Used 2012 Nissan Murano SUV Crossover Review & Ratings

The Nissan Murano SUV Crossover was introduced in 2002 as a 2003 model, produced in the United States and intended as a crossover for the US and Canada markets. In fact, the Murano was the only crossover from Nissan available in the US until the release of the Rogue in 2007. The Murano began on the FF-L Platform that had been used by a previous generation of Altima sedan and offered both a front wheel and all wheel drive option. With a 3.5 liter 245 hp V6 engine, the Murano was one of the largest vehicles to use a continuously variable transmission. Still it had a ride and handling that were second to none in the class.

When the second generation of Nissan Murano SUV Crossover was debuted at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto show, everything down to the platform was changed. The exterior was revised to the point that it resembled the recently released Rogue and the interior was changed to one that could easily be mistaken for an Infiniti FX. The Nissan D platform that had previously been used by both the Altima and the Maxima was the foundation for the Murano and it was ready for sales to begin in 2008.

The Nissan Murano SUV Crossover was given an interior design that was more common with upscale automobiles. Higher quality materials were used, the instrument cluster was taken back to a traditional style and the standard features were plentiful. High tech features fill the cabin, which in itself is spacious and luxurious. As many as five passengers will find plenty of room to sit comfortably whether they are in the front or the rear. The backseat reclines for added comfort and there is no lack of headroom for the tallest passengers.

While the well rounded design of the exterior is appealing on the Nissan Murano SUV Crossover, it is the performance that turns the most heads. A 2.5 265 hp V6 engine is mated with a CVT that features adaptive shift control that is considered one of the best CVTs used today. The engine is strong and powerful and it provides a thrilling driving experience. The handling is better than most crossover SUVs and the steering is exact. The Murano provides not only a stylish and powerful, but a comfortable ride for anyone thanks to the sports tuned suspension.