First Impressions of the 2015 Nissan Murano

Photo: Andrew P. Collins via Nissan

This week, auto journalists got their first hands-on experience with the 2015 Nissan Murano, and to no one’s surprise around here, they have only good things to say about it. Built with many of the styling cues from the Nissan Resonance Concept, designers say the third generation Murano was about “pushing the reset button.” Looking at it, we agree that’s the case and we agree with the decision.

Photo: Andrew P. Collins via Nissan

The new body language gives this crossover a much more elongated look, particularly from the side view. This is particularly impressive given that the dimensions of the car haven’t changed all that much. It’s only three inches longer than the 2014 model. Strong character lines and the zig-zagging beltline also combine to make this model look different and, dare we say it, cool.

According to Nissan, the new Murano is envisioned as the flagship of its crossover lineup. The Murano is to CUVs as the Maxima is to sedans. Premium materials elevate the interior to new heights while tried and true powertrain options maintain efficient, reliable propulsion. Under its hood, the Murano has a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an Xtronic continuously variable transmission. Drivers and passengers alike will enjoy Nissan’s zero-gravity seats in either cloth or leather depending on trim level.

Photo: Andrew P. Collins via Nissan

In its first drive review, Autoblog has this to say about the interior experience of the 2015 Murano:

“All in, driving the Murano is perfectly pleasant. And considering the target buyers – empty-nesters, childless couples, or even small families – nothing about how the Murano goes about its business is shocking or underwhelming. The driver’s chair offers a panoramic view of the road ahead, with an upright, comfortable driving position and good sight lines from all angles. Nissan has worked hard to deliver a hushed driving experience, and the engineers have done a fantastic job. Tire and wind noise are hardly noticeable, with a muted quality that’s better than many of Nissan’s more luxurious counterparts at Infiniti.”

Overall, this crossover offers a superior experience with a superior value. Truck Yeah! said in the conclusion of its review:

“You’re not buying a Murano for a thrill behind the wheel, you’re not buying it to go off-road. You get one to move four people and a weekend’s worth of luggage in comfort with a shell that looks a little cooler than your father-in-law’s luxury sedan with a smaller footprint than an SUV and cheaper entry price than the equivalent Lexus. To that end, the Murano is a sweeping success.”

Finally, what might be the most important detail of this new Murano: There won’t be a convertible version.

We hope you’ll continue to follow us for all the latest news on this and other new Nissan models. Leith Nissan is conveniently located in the automall at Cary, just minutes from Raleigh.