2023 Nissan Murano Review: Stylish SUV, Smart Tech

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2023 Nissan Murano Review: A Stylish and Tech-Savvy SUV

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Nissan Murano – a mid-size SUV that's been turning heads with its sleek design and comfortable ride. The Murano has always been a bit of a standout in the crowded SUV market, known for its premium feel and sophisticated styling. So, is the 2023 model still holding up? Let's find out! In this comprehensive review, we'll cover everything from its performance and interior to its technology and safety features. By the end, you'll know if the Murano is the right SUV for your needs. Buckle up, guys, it's gonna be a ride!

Design and Exterior: A Head-Turner

Alright, let's talk looks. The 2023 Nissan Murano keeps its reputation as a stylish SUV. The design is all about smooth lines, a floating roof, and Nissan's signature V-motion grille. It's a look that's aged gracefully, still appearing modern and elegant. You won't find the boxy, rugged look of some competitors here. Instead, the Murano goes for a more refined, upscale vibe. The LED headlights and taillights add a touch of sophistication, and the available 20-inch wheels give it a more commanding presence on the road. Guys, it's a car that looks good pulling up to the valet!

The exterior color options are pretty cool, offering a range from classic blacks and whites to some bolder choices like Deep Blue Pearl and Scarlet Ember Tintcoat. The overall design emphasizes aerodynamics, which not only looks good but also contributes to a quieter ride. You can tell Nissan put a lot of thought into the details, creating a car that stands out without being overly flashy. The Murano aims for a premium feel, and its exterior design definitely plays a part in achieving that. The curves, the grille, and the lighting all work together to create a cohesive and attractive package. The Murano isn't trying to be the most aggressive-looking SUV on the market; instead, it's all about elegance and subtle sophistication, making it a great choice for those who value style.

Detailed Exterior Features:

  • Floating Roof Design: Gives the Murano a sleek and modern look.
  • V-Motion Grille: Nissan's signature design element.
  • LED Headlights and Taillights: Enhance visibility and style.
  • Available 20-inch Wheels: Add a touch of sportiness and presence.
  • Aerodynamic Design: Contributes to a quieter and more fuel-efficient ride.

Interior and Comfort: Luxury in Motion

Stepping inside the 2023 Nissan Murano is like entering a well-appointed living room. The interior design is where the Murano really shines, boasting high-quality materials and a focus on comfort. The seats are plush and supportive, especially the Zero Gravity front seats, designed to reduce fatigue on long drives. The cabin feels spacious, offering ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The overall layout is clean and uncluttered, with a focus on user-friendliness.

The materials used throughout the interior feel premium, with soft-touch surfaces and available leather upholstery. The Murano isn't trying to be overly sporty; instead, it aims for a relaxed and luxurious atmosphere. The design is all about creating a comfortable space where you can unwind. The dashboard is modern, with an easy-to-read instrument cluster and a user-friendly infotainment system. The panoramic moonroof (available on higher trims) floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the feeling of spaciousness. The Murano truly delivers on its promise of a comfortable and upscale driving experience. From the supportive seats to the quiet cabin, everything is designed to make your journey as pleasant as possible. The attention to detail is evident, with carefully chosen materials and a thoughtful layout that prioritizes both comfort and style. The Murano’s interior makes it an excellent choice for daily commutes and longer road trips alike. It's a place you actually want to spend time.

Key Interior Features:

  • Zero Gravity Front Seats: Designed for optimal comfort and reduced fatigue.
  • Spacious Cabin: Ample legroom and headroom for all passengers.
  • Premium Materials: Soft-touch surfaces and available leather upholstery.
  • User-Friendly Layout: Clean and intuitive design.
  • Panoramic Moonroof (available): Enhances the sense of space and light.

