano Z51 offers an impressive list of options even on base trims. The car is equipped with a keyless entry system and engine start with a Start/Stop button. The driver and front passenger seats are electrically adjustable with a memory function.

Safety is ensured by the presence of six airbags, including side and curtain airbags, as well as a stabilization system VDC and traction control system TCS. In richer versions, all-round cameras, parking sensors and adaptive cruise control are available. These systems make driving in the city and on the highway much safer.

The dimensions of the car allow it to be quite roomy, but at the same time maneuverable. The body length is 4850 mm, width is 1935 mm, and the wheelbase is 2825 mm. The dimensions provide good visibility from the cabin, and large windows minimize blind spots, although the pillars can still create some obstruction.

Fuel consumption Murano Z51 is one of its disadvantages. In the city it easily reaches 15-17 liters per 100 km, especially in traffic jams. On the highway at a speed of 100-110 km/h, consumption drops to 9-10 liters. This should be taken into account when planning your operating budget, especially in conditions of high fuel prices.

Reliability and typical problems

Like any car, Murano Z51 has its own weaknesses that a potential buyer needs to know about. The main problem is the variator, which can fail if overheated or insufficiently maintained. Electrical problems are also common: throttle position sensors or control modules may fail.

The weak link in the suspension is the stabilizer struts and the silent blocks of the front control arms, which require replacement every 60-80 thousand km. Rear shock absorbers may also require replacement early, especially if the vehicle has been driven in harsh conditions. The VR35DE engine is generally reliable, but can suffer from problems with the variable valve timing system (CVTCS).

Body corrosion is another factor that cannot be ignored. Despite galvanization, in regions with aggressive chemical treatment of roads, pockets of rust may appear on arches, sills and doors. Regular inspection and timely anti-corrosion treatment will help extend the life of the body.

• 💧 Checking the cooling system is critically important, since overheating of the variator is often caused by contamination of the radiator.
• 🔋 The battery may discharge faster due to the large amount of electrical equipment, especially during the cold season.
• 🔧 Timely replacement of spark plugs and coils will help avoid misfires and loss of engine power.

⚠️ Attention: If during acceleration you hear a characteristic “squeal” or feel jerking, stop driving immediately and contact service. Continued operation may lead to complete failure of the variator.

Cost of maintenance and operation

Possession Nissan Murano Z51 requires a certain budget for maintenance. Spare parts for this car are available, but prices for original components can be quite high. Analogues exist, but do not always provide the same quality and durability, especially in critical components such as the CVT or suspension.

Maintenance must be carried out regularly and strictly according to regulations. It is recommended to change the oil in the engine every 7-10 thousand km, in the variator - every 40-50 thousand km. Ignoring these requirements can lead to serious damage and increased repair costs in the future. It is also worth considering the cost of insurance and engine power tax.

When choosing a place for service, it is better to give preference to specialized services that are familiar with the design Murano Z51. Regular service stations may not have the necessary equipment to diagnose a CVT or specialized tools to work with a V6 engine. This will help avoid mistakes during repairs and extend the life of the car.

Overall, Nissan Murano Z51 is a car that requires careful attention and regular investments. However, with proper care, it can give its owner years of comfortable and reliable operation, justifying its high price and reputation.

Conclusions and recommendations

Nissan Murano Z51 remains an interesting aftermarket choice for those looking for a comfortable and stylish crossover. Its advantages include excellent sound insulation, high-quality interior and smooth ride. However, a potential buyer should be prepared for high fuel costs and the need to carefully monitor the condition of the variator.

If you choose this car, be sure to conduct a full diagnostic before purchasing. Pay special attention to the service history and condition of the transmission. You should not skimp on the inspection, as the cost of repairing the variator may exceed the cost of the car itself.

Ultimately, Murano Z51 — this is a car with character. It is suitable for those who value comfort over dynamics and are willing to devote time to caring for their vehicle. With the right approach, this crossover will become a reliable companion on long journeys and daily trips around the city.