Nissan Murano Ti road test
by Stephen Walker
20th August, 2014
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The Murano has served Nissan quite well over the years. In fact, past
examples of this larger SUV have endeared the model to the Next Car team.
The final update of the current generation occurred earlier this year ahead of the next generation model coming along
next year.
Whilst never appearing on the best-seller lists, the Nissan Murano steadily moves out of the showrooms and into happy
motoring scenarios. A thorough review of the Murano's specifications and a comprehensive driving experience demonstrates
just why this model is so pleasing.
Test car particulars
The test car was the Nissan Murano Ti, the top of the line in the two model line-up.
Variants and prices*
Murano ST is the entry level and it is priced from $48,990*. The well equipped Murano Ti begins from $60,240*
On the road in the Nissan Murano
The smooth and quiet on-road manners of the Murano are immediately noticed and this aspect is the one point that
ensures that the Murano retains its prized reputation for NVH management.
Interior design is another highlight for the Nissan Murano. It is roomy and comfortable. The front seats are somewhat
flat, lacking the typical side and thigh bolsters that are often specified in today's upmarket models. That said, you can
be sure though that comfort is very pleasing as I discovered during 432 kilometres in this car.
The four-way electrically adjusted steering column is a wonderful feature when you have several drivers using the
car. So, too, is the keyless entry/start.
The foot-operated parking brake works well but it does seem to be a relic of the past considering the widely accepted
electrically-operated parking brakes are almost a common fitment these days.
The cruise control is excellent and it includes a speed management feature.
An automatic tailgate is a great feature in this class of vehicle and the Murano's works well as I discovered on
several occasions when using the boot. A cargo blind is fitted.
It is worth repeating that the Murano has excellent interior space for a vehicle in this market segment. The roomy
interior even has more than adequate foot space upfront, a design feature that isn't available in all vehicles.
The high seating position will appeal to many occupants. It isn't a burden to get up into the Murano for some-one of
my size but the Murano is getting very close to be being at the maximum size for easy entry/egress.
Specifications
The all-aluminium V6 has 3,498cc to provide 191kW of power @ 6,000rpm and a maximum of 336Nm of torque @ 4,400rpm.
Intelligent ALL MODE 4x4 system with 4WD Lock Mode is standard and this includes Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Active
Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) & Traction Control System (TCS).
The transmission is a constantly variable unit (CVT) which provides very smooth operation in the Murano.
Steering is a hydraulic power assisted unit. Turning circle is 11 metres (approximately), an excellent figure for a
vehicle as large as the Murano.
The four-wheel ventilated disc brakes are standard.
Twenty-inch alloy wheels are standard on the new Murano Ti.
Fuel
Factory figures indicate the 'combined cycle' fuel consumption rating is 10.9 litres per 100 kms.
The onboard trip computer indicated that we consumed 8.5 litres per 100 kms during our 432 kilometres. Our low figure
reflects freeway driving of approximately 200 kilometres and a further 100 kilometres on highways. That said, nothing
detracts from the clear evidence that our low consumption figure is quite impressive for a cross-over vehicle this size.
The Murano runs on premium unleaded petrol (95RON or higher).
The fuel tank capacity is 82 litres.
Connectivity/Infotainment
Standard: Bose® Single CD player with AM/FM radio, 7" integrated colour display and MP3/WMA compatibility and 11
speakers, including 2 subwoofers; RGA Video and USB input jack (video in NTSC standard only); 9.3GB music box hard drive;
Steering wheel audio controls; HDD Satellite Navigation with 3D mapping and 7" integrated colour display with touch
screen and steering wheel controls; Bluetooth hands-free phone system (for compatible devices); iPod+ connectivity (or USB
storage device) via USB connection.
Satellite navigation is standard in the Ti.
Safety
Standard: Six airbags; Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) including Traction Control System (TCS); Active Brake Limited
Slip (ABLS); Anti-lock Braking System (ABS); Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD); Brake Assist (BA).
Murano Ti includes safety technologies such as Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning and Moving Object
Detection.
Blind Spot Warning alerts drivers to the presence of other vehicles travelling in their blind spots. It delivers a
sound alert and ‘warning indicator’ fitted to the Murano Ti’s passenger-side mirror. Lane Departure Warning makes certain
a moment’s distraction doesn’t become a catastrophic error by ensuring that the driver does not unintentionally drift out
of their lane. Should they veer off their intended course, the driver will be instantly alerted by both a display
indicator and an audible warning. Moving Object Detection automatically engages whenever the Murano Ti is in reverse,
activating the rear view monitor to show what’s behind the vehicle on the display screen and giving both a visual and
audio alert to any objects that move into the Murano Ti’s path.
Importantly, a reversing camera is standard. I would like to see more vehicles include this piece of equipment as a
normal fitment for the improvement of both safety and convenience. Tight parking spaces in apartment blocks and hotels
make a camera highly desirable as every centimetre counts in some manoeuvring situations.
Dimensions
Length: 4,860 mm
Width: 1,885 mm (excluding mirrors)
Height: 1,730 mm
Wheelbase: 2,825 mm
Luggage capacity: 378 litres
Tare weight: 1,856kg
4WD aspects
Ground clearance: 185mm
Approach angle: 28 degrees
Departure angle: 26 degrees
Towing
Subject to the fitment of suitable towing equipment, the Murano can tow a trailer with brakes up to 1,500kg and
without brakes a 750kg limit is applicable.
After Sales
A 3 year/100,000 kms warranty, Capped Price Service and 24-Hour Roadside Assistance Programme are included with
Murano (conditions apply with these items).
A Nissan Extended Warranty is available as an option.
Conclusion
There is no hiding the clear fact that the Nissan Murano Ti is a thoroughly pleasing SUV. When a car is as smooth and
as quiet as the Murano Ti then you just cannot be dissatisfied. The design of the Murano ensures space is more than
adequate for this class of vehicle and the comfort is particularly satisfying. The Nissan Murano is more than competitive
in the larger SUV class.
If Nissan think that next year's new generation model is going to better than this current edition of the Murano then
they have plenty of fast talking to do ..... because this model Murano is a superb vehicle which needs little in the way
of improvement in my opinion!
NOTE: * Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) excludes dealer delivery
fees and the numerous statutory charges (commonly known as on-road costs). Additionally, please note that all prices,
fees and charges are subject to change without notice, as are the specifications.
E&OE
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