The imposing stance of the Nissan Murano provides ample evidence of the car's physical presence. At 4.77 metres long, 1.88 metres wide and 1.685 metres high, the Murano possesses a big footprint. On the inside, that largish size provides a roomy and comfortable travelling space, one that provides ample accommodation for each of the front and rear seat occupants.

In seizing an opportunity to drive the Nissan Murano Ti for a road test in and around Sydney and Newcastle (NSW), we were provided with a Sunlit Copper example of the mid-spec model. The Ti sits between the ST and Ti-L models in the Murano line-up. Prices (RRP) for the Murano currently begin at $49,990 for the ST and progress up to $60,490 for the top of the line Ti-L. The mid-spec Ti model carries a $56,990 price tag.

For this price, it is quite reasonable to expect a comprehensive list of standard equipent. In the case of the Murano Ti, the subject of this road test, standard equipment includes: power windows (auto up/down on driver's window); automatic climate control air conditioning (with rear outlets); central locking (with keyless entry); cruise control (with very easy to use steering wheel controls); Bose audio, featuring an in-dash 6-disc CD player with AM/FM radio (with steering wheel control function) and 6 speakers; leather bound steering wheel and gearshift knob; tilt adjustable steering column (there is no telescopic function!); leather trim; heated front seats; electric operated driver's seat; driver's footrest; lockable centre console (which is deep); trip computer; cargo blind (which, sadly, doesn't quite fully cover the load area); four 18" alloy wheels; sunroof; reversing sensors and the all important cup holders (front and rear).

Safety features include 6 airbags; a front airbag for each front seat occupant, two side-impact airbags and two side curtain airbags.

All Murano models come standard with a 3.5 litre V6 engine with double overhead camshafts, which produces a healthy 318 Nm of torque at a relatively high 3,600 rpm. Powerful acceleration is one of the Murano's key attributes .... if you're happy with the fuel consumption! The Murano uses premium unleaded petrol and Nissan state the average usage is 12.3 litres per 100 kms using the accepted ADR 81/01 standard. Like all SUVs, you have to be quite dedicated to minimal fuel usage to attain the fuel usage which is accurately and fairly stated in the standards.

Automatic transmission is the only transmission choice. The permanent all-wheel drive function is standard.

Our test involved some 897 kms of driving in city, suburban, rural and freeway conditions. The highlights of the drive include satisfaction with the acceleration and the braking. Like all SUVs in the Murano's price range, going around corners and roundabouts isn't as pleasing as a conventional family wagon. However, the sore point with the Murano, just like all petrol-powered SUVs is the high fuel usage. Sure, 12.3 litres per 100 kms is quite a reasonable figure .... but just try achieving it though!

Other delights with the on-road experience were the transmission and the braking. Likewise, the suspension did it's job well. But the real treat with the Murano is the interior space. You won't get complaints about the comfort in the Murano. In this regard, the Murano is way in front of the new Hummer H3 (4x4) which will be in Australia in a few months at prices in the same range as the Murano's.

For those who undertake towing excursions, the Murano is considered a lightweight, at best, because it has a towing capacity of just 1,500 kgs (braked). An unbraked trailer should be 750 kgs maximum.

To the credit of it's designers, the Murano still looks new today, even though it has been around for a good number of years.

But, the question is simple .... is the Murano a misfit in today's new car market? The question is posed because one obvious competitor for the Murano is Nissan's own Pathfinder, a much newer model. However, the Pathfinder is more likely to find favour with those who appreciate the 4x4 qualities and with those who appreciate the diesel engine which is available in Nissan's highly regarded Pathfinder. The Murano is more in-tune with those who successfully run their own business enterprise and with those who seek something a little more trendy than the usual suburban SUV as the Murano exudes prestige, rather than function. And that's where the Murano really shines, the pose value of the stylish upmarket wagon commands respect.

In other words, it looks the part!