2009 Nissan Murano SL

We liked what we saw when Nissan rolled out its second-generation Murano, featuring sleeker lines that remain unmistakably true to the vehicle's stylish origins.

There are little changes in the known formula: The 2009 Murano rides on the same 111.2-inch wheelbase as its predecessor, while width and height grow only slightly. The biggest difference is the nearly one-inch increase in length.

Besides the cleaner look, the exterior gets a new front fascia with a large chrome grille and wide headlights. Inside, Nissan transforms the surroundings to an environment that is warm and modern, with simple, easy-to-navigate controls, abundant storage and good build quality.

But the best changes come in the driving quality. The 3.5-liter V6, massaged to produce an extra 25 hp, is mated to Nissan's second-generation continuously variable transmission. Normally we bemoan CVTs, but Nissan's unit impresses with its fluid operation and adaptive shift control that does a good job of simulating stepped gears.

Ride quality is improved, thanks to the stiffer chassis and new suspension for a confident feel and controlled body roll. Expressway runs are stable and quiet, while in-town motoring is comfortable and well dampened over rough goings. Dive into a corner to discover strong brakes and among the best steering response in the class--reminiscent of the old car.

We were fans of the first Murano, and the improvements to the new car give Nissan's original crossover a strong second coming. Even in a crowded crossover field, the Murano should remain near the top of the class.

© Source: autoweek
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Full Test 2009 Nissan Murano LE

As the 2009 Nissan Murano proves, Nissan figured out this whole crossover thing before the rest of us. It's pretty uncommon for a vehicle to actually gather increasing steam when it comes to sales as it gets older, but the Murano has done exactly that. Introduced as a 2004 model, sales of the Nissan Murano have climbed every year since then, reaching 81,000 units in 2006.

Evolution, Not Revolution
Now that the Murano has developed a loyal following, Nissan has been careful to evolve, improve and upgrade the all-new 2009 Murano without compromising the things responsible for its success. As we see it, these things have been the Murano's untraditional exterior style, its ample second-row accommodations and its engaging driving dynamics.

Good Performance
At the test track, the powerful 2009 Murano LE accelerates to 60 mph in 8 seconds flat, while its capable four-wheel disc brakes stop it from 60 mph in just 122 feet. These performance figures place it near the top of its class.

When it comes to handling at the limit, the 4,135-pound Murano circles the skid pad (unimpeded by the stability control, which can't be shut off completely) with 0.79g in lateral grip. Weaving through the slalom field, however, awoke the safety system and it allowed only a pass at 59.2 mph.

A reengineered suspension with lightweight aluminum pieces and a new steering system also make the Murano a willing and surprisingly communicative partner in daily driving. No doubt the combination of these chassis upgrades and a new predictive (not reactive) all-wheel-drive system (first introduced by the 2008 Nissan Rogue) contribute to the Murano's genuine agility and overall feel of predictability. And, contrary to what some might expect from the newly available 20-inch rolling stock (LE model), the 235/50TR20 Toyo Proxes A20 tires don't degrade the ride either.

© Source: edmunds
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Los Angeles Auto Show Preview: 2009 Nissan Murano

LOS ANGELES — Nissan appears to have gently tweaked its 2009 Murano as images of the redesigned crossover hit the Internet in advance of its unveiling at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The second-generation Murano has retained the overall shape and silhouette of the original version, with a few updates such as taillights that jut into the rear hatch and what appears, in some images, to be a panoramic roof. The bulging wheel flares look to be borrowed from the Nissan Rogue and give the Murano more of a muscular appearance.

The new Murano is expected to hit showrooms early next year, with more details forthcoming next week.

What this means to you: No extreme makeover for the Murano on the outside, just a few tweaks here and there. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent

© Source: edmunds
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