Performance and Driving Experience: Smooth Operator

Under the hood, the 2023 Nissan Murano packs a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a smooth continuously variable transmission (CVT). This combination provides brisk acceleration and a refined driving experience. The CVT is tuned to minimize the rubber-band feel that some people dislike, offering a more natural and responsive feel. The Murano is not designed to be a sporty SUV; instead, it prioritizes a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, making it a great choice for daily driving and highway cruising. You'll find the steering to be light and easy, making it maneuverable in city traffic. Overall, the Murano's performance is all about providing a smooth, quiet, and effortless driving experience. It's not the fastest SUV in its class, but it excels at providing a comfortable and refined ride.

The Murano is available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The AWD system provides added confidence and stability, especially in inclement weather conditions. The V6 engine provides more than enough power for most driving situations, allowing for confident passing and merging. The CVT transmission does a good job of keeping the engine in its optimal power band, ensuring smooth and efficient performance. The Murano's handling is predictable and composed, making it a pleasant car to drive in various conditions. If you're looking for an SUV that offers a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience, the Murano is definitely worth considering. It’s perfect for cruising on the highway or navigating city streets with ease.

Performance Highlights:

  • 3.5-liter V6 Engine: 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque.
  • Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): Smooth and efficient.
  • Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Enhances stability and traction.
  • Comfort-Focused Suspension: Smooth and composed ride.
  • Light Steering: Easy maneuverability.

Technology and Infotainment: Staying Connected

The 2023 Nissan Murano comes equipped with a decent array of tech features, keeping you connected and entertained on the go. The infotainment system is centered around an 8-inch touchscreen display, which is easy to see and use. The system includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. You can access your favorite apps, make calls, and listen to music directly from the touchscreen. The Murano also offers a built-in navigation system, which is helpful for finding your way around. The sound system is pretty good, delivering clear and balanced audio. For those who want a premium audio experience, there's an available Bose audio system. Overall, the tech in the Murano is user-friendly and functional, providing all the essential features you need without being overly complicated.

Nissan has also included a range of driver-assistance technologies to enhance safety. These include features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. These features are designed to help you avoid accidents and make your driving experience safer. The Murano's technology package strikes a good balance between providing useful features and keeping things easy to manage. The infotainment system is responsive, and the integration of smartphone apps is seamless. The available driver-assistance features provide an extra layer of safety and peace of mind. The Murano doesn't try to overwhelm you with tech; instead, it focuses on providing the features that matter most in a user-friendly way. It keeps you connected and protected without sacrificing ease of use.

Key Tech Features:

  • 8-inch Touchscreen Display: Easy-to-use infotainment system.
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Smartphone integration.
  • Built-in Navigation: Helps you find your way.
  • Available Bose Audio System: For premium sound quality.
  • Driver-Assistance Technologies: Includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning.

Safety Features: Keeping You Safe

Safety is a top priority in the 2023 Nissan Murano, with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. The Murano comes standard with Nissan's Safety Shield 360, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). This includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. These features work together to help prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of a collision.

The Murano has earned good safety ratings from both the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), which is a testament to its strong safety performance. The structural design of the Murano is also designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a collision, further enhancing passenger protection. Nissan's commitment to safety is evident in the Murano's design, engineering, and the inclusion of advanced safety technologies. The combination of active and passive safety features makes the Murano a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals alike. The Murano provides drivers with added confidence on the road by actively assisting them in potentially dangerous situations.

Safety Highlights:

  • Nissan Safety Shield 360: Standard suite of ADAS.
  • Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: Helps prevent collisions.
  • Blind-Spot Warning: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots.
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns you of approaching vehicles when reversing.
  • High Safety Ratings: IIHS and NHTSA ratings demonstrate safety performance.

Trim Levels and Pricing: Choosing Your Murano

The 2023 Nissan Murano is available in four trim levels: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. Each trim level builds upon the previous one, adding more features and premium touches. The S trim is the base model and comes with a good level of standard equipment, including the V6 engine, CVT transmission, and the Safety Shield 360 suite. The SV trim adds features like a power-adjustable driver's seat and upgraded infotainment system. The SL trim further enhances the luxury experience with features like leather upholstery and a premium sound system. The Platinum trim is the top-of-the-line model, offering the most luxurious features, including a panoramic moonroof and unique interior trim. Pricing varies depending on the trim level and options selected.

