Nissan Murano Generations: A Complete Guide

Hey guys! Ever wondered about the different generations of the Nissan Murano? This stylish crossover SUV has been around for a while, and there have been some cool changes over the years. So, let's dive into a comprehensive guide that covers each generation, highlighting what makes them unique and why they might be the perfect ride for you. We'll explore everything from the design and features to the performance and overall driving experience. Buckle up, because we're about to take a journey through the history of the Nissan Murano!

First Generation Nissan Murano (2003-2007)

The first generation Nissan Murano, introduced in 2003 as a 2003 model, marked Nissan's entry into the then-burgeoning crossover SUV market. This generation immediately stood out with its distinctive and futuristic design, a departure from the more traditional boxy SUVs of the time. The Murano's sleek lines, sloping roofline, and bold front fascia made it an instant head-turner. Nissan aimed to blend the comfort and driving dynamics of a sedan with the practicality and space of an SUV, and the first-generation Murano largely succeeded in this endeavor. Under the hood, you'd typically find a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which provided ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. This engine was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), a relatively new technology at the time, which offered smooth and efficient performance. Inside, the Murano boasted a well-appointed cabin with comfortable seating and a user-friendly layout. Available features included leather upholstery, a premium Bose audio system, and a navigation system. The first generation Murano also prioritized safety, offering features like anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. One of the key selling points of the first-generation Murano was its car-like driving experience. The independent suspension system provided a comfortable ride, and the responsive steering made it enjoyable to drive. The Murano also offered a decent amount of cargo space, making it practical for families and those who needed to haul gear. However, the CVT transmission did receive some criticism for its sometimes-unconventional feel, and fuel economy, while decent, wasn't class-leading. Despite these minor drawbacks, the first-generation Nissan Murano was a resounding success, establishing the Murano as a key player in the crossover SUV segment. It paved the way for future generations and helped solidify Nissan's reputation for innovative design and engineering. If you're looking for a used crossover with a distinctive style and a comfortable ride, the first-generation Murano is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to have the CVT transmission inspected, as this is a known potential issue in older models.

Second Generation Nissan Murano (2008-2014)

The second generation Nissan Murano, spanning the model years 2008 to 2014, represented a significant evolution of the original Murano's design and features. While retaining the distinctive styling cues that made the first generation so popular, the second generation Murano incorporated more refined lines, a bolder front grille, and updated lighting elements. This generation aimed to elevate the Murano's premium feel and further solidify its position in the competitive crossover SUV market. Under the hood, the second generation Murano continued to offer a 3.5-liter V6 engine, but it was updated to produce even more power and efficiency. The CVT transmission was also refined, offering smoother and more responsive performance. Nissan also introduced an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option for enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. Inside, the second generation Murano saw significant improvements in materials quality and design. The cabin was more spacious and comfortable, with premium features like leather upholstery, heated seats, and a panoramic sunroof available. The dashboard and center console were redesigned with a more modern and user-friendly layout. Technology was also a major focus, with features like a navigation system, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth connectivity becoming increasingly common. Safety features were also enhanced, with the addition of features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert on higher trim levels. One of the most notable aspects of the second generation Murano was its emphasis on a smooth and comfortable ride. The suspension was tuned to provide a more refined driving experience, and the cabin was well-insulated to minimize road noise. The Murano also offered a decent amount of cargo space, making it practical for families and road trips. However, some critics noted that the Murano's handling wasn't as sporty as some of its competitors, and the fuel economy, while improved, still wasn't class-leading. Despite these minor drawbacks, the second generation Nissan Murano was a critical and commercial success, building upon the foundation laid by the first generation. It offered a compelling blend of style, comfort, and features, making it a popular choice for buyers in the crossover SUV segment. If you're looking for a used crossover with a more modern design and a comfortable ride, the second generation Murano is an excellent option. Just be sure to check the maintenance history and look for any signs of CVT transmission issues, as this is a common concern in this generation.

Third Generation Nissan Murano (2015-2022)

The third generation Nissan Murano, which debuted in 2015 and continued through the 2022 model year, brought a bold and dramatic redesign to the crossover SUV. This generation embraced a more futuristic and aerodynamic aesthetic, with sharp lines, a distinctive floating roof design, and a prominent V-motion grille. The third generation Murano aimed to stand out from the crowd and appeal to buyers seeking a stylish and sophisticated SUV. Under the hood, the third generation Murano continued to be powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which provided ample power for most driving situations. The CVT transmission was further refined to offer smoother and more responsive performance. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available as an option. Inside, the third generation Murano boasted a luxurious and well-appointed cabin. High-quality materials, comfortable seating, and a spacious layout created a premium feel. Available features included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium Bose audio system. Technology was a major focus, with a large touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. One of the key highlights of the third generation Murano was its emphasis on comfort and refinement. The suspension was tuned to provide a smooth and quiet ride, and the cabin was well-insulated from road noise. The Murano also offered a decent amount of cargo space, making it practical for families and everyday use. However, some critics noted that the Murano's handling wasn't as sporty as some of its competitors, and the fuel economy, while respectable, wasn't class-leading. The third generation Nissan Murano received several updates throughout its lifespan, including refreshed styling, improved technology features, and enhanced safety equipment. It remained a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish and comfortable crossover SUV with a premium feel. If you're in the market for a used crossover with a modern design and a host of features, the third generation Murano is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to check the vehicle history and maintenance records, and pay attention to any potential issues with the CVT transmission.

Fourth Generation Nissan Murano (2023-Present)

The fourth generation Nissan Murano, expected to arrive in 2023, is generating a lot of buzz and anticipation. While details are still emerging, industry experts and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the official unveiling. It's widely expected that the fourth generation Murano will build upon the successes of its predecessors, offering a blend of style, comfort, and technology that appeals to crossover SUV buyers. Based on spy shots and industry rumors, the fourth generation Murano is likely to feature a redesigned exterior with a more modern and aggressive look. The front fascia is expected to incorporate Nissan's latest V-motion grille design, and the overall silhouette may be sleeker and more aerodynamic. The rear of the vehicle may also feature updated taillights and a revised bumper design. Inside, the fourth generation Murano is expected to boast a completely redesigned cabin with a focus on premium materials and advanced technology. A large touchscreen infotainment system is likely to be the centerpiece of the dashboard, and features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, wireless charging, and a premium audio system are expected to be available. Nissan is also likely to incorporate its latest suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Under the hood, the fourth generation Murano may continue to offer a 3.5-liter V6 engine, but it's also possible that Nissan could introduce a new powertrain option, such as a turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a hybrid system. The CVT transmission is likely to be refined further to provide smoother and more efficient performance. Overall, the fourth generation Nissan Murano is expected to be a significant step forward for the model, offering a compelling blend of style, comfort, technology, and performance. It's poised to compete with other popular crossover SUVs in the market and attract buyers seeking a premium and well-rounded vehicle. As more information becomes available, we'll be sure to update this guide with the latest details. So stay tuned, guys, because the future of the Nissan Murano looks bright!

In conclusion, the Nissan Murano has a rich history of innovation and style. From its groundbreaking first generation to the highly anticipated fourth generation, the Murano has consistently pushed the boundaries of crossover SUV design and technology. Whether you're a long-time Murano enthusiast or a first-time buyer, understanding the different generations can help you make an informed decision and find the perfect Murano for your needs. So, which generation is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below! Remember to do your research, check vehicle history reports, and consider your individual needs and preferences when choosing a used vehicle. Happy driving!"