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Nissan Murano - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 Nissan Murano ranks 9 out of 30 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 33 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Murano, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The redesigned Murano delivers an even more refined ride and interior than its predecessor, making it an attractive and affordable choice within its class. For an even more affordable and slightly sportier alternative, consider the Mazda CX-7. Or, try the all-new Toyota Venza for better fuel economy.

Nissan skipped the 2008 model year and went straight to the 2009 model Murano, which gets several interior, exterior, and performance refinements. With its base sticker of $26,330 -- $1,500 less than its predecessor -- the 2009 Nissan Murano is also competitively priced. However, it isn't as universally well-liked as its predecessor. "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," says USA Today. Kelley Blue Book named the new Murano as a finalist for the 2009 Best Redesigned Vehicle award.

The 2009 Nissan Murano has three available trims: the base S, the SL, and the top-of-the-line LE. The S and SL come with front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive, while the LE comes standard with all-wheel drive.

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• "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
• "Today, there are several crossovers on the market that have emulated the Murano's design, and the vehicle no longer stands alone." -- Fort Worth Star-Telegram
• "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 2009 Nissan Murano has a more refined driving feel than its predecessor. "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 2009 Nissan Murano looks a lot like the outgoing model -- a fact that is appreciated by all. "The new Murano's styling is bright, clean and edgy, yet the crossover is still recognizable as a Murano," says the Kansas City Star. However, while the original model's styling generated heaps of praise, this year's Murano gets a less enthusiastic reception. Read More

Murano Interior - 8.5 (Very Good)

Thanks to its redesign, the 2009 Nissan Murano's interior is more upscale and better equipped than its predecessor, while continuing to emphasize comfort and functionality. "On the inside, the 2009 Murano could be mistaken for an Infiniti," says Edmunds of 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 2009 Murano good scores in crash tests. In addition, it's designated as a "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. However, the Murano also has sometimes poor visibility -- one of its only sore spots. Read More

Murano Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)

The 2009 Nissan Murano reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Nissan provides a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Read More