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The Murano is eye catching when on the street and the shark like design makes the car look slender from outside. The SUV/rover vehicle crossbreed seems a lot more bulky and massive from the inside already, making the rear view camera that automatically switches on with the reverse gear a really useful tool. The interior seems tidy, noble and dry with brushed aluminium around the gear shift area. The cockpit gauges remind of older Star Wars adventures.
Also the 3,5 litre six-cylinder engine is rather bulky. Taken from the 350Z-sportscar, it and the continuously variable transmission allow for an aggressive all out acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h.
The four wheel drive usually works front wheel based and switches up to 50% of its power to the back when needed (i.e. for accelerating and slippery surface).
Despite the sound appearance (leaving aside the suspension tuning), this US-market-car, will probably stay a minority-program in Europe. This can already be seen from the only available configuration version for 51.000 Euro (Austria) coming with electronically adjustable leather seats, 6-disc CD-changer with excellent Bose-audio-system, electric sunroof, bi-xenon headlights, 18-inch wheels and navigation with bird view.
A multi-function trip computer is not available at all (no consumption record!), nor are extras like rain or light sensor that would have fit to a car in that price range.
The Nissan Murano in motion
Engine/Powertrain * * * *
We liked: 234 hp resulting from 6 cylinders are a potent mix, even for 1,8 tons of live weight, especially in combination with continuously variable transmission (CVT).
We didn't like: This potent mix also requires a lot of gas, equalling up to 18 litres in urban areas.
Comfort * * * *
We liked: Comfortable seats, capital finish, convenient handle bars in the trunk compartment for dropping the back row, great audio system, height adjustable seat belts (for children) in the back.
We didn't like: Designed for the US-market, making the suspension to soft. Uneven surface makes the car shiver, no fuel consumption control. The centre console opens from the side and is hard to reach for the front seat passenger. The great audio system with CD-switch only works with the ignition on.
Driving Characteristics * * *
We liked: Low noise level, even at high speed. Suspension allows for smooth interstate driving.
We didn't like: No optimum calibration for bad and winding roads. Steering wheel transfers bumpiness. With potholes the rear wheels tend to rumble and to shift slightly. The wind and tires sweep loud at higher speeds.
Room Capacities/Variability * * * * *
We liked: Plenty of space for five adults, sufficient leg room, trunk compartment from 438 up to 1965 litres, lots of deposits (could be more in the back) and a lockable compartment in the centre consol, big enough to store a laptop.
We didn't like: With such a big car, the head room for driver and front seat passenger could be better.
Performance * * * * *
Top speed: 200 km/h. Acceleration: from 0 to 100 km/h in 8,9 seconds. Tested fuel consumption: 13,8 litres for 100 km. Price (only one model available): 51.000 Euro (in Austria, incl. all taxes)
Data from the manufacturer
Engine
Six-cylinder V 60 engine, 3498 ccm, 172 kW/234 hp at 6000 rpm, 318 Nm at 3600 rpm, four valves per cylinder, 2x2 overhead camshaft, crankshaft with four main bearings, alloy block and cave.
Powertrain
four wheel drive with central limited differential, ESP, continuously variable transmission.
Chassis and Body
station wagon, five doors, five seats; 1865 kilogram when empty, 2380 kg maximum weight; self supporting body; all-independent suspension set-up with supporting frame; Mc-Pherson struts with anti-roll bar and lateral link set-up; rear multi-link, Ripple control shock absorbers in front and back.
Tyres, Brakes and Steering
all round disc brakes (vented up front), ABS with EBD, foot parking brake for rear wheels; power-assisted rack and pinion steering, fuel tank of 82 litres, wheels 225/65 R 18, rims 7.5 J.
Dimensions and Weights
Wheelbase 2825 mm, length 4770 mm, width 1880 mm, height 1745 mm,180 mm ground clearance, turning circle 12 meters.
Fuel Consumption
for 100 km (according to manufacturer): urban 17,2, extra-urban 9,5, mixed 12,3 litres (95 Octane)
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