Nissan's 2018 Murano
could be the best choice for you if typical crossover SUVs seem too dull and
boring.
For starters, a sleek
roofline and dramatic curves give the 2018 Murano a distinctive look. Inside,
the interior is noticeably upscale thanks to high-quality materials,
impressively comfortable front seats, an attractive ergonomic design, and a generous list of standard comfort and convenience features.
We're also fond of the
Murano's combination of a standard V6 engine and a continuously variable
automatic transmission (CVT) that work together for smooth power and
respectable fuel economy.
2018 Nissan Murano Models:
The 2018 Nissan Murano
crossover is available in four model segments:
- 2018
Nissan Murano S
- 2018
Nissan Murano SV
- 2018
Nissan Murano SL
- 2018
Nissan Murano Platinum
Each model has a V6
engine-3.5-liter, 240 pound-feet of torque, 260 horsepower, and a continuously
variable automatic transmission-CVT Front-wheel drive comes standard; all-wheel the drive is optional.
Each vehicle comes in
multiple versions, although trim levels share many aspects.
Driving
The Murano's continuously
variable automatic transmission balances performance and efficiency; the
suspension leans toward comfort. A solid all-around performer but not sporty.
Acceleration
The 260-hp engine is more
than required to twin with this SUV, which is of midsize. The V6's twinning
with a CVT automatic is comfortable driving, responsive, and quiet.
Steering
The lightweight feel at
parking lot speeds makes the Murano easy to move around. As speed increases,
though it adds little heaviness, but there's never much road feel- which seems
to be a must-buy, Murano.
Drivability
A continuously variable
automatic transmission gives the Murano all the responsiveness and swiftness it
requires. Press the gas pedal even a little, and you get a quick response from
under the hood.
Seat comfort-Outstanding
seats front and rear. Among the most comfortable in the business.
Climate control-Upper-end
trims are available with dual-zone auto climate control. It's a secure system
to use with buttons for manual fan speed adjustments and knobs for temperature
control.
There are additional
vents for the rear seats and available ventilated and heated seats. It's a
stable setup with no notable issues.
Interior
A significant effort was
invested in advancing the interior quality in this Murano. Top trims present
interior materials of which leather adorns most surfaces, and built-in lighting
is striking. Some unconventional design choices, but none results in loss of
functionality.
Ease of use
Most controls are easily
accessible and intelligently arranged. Though the issue on the Murano is the
placement of the start button low on the center stack, but it's not a
deal-breaker.
There's the proper
placement of most secondary controls such as temperature and volume and an
excellent infotainment interface.
Getting in/Getting out
The front doors open to
almost 90 degrees, and the vehicle doesn't stand very high, so getting in and
out is relatively easy upfront.
Utility
Though not the spacious
cargo area in the class, but not the smallest either. The Murano is similar to
its main rivals with a wide, flat opening at the rear that's able to occupy a a substantial chunk of luggage without infringing on the second row
Child safety seat
accommodation
There's too much of room
to install/ setup a rear-facing child seat in either of the outboard rear-seat
positions and still, have proportionate space for the driver or front
passenger. LATCH attachment points are easy to find.
Towing
At 1,500 pounds, the
Murano's towing capacity is on the medium scale, which can't be overruled,
though.
Technology
Those willing to pay for
the pricey model segments will get everything from advanced safety technologies
to a full-featured navigation system with an 8-inch touchscreen.
Audio & Navigation
Turn-by-turn navigation
directions in the gauge cluster are a thoughtful touch, reducing constant
reliance on the more massive center stack display.
The standard audio system
should satisfy most, but the optional Bose upgrade (SV and above) is worth it
for music lovers.
Smartphone Incorporation
Bluetooth and
Apple-Android device integration is general on all models. Seamless pairing
process. Optional NissanConnect with Mobile Apps includes Facebook,
iHeartRadio, and Pandora functionality.
Driver Aids and Voice Control
Front collision warning is standard. Phonebooks, navigation, and audio offer voice control, whereas Recognition capability, is very competent.
