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Nissan Murano - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Nissan Murano ranks 3 out of 27 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 35 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Murano, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Redesigned just last year, the Murano continues to be an attractive and affordable choice within its class, offering an especially sporty ride.

 

In 2009, the Murano received several interior, exterior, and performance refinements, as well as an even more competitive base price. Though it wasn't as universally well-liked as its predecessor, the 2009 model still received generous praise. Kelley Blue Book even named it as a finalist for the 2009 Best Redesigned Vehicle award.

At 18/23 mpg, the Murano's fuel economy is in the top half of its class, and its base price falls somewhere near the middle. But where it really has competitors trumped is with its sporty performance -- an uncommon attribute in the affordable midsize SUV class. "Murano is a likable SUV that retains the model's secure handling, comfortable interior, cargo utility, and strong, refined powertrain," writes Consumer Guide. "Midsize SUV shoppers should add it to their test-drive list."

There are very few affordable SUVs that can match the Murano's enjoyable driving experience and sleek styling. However, the one that surpasses it is the 2010 Mazda CX-7. It's about $6,000 cheaper than the Murano, offers better fuel economy and boasts an even sportier ride.

For 2010, the Murano continues fundamentally unchanged, though its LE trim is now available with both front- and all-wheel drive. Since the 2010 model is virtually identical to the 2009 Murano, you may be able to get a discount on a 2009 as dealers scramble to make way for the 2010s on their lots. If you want to save even more money, consider a used 2007 Murano -- many reviewers consider it more stylish and better overall than the redesigned 2009 model. Be sure to check out this month's Nissan Deals for incentives.

The 2010 Nissan Murano comes in three trims: the base S, the SL, and the top-of-the-line LE.

• "Nissan calls this generation an evolution, and that's accurate -- the company made a lot of positive changes without straying too far from what buyers know to be a Murano." -- Motor Trend
• "Those who liked the old Murano will love this one. Nissan stayed true to what the crossover is known for. But other than the new front end, it takes a sharp eye to see the difference between new and old." -- Truck Trend
• "Murano's combination of 'distinctive' appearance, comfortable yet sporty road manners and high-class interior probably will be enough to outweigh the gripes for those considering such a vehicle." -- USA Today
• "Nissan retains the Murano's attractive qualities while making some key improvements to keep this sporty crossover more than competitive in the midsize segment." -- Edmunds

 

Murano Performance - 8.2 (Very Good)

The 2010 Nissan Murano offers an especially enjoyable driving experience. "The highway ride is nicely controlled and supple (engineers worked to address criticism that the original was too stiff), the steering is light yet accurate, and the Murano can be guided along a country road at respectable speeds," says Car and Driver. In fact, the Murano performs so well that it receives almost no criticism.  Read More

Murano Exterior - 7.3 (Good)

The 2010 Nissan Murano has a sleek look. That said, it no longer stands out as much as it once did due to changes implemented during its 2009 redesign. "The...Murano still has handsome, distinctive styling, but this one doesn't advance the cause like the original one did," says the Orlando Sentinel. "That said, no one will be ashamed to be seen in the [Murano]."  Read More

Murano Interior - 8.5 (Very Good)

Thanks to its redesign, the 2010 Nissan Murano's interior is more upscale and better equipped than its predecessor, while continuing to emphasize comfort and functionality. "On the inside, the...Murano could be mistaken for an Infiniti," says Edmunds of the interior quality. Though the SUV features only two rows of seats (unlike some competitors, which feature three), this allows even more room for comfort. The Murano also comes with an extremely versatile cargo area.  Read More

Murano Safety - 9.4 (Excellent)

The federal government gives the 2010 Murano good scores in crash tests. However, the Murano has somewhat poor rear visibility -- one of its only sore spots.  Read More

Murano Reliability - NA

Nissan provides a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty.  Read More