Nissan Murano

Described as a fusion between an SUV and a sports saloon, the Nissan Murano crossover SUV boasts striking design with its aerodynamic profile and sports car-like performance.Described as a fusion between an SUV and a sports saloon, the Nissan Murano crossover SUV boasts striking design with its aerodynamic profile and sports car-like performance.

Nissan has been very open about its plans to finally launch its Murano crossover locally. And following an extensive ad campaign and shopping mall appearances, the promise has finally been fulfilled.

"Murano is an SUV with the soul of a sports car," said Gerhard Fourie, Nissan SA general manager for marketing and planning. "(It) combines the versatility of an SUV with the comfort of a premium sedan and the soul of a sports car."

This SUVs bold, sporty look is enhanced by twin exhaust pipes, 18-inch alloy wheels, body coloured bumpers, dominant chrome grille and bi-xenon headlamps. Its wide track and long (2,8 m) wheelbase add a more rugged and powerful element to its streamlined design.

The Murano is powered by a detuned version of the same transverse 3,5-litre d-o-h-c 24-valve V6 engine that does duty in the 350Z sports car. Its maximum power output of 172 kW is available at 6 000 r/min, while the maximum torque of 318 N.m kicks in at 3 600 r/min.

A "sports car soul" means it accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in under nine seconds, and Murano is capable of a blistering 200-km/h top speed.

The engine has a lightweight aluminium block and cylinder head, and uses sequential multi-point electronic fuel injection.

An X-tronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is used for smoother and quieter operation that promises better fuel economy over traditional automatic transmissions. A six-speed manual mode is available on the CVT gearbox for those demanding a more engaging ride experience.

Nissan’s CVT transmission has "near infinite ratios" due to its fixed-length metal drive belt, ensuring optimal torque is sent to the drive wheels. Ordinarily, the Murano is front-wheel driven, but it is able to cross varying surfaces with the All-Mode four-wheel drive system activated. Permanent all-wheel drive can also be engaged for more demanding surfaces.

The independent front and multi-link rear suspension systems are claimed to minimise vibration while offering high levels of sportiness and car-like handling. Yet, befitting its off-road claims, the Murano has a ground clearance of 180 mm and approach and departure angles of 28 and 25 degrees.

The Murano’s braking system uses ventilated disc brakes at all four wheels and features ABS with brake assist and EBD (electronic brake force distribution). The vehicle also comes standard with VDC (vehicle dynamic control), with Active Brake Limited Slip.

The interior is designed for easy use, and is claimed to have class-leading rear passenger space. The reclining rear seatbacks can be folded forward with a one-touch operation to create a fully flat floor, while the rear seat also splits 60/40 for easy loading.

Standard features include automatic air conditioning, a BOSE six-CD changer with speed sensitive volume adjustment, a leather steering wheel with satellite controls for the audio and cruise control systems, heated front seats, electric driver’s seat adjustment, power sunroof and windows with anti-trap function, automatic anti-dazzle interior mirror and a remote central locking door system with keyless entry.

Aluminium detailing adds extra style to the centre console, the area around the gearshift, the steering wheel spokes and the door trim.

On the safety front, the Murano is equipped with six airbags (front and side bags for the front occupants and curtain airbags), Isofix child seat anchors and active front headrests.

Included in the R379 100 price-tag is a three-year / 100 000 km warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000 km.