Nissan Murano Gen 3: Specs, Features & More

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the Nissan Murano Gen 3. If you're a car enthusiast, considering a purchase, or just curious about this stylish crossover, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know about the third generation of this popular vehicle. From its sleek design to its impressive performance and tech features, the Murano Gen 3 has a lot to offer. Let's get started and uncover what makes this SUV stand out in a crowded market.

Unveiling the Design: A Bold and Beautiful Exterior

When the Nissan Murano Gen 3 first hit the scene, it was all about making a statement with its design. Nissan really pushed the envelope here, moving away from the more conservative look of previous generations. The designers gave it this incredibly distinctive V-motion grille up front, which has become a signature Nissan look. It's sharp, aggressive, and totally sets the Murano apart from its rivals. Then you've got these flowing, almost sculptural lines that run along the body. They give the Murano a sense of motion even when it's parked, you know? It looks aerodynamic and premium. The floating roof design is another killer feature. It's achieved through blacked-out pillars, making the roof look like it's hovering above the body. This creates a really modern and sophisticated silhouette that many folks find super appealing. Plus, the LED daytime running lights and taillights are not just functional; they add a distinctive visual signature, especially at night. It's a crossover that doesn't shy away from being noticed. The overall effect is a vehicle that feels both luxurious and sporty, which is a pretty tough balance to strike. Nissan nailed it with the Gen 3 Murano, making it a real head-turner.

A Cabin That Exudes Comfort and Premium Feel

Now, let's talk about the inside, because the Nissan Murano Gen 3 cabin is where comfort meets technology. Nissan calls their approach to interior design ' الاجتماعية '. It's basically about creating a space that feels like a comfortable, premium lounge. Seriously, the seats are amazing. They're often referred to as 'Zero Gravity' seats, inspired by NASA research. What does that mean for you? It means incredible comfort, especially on long drives. They're designed to reduce fatigue and keep you feeling fresh. The materials used throughout the cabin are also a big step up. You'll find soft-touch surfaces, available premium leather, and tasteful wood or metallic accents, depending on the trim level. It all comes together to create an atmosphere that feels more upscale than you might expect from a mainstream crossover. The layout of the dashboard is clean and intuitive. Everything is within easy reach of the driver, and the infotainment screen is front and center, making it simple to control your music, navigation, and other features. Nissan also did a fantastic job with noise insulation. When you're cruising down the highway, the cabin is remarkably quiet. You don't get a lot of road noise or wind noise, which really adds to the premium feel. It's a place where you can actually have a conversation without shouting or enjoy your music without distractions. The spaciousness is another plus. There's plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a great choice for families or anyone who frequently carries passengers. The cargo space is also generous, easily accommodating groceries, luggage, or whatever else you need to haul. Overall, the interior of the Murano Gen 3 is a sanctuary on wheels, offering a blend of luxury, comfort, and practicality that's hard to beat.

Performance and Driving Dynamics: Smooth and Capable

Under the hood, the Nissan Murano Gen 3 packs a punch with its standard 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine delivers a robust 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. Paired with the Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), it offers a smooth and responsive driving experience. Now, I know some people have mixed feelings about CVTs, but Nissan's implementation here is pretty refined. It keeps the engine in its power band efficiently, providing quick acceleration when you need it, whether you're merging onto the highway or overtaking slower traffic. The acceleration is surprisingly brisk for a vehicle of this size, and the engine noise is generally well-managed, contributing to that quiet cabin we talked about. Handling is another area where the Murano Gen 3 shines. It's not a sports car, obviously, but for a mid-size crossover, it offers a very comfortable and composed ride. The suspension does a great job of soaking up bumps and imperfections in the road, giving you a smooth experience whether you're on city streets or tackling longer journeys. The steering is also well-weighted, providing good feedback without being overly heavy. This makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and gives you confidence when navigating winding roads. While the standard setup is front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive (AWD) is available on all trim levels. The AWD system is intelligent, automatically distributing power between the front and rear wheels as needed to optimize traction and stability, especially in slippery conditions. This makes the Murano Gen 3 a capable option for areas with inclement weather. Fuel economy is respectable for a V6-powered crossover, typically landing in the low 20s for combined MPG, which is pretty good considering the power on offer. Ultimately, the driving experience in the Murano Gen 3 is characterized by its smoothness, comfort, and quietness, making it an excellent choice for daily commuting and road trips alike.