It’s always a good idea to check Nissan's website or visit your local dealer for the most up-to-date pricing information. Choosing the right trim level depends on your needs and budget. The S trim offers excellent value for money and provides all the essential features. The SV trim adds some nice upgrades without breaking the bank. The SL trim is a great choice if you want a more luxurious experience. And the Platinum trim is the ultimate in Murano luxury, with all the bells and whistles. Regardless of which trim you choose, you'll be getting a stylish, comfortable, and well-equipped SUV. Consider your must-have features and budget when deciding which trim best fits your lifestyle.

2023 Murano Trim Levels:

  • S: Base model with essential features.
  • SV: Adds upgrades like a power-adjustable driver's seat.
  • SL: Enhances the luxury with features like leather upholstery.
  • Platinum: Top-of-the-line with premium features like a panoramic moonroof.

Fuel Economy: Efficiency Matters

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the 2023 Nissan Murano offers competitive numbers for its class. The EPA estimates that the Murano gets around 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway with front-wheel drive (FWD). With all-wheel drive (AWD), the figures are slightly lower, at 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. These are respectable numbers for a mid-size SUV with a V6 engine. The Murano's fuel economy makes it a practical choice for daily driving and longer trips. While it might not be the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, it offers a good balance of performance and efficiency. You can expect to get decent mileage, saving you money at the pump. The Murano's fuel economy contributes to its overall appeal as a versatile and practical vehicle for everyday use.

It's worth noting that the actual fuel economy can vary depending on your driving habits and the conditions in which you drive. If you drive primarily in the city or tend to accelerate and brake aggressively, you may see lower fuel economy numbers. However, with moderate driving habits, you should be able to achieve the EPA estimates. The Murano's fuel efficiency is a positive aspect, making it a viable option for those who want a comfortable and stylish SUV without sacrificing too much at the gas pump.

Fuel Economy Specs:

  • FWD: 20 MPG city / 28 MPG highway
  • AWD: 20 MPG city / 28 MPG highway

Pros and Cons: Weighing Your Options

Alright, let's break down the 2023 Nissan Murano into its pros and cons. This will help you get a clear picture of what the Murano has to offer and whether it’s a good fit for you.

Pros:

  • Stylish Design: The Murano's sleek and modern design sets it apart from the competition.
  • Comfortable Interior: The interior offers a premium feel with comfortable seats and ample space.
  • Smooth Ride: The suspension provides a comfortable and composed ride.
  • User-Friendly Tech: The infotainment system is easy to use and integrates smartphones seamlessly.
  • Standard Safety Features: Nissan Safety Shield 360 provides a comprehensive suite of safety technologies.

Cons:

  • Base Engine Only: Only one engine option available.
  • Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is good, but not class-leading.
  • Cargo Space: Cargo space is competitive, but not the most generous in its class.
  • Price: Can be a bit pricier compared to some competitors.

Final Verdict: Is the 2023 Murano Worth It?

So, after all of that, what's the verdict on the 2023 Nissan Murano? Overall, the Murano is a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. It excels in style, comfort, and user-friendly technology. Its design makes it a real head-turner, and the interior is a great place to spend time. The smooth ride and advanced safety features are also big positives.

However, it's not perfect. The lack of engine options and the slightly higher price point compared to some competitors are things to consider. The cargo space is decent, but not the best in its class. In the end, the Murano is a great choice if you prioritize style, comfort, and a refined driving experience. If you’re looking for a sporty SUV or need maximum cargo space, you might want to consider other options. But if you want a stylish, comfortable, and well-equipped SUV, the 2023 Nissan Murano is definitely worth a look! It is a great blend of style, practicality, and technology that makes it an appealing choice for a wide range of drivers. Go test drive one and see for yourself, guys! I hope this review has been helpful. Catch you on the next one!