2017 Nissan Murano Platinum: A Detailed Look

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum, a ride that really stood out in its segment. If you're in the market for a stylish, comfortable, and feature-packed mid-size crossover, you'll want to stick around. The Platinum trim, as the name suggests, is the top-tier offering, and let me tell you, it does not disappoint. Nissan really went all out to make this Murano feel premium, and it shows in everything from the exterior design to the interior appointments and the driving experience. We're going to break down what makes this SUV tick, covering its standout features, performance, and why it might just be the perfect vehicle for you or your family. So, buckle up, grab a coffee, and let's get into the nitty-gritty of the 2017 Murano Platinum. We'll be exploring its engine, the smooth ride it offers, the incredible technology packed inside, and of course, that luxurious feel that sets the Platinum trim apart from the rest. Whether you're a seasoned Murano owner or just curious about what this generation has to offer, this review is for you. We'll also touch on its practicality for everyday life, from grocery runs to road trips, because let's face it, a car needs to be more than just pretty – it needs to work for you. So, let's kick things off with a look at its striking exterior, shall we?

Exterior Elegance and First Impressions

When the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum first rolls up, it definitely makes a statement. Nissan’s design language, often referred to as the "Resonance" concept, is really on full display here, and it's a look that has aged remarkably well. The front fascia is dominated by Nissan’s signature V-motion grille, which gives the Murano a bold and distinctive face. It’s flanked by sleek, boomerang-shaped headlights that add to its modern and somewhat aggressive stance. The body lines are fluid and sculpted, avoiding the boxy look of some older SUVs and opting for a more dynamic, almost car-like profile. The roofline has a unique, 'floating' appearance, thanks to the blacked-out pillars, which really enhances its sophisticated look. You’ll find premium touches all around, even on the lower trims, but the Platinum really ups the ante. Standard on the Platinum are 18-inch machine-finished alloy wheels, which fill out the wheel wells nicely and contribute to its upscale presence. LED daytime running lights are standard, ensuring it's visible and looks sharp, day or night. The rear end is equally distinctive, with sculpted taillights that echo the boomerang shape of the headlights and a clean, uncluttered tailgate. Chrome accents are used judiciously to highlight key design elements, such as the door handles and the lower bumper trim, adding that touch of luxury expected of a Platinum model. Power-folding side mirrors with integrated turn signals are a nice convenience feature, and the panoramic moonroof, a staple of the higher trims, further elevates the exterior appeal, letting in plenty of natural light and making the cabin feel even more spacious and airy. Overall, the 2017 Murano Platinum is a handsome crossover that doesn't blend into the background. It's designed to turn heads, and frankly, it succeeds with its bold, aerodynamic, and elegantly finished exterior.

Interior Luxury and Comfort: Stepping Inside the Platinum

Now, let's talk about the real star of the show for the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum: the interior. This is where the Platinum trim truly shines and justifies its top-tier status. Nissan designers clearly focused on creating a cabin that feels less like a utilitarian SUV and more like a premium lounge on wheels. The moment you step inside, you're greeted by semi-aniline leather-appointed seats, which are incredibly soft and supportive. The front seats aren't just comfortable; they're climate-controlled, offering both heating and cooling functions – a huge win for comfort in any weather. The driver's seat also boasts a power lumbar support and a power-adjustable steering wheel, allowing you to find your perfect driving position with ease. Memory settings for the driver's seat and steering wheel are also standard, so you don't have to readjust every time you hop in. The rear seats are equally impressive, offering generous legroom and headroom, and they're also heated, making them a treat for passengers on chilly days. The use of premium materials throughout the cabin is evident. Soft-touch plastics, elegant wood-tone or metallic accents, and meticulous stitching on the seats and dashboard create a sophisticated and high-quality feel. The dual-panel panoramic moonroof is standard and stretches almost the entire length of the roof, flooding the cabin with light and making it feel even more expansive. It’s a feature that really adds to the premium ambiance. The center console is well-designed, with intuitive controls and ample storage space. Nissan's "Zero Gravity" inspired seating is a key selling point, designed to reduce fatigue on long drives, and honestly, they live up to the hype. The attention to detail is superb, from the ambient lighting that adds a warm glow in the evening to the quietness of the cabin, which is well-insulated against road and wind noise. This level of comfort and luxury makes the 2017 Murano Platinum a fantastic choice for long road trips or simply making your daily commute feel more enjoyable.

Technology and Infotainment: Staying Connected and Entertained

When you're driving the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum, you're not just driving; you're staying connected and entertained thanks to a robust suite of technology. Nissan packed this trim with features that were cutting-edge for its time and still hold up pretty well today. Dominating the center console is a 7-inch color touchscreen display, which serves as the hub for the infotainment system. This system includes Bluetooth streaming audio and hands-free calling, a feature that's now pretty standard but was a big deal back then. SiriusXM Satellite Radio is also included, giving you access to a vast array of channels. For navigation, the Platinum trim comes standard with Nissan's Navigation System, which is integrated seamlessly into the touchscreen. It’s intuitive and easy to use, guiding you to your destination with clear, concise directions. The system also includes SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link, providing real-time updates on traffic conditions, weather forecasts, and more. Voice recognition capabilities allow you to control various functions, like the navigation or audio system, without taking your hands off the wheel, which is a huge safety plus. You'll also find dual USB ports and auxiliary audio input jacks, ensuring all your devices can be connected. The audio system itself is a premium Bose® Audio System with 11 speakers, including a subwoofer. This isn't just any speaker setup; it's tuned to the Murano's cabin for an immersive and high-fidelity listening experience, whether you're rocking out to your favorite tunes or catching up on podcasts. The rear-seat entertainment system with dual headrest monitors is available on some models or as an option, which is a fantastic feature for keeping passengers, especially kids, entertained on longer journeys. The Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition is standard, allowing you to start the car with the fob in your pocket. Overall, the technology suite in the 2017 Murano Platinum is comprehensive, user-friendly, and adds significant value to the driving experience, making it both convenient and enjoyable.