Advanced Technology and Safety Features: Keeping You Connected and Protected

When we talk about the Nissan Murano Gen 3, we're not just talking about looks and comfort; we're also talking about being smart and safe. Nissan really packed this crossover with a ton of technology, both for entertainment and for keeping you and your passengers out of harm's way. Let's start with the infotainment system. Most models come standard with an 8-inch touchscreen display. It's responsive, easy to navigate, and supports features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This means you can seamlessly integrate your smartphone to access your favorite apps, make calls, send texts, and get directions, all through the car's interface. It's a game-changer for staying connected on the go. Other available tech goodies include a premium Bose audio system that sounds fantastic, a navigation system, SiriusXM Travel Link for real-time traffic and weather updates, and multiple USB ports to keep all your devices charged. But where the Murano Gen 3 truly excels is in its safety features. Nissan offers a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that are designed to prevent accidents or mitigate their severity. These include features like: Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects a potential collision with another vehicle or a pedestrian. Blind Spot Warning helps alert you if a vehicle is in your blind spot when you're trying to change lanes. Rear Cross Traffic Alert is super handy when backing out of a parking spot, as it warns you of approaching vehicles you might not see. Intelligent Cruise Control can automatically adjust your speed to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on the highway. Lane Departure Warning and Lane Intervention help keep you centered in your lane. Some higher trims even offer a surround-view camera system, which gives you a bird's-eye view of your surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces incredibly easy. These advanced safety features work together to create a more confident and secure driving experience, giving you peace of mind every time you get behind the wheel. It's clear that Nissan prioritized both innovation and safety with the Murano Gen 3.

Trim Levels and Options: Finding Your Perfect Murano

Nissan offers the Nissan Murano Gen 3 in several well-equipped trim levels, allowing buyers to choose the one that best fits their needs and budget. While specific offerings can vary slightly by model year, the common trims usually include the S, SV, SL, and the top-tier Platinum. The S trim is the base model, but don't let that fool you; it still comes with a good amount of standard equipment, including the V6 engine, Xtronic CVT, 18-inch alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, and the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration. Stepping up to the SV trim usually adds features like remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and often some additional exterior styling enhancements. The SL trim takes things a notch higher by introducing premium features like leather-appointed seats, a power-adjustable steering column, a power liftgate, an upgraded Bose audio system, and more advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Finally, the Platinum trim is the pinnacle of Murano luxury. It typically includes everything from the lower trims, plus features like nappa leather seats, ventilated front seats, a panoramic moonroof, 20-inch alloy wheels, and the full suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Beyond the standard features within each trim, there are also optional packages and standalone options that allow for further customization. For instance, you might find packages that bundle together a premium navigation system, a dual-panel panoramic moonroof, or enhanced interior trim. When choosing your Murano Gen 3, it's worth considering how you plan to use the vehicle. If you're primarily a city driver looking for comfort and style, an SV or SL might be perfect. If you want the absolute best in luxury and technology, and perhaps plan on more frequent long-distance travel or need advanced safety features, the Platinum trim is definitely worth the investment. Always check the specific features for the model year you're interested in, as Nissan occasionally updates the standard and optional equipment. Finding the right trim level ensures you get the most value and enjoyment out of your Murano.

The Verdict: Is the Nissan Murano Gen 3 Right for You?

So, after breaking down the Nissan Murano Gen 3, the big question remains: is this the crossover for you? If you're looking for a vehicle that blends striking, distinctive styling with a comfortable and upscale interior, then the answer is a resounding yes. The Murano Gen 3 is designed for those who appreciate a bit of flair and don't want their daily driver to blend into the crowd. The Zero Gravity seats are a serious plus for anyone who spends a lot of time behind the wheel, offering unparalleled comfort on long hauls. The standard V6 engine provides ample power for confident driving, and the available AWD system adds an extra layer of security for those living in less-than-ideal weather conditions. We also love the tech and safety features. Having Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is practically essential these days, and the comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems provides excellent peace of mind. It's a crossover that feels sophisticated and modern, offering a premium experience without necessarily commanding a luxury price tag. Of course, no car is perfect for everyone. If your absolute top priority is off-road capability or maximum cargo volume compared to some larger SUVs, you might want to explore other options. However, for the vast majority of crossover buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and well-equipped vehicle for commuting, family duty, and road trips, the Nissan Murano Gen 3 is an absolutely fantastic choice. It consistently ranks high for its design, comfort, and overall value. So, guys, if you're in the market for a mid-size crossover that's a little bit different, a little bit more stylish, and a whole lot more comfortable, definitely give the Murano Gen 3 a serious look. You might just find your perfect match!