3rd Generation Nissan Murano

Dec 16, 2014

2015-murano-blog

Excitement abounds since Nissan has launched the third generation of the Murano, marking a dramatic turn for the popular crossover. The exterior of the new model has looks that will make everyone stop and notice, including LED boomerang taillights, a V-motion front end that conveys power and movement, plus a roof that looks like it’s floating. Not only is the outside of the Murano a thing of beauty, it’s also highly functional thanks to a mere 0.31 drag coefficient.

Drivers in the Atlanta area who want to get their hands on the all-new Murano need to know that Nissan has announced a starting price of $30,445, which does include the destination fee. That price is for the base S model with front-wheel drive. There are four trim levels, and each can be had with front- or all-wheel drive. Adding all-wheel drive to the S increases the price to $32,045. The SV starts out at $33,505 or $35,105 with all-wheel drive added. Buyers can get the SL for a starting price of $37,835, which increases to $39,435 when all-wheel drive is added. The top-of-the-line Platinum has a starting price of $39,885, or $41,485 with all-wheel drive added.

SL and Platinum models can be outfitted with an optional Tech Package. Among the included features is an Around View monitor, NissanConnect navigation system, Intelligent Key with push-button ignition, and a Bose premium sound system with eleven speakers.

The interior of the 2015 Murano offers drama to match the exterior, plus a cool vibe and plenty of comfort features. A modern touch has been added to the controls and gauges. With a lower center console, power panoramic roof, and futuristic-looking Zero Gravity outboard seats, the interior has an airy and open feeling that is refreshing. The total cabin volume measures 147.7 cubic feet, which is the best in its class, as is the 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats.

Power comes from a 3.5-liter DOHC V-6 engine that comes standard in all of the trim levels. It pumps out a healthy 260 horsepower, plus works with an advanced Xtronic transmission for smooth power delivery and excellent efficiency. Nissan says fuel economy has improved about 20 percent over the previous generation of the Murano when looking at the combined figure of 24 mpg. The city and highway fuel economy estimates are 21 and 28 mpg, respectively. That translates into fewer trips to the gas pump.

Safety is a big deal in the all-new Murano, helping the driver avoid dangerous situations before it’s too late as well as keeping everyone safe when the vehicle unfortunately does crash. Nissan not only offers things like advanced airbags and a safety occupant cage, buyers can also add additional safety measures. The Around View system can be outfitted with a Moving Object Detection (MOD) feature that alerts the driver of things like other vehicles, children, cyclists and even animals get near the vehicle. The Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW) system combines with Forward Emergency Braking (FEB) to help avoid frontal collisions. The Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) systems act like extra eyes for the driver, detecting threats that are hidden out of view.

One of the biggest changes for the third generation of the Nissan Murano is the upgraded and all-new technology. Through the NissanConnect system, owners can access the vehicle remotely, lock the doors, and perform other vital tasks. Buyers can add features like an eight-inch color screen that uses multi-touch control, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, driver’s seat with eight different power adjustable areas and lumbar support, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, and an iPod interface.

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