Performance and Driving Dynamics: Smooth, Capable, and Refined

Under the hood, the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine produces a healthy 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough grunt for merging onto highways, passing slower vehicles, and tackling inclines with confidence. Mated to this V6 is Nissan's Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). Now, CVTs sometimes get a bad rap, but Nissan has refined theirs over the years, and in the Murano, it's tuned for smoothness and efficiency. It delivers power seamlessly, mimicking traditional automatic gearshifts under hard acceleration, but generally keeping revs low for a quiet, relaxed cruising experience. The Murano Platinum comes standard with All-Wheel Drive (AWD). This system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear wheels as needed, providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions, from rain-slicked roads to light snow. Even if you live in a warmer climate, the AWD system can improve handling by optimizing grip during cornering. The ride quality is a major highlight. Nissan engineers focused heavily on comfort, and it shows. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, delivering a plush and composed ride that rivals luxury brands. It glides over rough pavement, isolating occupants from the harshness of the road. While it's not a sports car, the steering is responsive enough for its class, and the brakes are confident and provide good stopping power. The overall driving experience is refined and relaxing. The cabin is remarkably quiet at speed, further enhancing the sense of comfort and luxury. For those looking for a capable, comfortable, and smooth-riding crossover that doesn't feel strained when you need power, the 2017 Murano Platinum, with its potent V6 and sophisticated AWD system, is an excellent choice. It strikes a great balance between everyday drivability and a more premium feel.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind on the Road

When you're behind the wheel of the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum, Nissan wants you to feel secure, and they've equipped this top-tier model with a comprehensive array of safety features. Beyond the standard suite of airbags (front, side-impact, and roof-mounted curtain airbags for all rows), anti-lock brakes (ABS), and electronic stability control, the Platinum trim comes with advanced driver-assistance systems that significantly enhance safety and awareness. One of the most impressive features is the Intelligent Around View® Monitor. This system uses multiple cameras to create a virtual 360-degree bird's-eye view of your vehicle's surroundings, displayed on the infotainment screen. It's an absolute lifesaver when parking in tight spaces, maneuvering in crowded parking lots, or navigating off-road. Complementing this is the Moving Object Detection (MOD) system, which alerts you if it detects movement around the vehicle while the Around View Monitor is active. This adds another layer of vigilance. The Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system uses radar to detect vehicles in your blind spots on either side, providing an audible and visual alert if you signal to change lanes. Similarly, the Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space, which is incredibly useful given the Murano's relatively high rear beltline. For added convenience and safety, Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) is also standard on the Platinum. This system can automatically adjust your speed to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing the need for constant pedal adjustments in highway traffic. While adaptive cruise control wasn't as widespread in 2017 as it is today, Nissan's ICC was a very capable system for its time. Other notable safety features include front and rear sonar parking sensors, which provide audible warnings as you get closer to obstacles, and a driver attention alert system that can detect signs of drowsy driving. The combination of passive safety (airbags, structure) and active safety (driver aids) in the 2017 Murano Platinum provides a high level of confidence for drivers and passengers alike, making it a secure choice for families.

Conclusion: Why the 2017 Murano Platinum Still Impresses

So, guys, after breaking down the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum, it's clear why this crossover continues to be a sought-after vehicle. It masterfully blends striking exterior design with a truly luxurious and comfortable interior, packed with technology that enhances both convenience and enjoyment. The powerful V6 engine and refined drivetrain provide a smooth, confident driving experience, while the standard AWD adds an extra layer of security for all conditions. Nissan truly nailed the upscale feel with the Platinum trim, offering premium leather, heated and cooled seats, and that stunning panoramic moonroof, all coming together to create an environment that feels genuinely special. The advanced safety features, like the Intelligent Around View Monitor and Blind Spot Warning, offer peace of mind, making it a practical choice for families and daily commuters alike. While it might not have the latest infotainment gizmos found in brand-new models, the 2017 Murano Platinum offers a compelling package that delivers on comfort, style, and features at a value that's hard to beat on the used market. If you're looking for a mid-size crossover that prioritizes a refined driving experience, a premium cabin, and distinctive styling, the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum is definitely worth considering. It’s a testament to Nissan's ability to create a vehicle that feels upscale without necessarily commanding a luxury brand price tag. It’s a smart buy for anyone who values comfort, a quiet ride, and a touch of elegance in their daily drive. Thanks for joining me on this deep dive! What are your thoughts on the 2017 Murano Platinum? Let me know in the comments below!