Nissan Murano

After almost a decade without a major update, Nissan has introduced the redesigned Murano, the brand's midsized two-row SUV. The new Murano features smoother styling similar to Nissan's all-electric Ariya. Nissan’s dependable V6 engine and idiosyncratic CVT have been replaced with a turbocharged four-cylinder and nine-speed automatic transmission. Although exterior and interior dimensions remain more or less the same, the new Murano benefits from a more robust suite of technology, including standard AEB, BSW, RCTW, automatic high beams, and ProPilot--an optional adaptive cruise control with a steering assist enhancement. Heated, electronically-adjustable front seats are standard, and ventilated, massaging seats are optional, as are a heated steering wheel, panoramic roof glass, and multicolor LED ambient lighting inside.

The third-generation Murano puts more emphasis on styling and interior finish than on top-flight driving dynamics. It's more luxurious, larger, and further refined than previous generations. The punchy, refined 3.5-liter six-cylinder carries over, paired with a CVT, and returns 21 mpg overall. The cabin is quiet and well-finished, and has an upscale feel to it. Handling is not very sporty, with overly light steering that reduces driver confidence. The ride is steady and absorbent on the standard 18-inch tires, but less so on the Platinum trim's 20-inchers. An optional 8-inch color display houses the NissanConnect infotainment system. Changes for 2018 included standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. For 2017, Apple CarPlay is added to the infotainment system. Updates for 2019 include a mild freshening. Nissan's Rear Door Alert system, giving drivers messages on the driver instrument panel, and multiple horn honks as a way to remind drivers to check the rear seats after they park, is also standard for all trims for 2019. For 2021, Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 becomes standard for all trim lines, This package includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning, lane departure warning, high beam assist and rear automatic braking.

The Murano's refined and powerful 3.5-liter V6 is mated to a CVT and delivers strong performance and respectable fuel economy. Handling is responsive, secure, and forgiving. The 2009 redesign brought a more comfortable ride, a nicer interior, and standard ESC, but didn't improve upon cargo capacity. Expect 19 mpg overall from the 3.5-liter V6. Subsequent redesigns took the Murano away from budget-BMW sportiness and towards being more luxurious. Through the years, one constant remained though: limited rear visibility has always been a drawback. A convertible version arrived in 2012.