Skip advert
Advertisement

Nissan Murano

New look means 350Z-powered SUV is bolder than ever.

Overall Auto Express rating

3.0

How we review cars
Find your Nissan Murano
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

Nissan has tried to offer enough creature comforts and gadgets to make the Murano a real contender. Yet without a more frugal and sensible diesel option, it won’t succeed in the UK. The ride and handling could be better, as could the car’s off-road ability. It’s still a distinctive choice, but until the company addresses its shortcomings, it can’t expect to tempt buyers.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Standing out from the crowd has always been the Nissan Murano’s strength. With a bold shape and eye-catching details, the SUV’s looks have made up for some dynamic shortcomings.

Now Nissan has refreshed the package with a promise that this model will have the substance to back its style. At the front there’s a fresh grille and headlamps, while the rear gets Qashqai-influenced tail-lights and a more defined screen. A sloping roof, jutting side skirts and wheelarches make the Murano more modern and aggressive.

Nissan has also reworked things inside, introducing plush leather trim, a plethora of wheel-mounted controls and more gizmos than ever.

Mechanically, it’s a case of evolution, not revolution. The V6 petrol engine from the 350Z coupé remains, although it now boasts an extra 22bhp and five per cent more torque. Despite this, CO2 emissions and fuel economy are claimed to be improved – but at 261g/km and 25.9mpg respectively, both figures are still woeful.

The Murano also packs a few new gadgets, in the form of a powered tailgate, a remote control seat folding mechanism and a pair of parking assist cameras – one for the rear and, ingeniously, one that points at the offside front wheel.

Yet the newcomer can’t quite cut it on the move. The suspension is too hard for all but the smoothest of roads and the gearbox is neither smooth nor responsive.

Although the engine makes a pleasing snarl, it feels short on power, while the steering is devoid of feel and feedback.

Within the next two years, there is the prospect of a diesel – and this would address the Murano’s high fuel consumption. For now, even though it comes with an impressive array of gadgets and looks the part, the car doesn’t convince either as a sporty SUV or a capable off-roader.

Rival: Lexus RX400h
Hybrid SUV holds far more appeal to green motorists than the Murano. RX is also a better all-rounder, with its fashionable, head-turning looks and excellent refinement.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £3,219 off RRP*Used from £10,695
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £15,255Avg. savings £1,864 off RRP*Used from £8,495
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £3,158 off RRP*
Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,785Avg. savings £4,614 off RRP*Used from £8,960
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

BYD gives up on EV grant, and offers five years of maintenance instead
BYD Dolphin - front cornering

BYD gives up on EV grant, and offers five years of maintenance instead

With a Government grant looking unlikely, BYD has announced a new warranty and maintenance scheme to tempt buyers
News
5 Aug 2025
Car Deal of the Day: MGS5 EV for under £200 a month is a true bargain
MGS5 EV - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: MGS5 EV for under £200 a month is a true bargain

The ZS EV’s replacement is an excellent small electric SUV, and our Deal of the Day for August 4
News
4 Aug 2025
Fiat and Abarth electric cars plummet in price as brand reintroduces ‘E-Grant’
Fiat 500e - front cornering

Fiat and Abarth electric cars plummet in price as brand reintroduces ‘E-Grant’

Fiat offers sizable discounts as it awaits confirmation that its EVs are eligible for the new Government grant
News
5 Aug 2025