Overview:
The 2024 Nissan Murano is a spacious and comfortable two-row crossover with a distinctive design. However, it falls short when compared to more modern rival SUVs. Its aging platform and dated technology are major drawbacks. The Murano does have a decent V-6 engine and a comfortable ride, but it lacks the excitement and practicality offered by its competitors such as the Honda Passport, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Jeep Grand Cherokee. It’s time for Nissan to consider retiring this generation of the Murano.
What’s New for 2024?
The 2024 Murano is the last model year of its current generation, as Nissan is preparing a fourth-generation version for 2025. There are few changes for this year, but the base S trim has been eliminated and the mid-range SL model now comes standard with a panoramic sunroof.
Pricing and Which One to Buy:
Since the Murano is one of the older options in its class and finished last in a comparison test, it’s best to avoid the more expensive models. The Murano SV offers a good balance of style and substance at a reasonable price. It comes with features such as adaptive cruise control, power-adjustable front seats with heat, and remote start.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance:
All Murano models are equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 260 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive can be added. The engine is paired with a CVT. The Murano offers decent performance both on the test track and in everyday driving. However, the CVT can be noisy when pushed hard. The Murano excels on long-distance highway drives, providing a smooth and quiet ride. Its suspension is tuned for comfort, making it suitable for road trips. However, it lacks excitement on twisty roads and has limited towing capacity.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG:
The EPA estimates that the Murano will achieve 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The addition of all-wheel drive doesn’t affect these ratings much. In real-world testing, the Murano fell slightly short of its highway fuel economy estimate but still performed well compared to its rivals.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo:
The Murano’s cabin is comfortable and well-equipped, but it does show its age in terms of design. The Platinum trim comes with soft leather upholstery and dark teak-wood trim. Both front-seat occupants will find themselves in plush and cozy seats. The rear seats offer plenty of space and comfort. The Murano’s cargo capacity is below average for this class, with only nine carry-on suitcases fitting behind the rear seat. However, with the rear seat folded, the Murano can accommodate 26 suitcases. The interior storage bins are adequate, but the glovebox is exceptionally large.
Infotainment and Connectivity:
All Murano models come with an 8.0-inch color touchscreen display featuring Nissan’s NissanConnect infotainment system. Navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM with Travel Link are now standard across the range. The Murano also offers multiple USB ports, including ones on the back of the center console for rear-seat passengers.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features:
Nissan provides a range of standard driver-assistance technologies on the Murano. It has received good crash-test ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Key safety features include forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage:
The Murano’s standard warranty package is not remarkable compared to its rivals. Other vehicles in this segment offer longer roadside assistance plans. The Santa Fe and Kia Sorento also provide a nontransferable 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain policy.
Specifications:
– Vehicle Type: front-engine, front- or all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback
– Engine: DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injection
– Displacement: 213 cu in, 3498 cc
– Power: 260 hp @ 6000 rpm
– Torque: 240 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
– Transmission: continuously variable automatic with manual shifting mode
– Dimensions (length, width, height): 192.8 in, 75.4 in, 67.8 in
– Passenger volume: 103–109 cu ft
– Cargo volume: 31–32 cu ft
– Curb weight: 3850–4050 lb
– Fuel Economy: 23/20/28 mpg (combined/city/highway)
In conclusion, the 2024 Nissan Murano is a comfortable and spacious crossover, but it falls short when compared to more modern competitors. Its aging platform, dated technology, and limited cargo capacity are major drawbacks. While its V-6 engine provides decent power and its ride is comfortable, it lacks excitement and practicality. The Murano is outclassed in its class and Nissan should consider retiring this generation of the vehicle.
