• 2013 Nissan Murano

• 2012 Nissan Murano
• Used Nissan Murano
• Repairs Nissan Murano

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Nissan Murano U.S. News Best Cars 7.8
Critics' Rating:	7.5
Performance:	8.0
Interior:	8.3
Safety:	8.7
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Pros & Cons

• Strong V6 engine
• Good handling (regular Murano)
• Upscale interior

• Front seats lack side support
• Little steering feedback
• Poor handling (CrossCabriolet)
• Limited cargo space (CrossCabriolet)

Research Other Years

• 2012 Nissan Murano
• 2011 Nissan Murano
• 2010 Nissan Murano
• 2009 Nissan Murano
• 2007 Nissan Murano

The 2013 Nissan Murano ranks 11 out of 21 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 48 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Murano, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2013 Nissan Murano is an upscale SUV with decent performance and handling. It also has an upscale, high-quality cabin that seats five. A convertible variant, called the CrossCabriolet, is also available, though it doesn’t get much love from critics.

Test drivers say the Murano and convertible Murano CrossCabriolet are decent performers, with a standard V6 engine that has ample power for all situations. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that critics like. They say that the standard Murano also handles very well, with good comfort over rough roads and better handling than most SUVs exhibit. They note that the brakes are strong, although like most crossovers, reviewers say the steering isn't responsive to the driver. The Murano’s fuel economy, at 18/24 mpg city/highway, is about average for the class. Reviewers note that the CrossCabriolet handles very differently, with a suspension tuned too much for comfort that detracts from its handling.

The Murano has an upscale cabin that some reviewers say wouldn't be out of place in an Infiniti. They report that material quality is good and everything seems well-assembled. It comes with a decent array of standard features, including dual-zone climate control and a six-disc CD changer with an auxiliary input jack. The regular Murano seats five, while the CrossCabriolet seats four. The standard Murano’s cargo capacity is on par with its rivals, but the CrossCabriolet has very little use as a cargo hauler.

• "Though it's starting to feel a bit long in the tooth, Murano remains a likable SUV that offers a comfortable interior, versatile cargo utility, and a strong, refined powertrain. All models are pricey, but offer a generous level of standard features." -- Consumer Guide
• "If you're looking for a crossover SUV that has sports-car styling and room for people and cargo, the 2013 Nissan Murano is a tempting option." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The … Nissan Murano remains a comfortable five-seat crossover with a higher-quality interior than you'd expect from a non-luxury brand, but shoppers should watch that gas mileage." -- Cars.com
• "The Nissan Murano is a quiet, comfortable and refined midsize crossover with a curvaceous look that sets it apart from its rivals. While it returns only middling fuel economy, the rest of the Murano is strong enough to warrant a serious look from those seeking a solid five-passenger crossover." -- Left Lane News

Other SUVs to Consider

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a good alternative to the Murano, as it boasts a nice interior, refined on-pavement ride and great off-road capability. It comes standard with a V6 that gets comparable fuel economy to the Murano. However, it is also available with a choice of two V8 engines that reviewers say give it both great acceleration and lousy fuel economy. The Grand Cherokee is also a good choice if you need a tow vehicle, as it can tow up to 7,400 pounds, which is nearly 3,000 pounds more than the Murano.

Another SUV to cross-shop against the Murano is the Ford Edge, which reviewers say has an upscale interior and a comfortable ride. Its biggest source of criticism is the optional MyFord Touch infotainment system, which reviewers say is difficult to use and not particularly fast. Like the Murano, the Edge is available with front- or all-wheel drive, but has a more diverse lineup of engine choices, including a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that gets an EPA-estimated 21/30 mpg city/highway, which is among the best fuel economy in the class.

Compare the Murano, Grand Cherokee and Edge »

Details: 2013 Nissan Murano

The 2013 Nissan Murano is available in four trims: S, SV, SL and LE. The convertible CrossCabriolet is available in one trim, and its equipment level is on par with the higher trims of the regular Murano. Both models come with a V6 engine and continuously variable transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional, though the CrossCabriolet comes standard with AWD. The regular Murano seats up to five, while the CrossCabriolet seats four. Since the Murano hasn’t changed much since being remodeled  in 2009, this overview uses applicable research and reviews from the 2009 to 2013 model years.

See the full 2013 Nissan Murano specifications »