The striking, third-generation Nissan Murano serves up a decidedly premium interior feel. While the curvy, swoopy concept-car like styling impedes outward visibility, the Murano is otherwise easy to live with. Interior accommodations are generous, with easy access and mostly simple-to-use controls, including a well-designed touch-screen infotainment system. The plush cabin is impressively finished and quiet.
Although the interior might scream "luxury," driving the Murano proves to be rather mundane. Cornering is uninvolving and devoid of sportiness, limited by overly light steering that detracts from a driver's confidence on twisty roads. The Murano ultimately proved secure at its emergency handling limits, but it didn't shine. Likewise, ride comfort is decent enough but doesn't stand out.
The Murano has plenty of oomph on tap from its powerful V6, and the continuously variable transmission is one of the better CVTs out there. While the gearless tranny works well when you're loafing around town, it lets the engine rev high for protracted periods during hard acceleration, forcing you to listen to unwanted engine noise. Fuel economy averaged 21 mpg overall in our tests, typical for this class.
Higher trims of the Murano are available with advanced safety electronics, such as forward-collision warning, and in-cabin electronics and infotainment connectivity are comprehensive. Going well beyond a basic backup camera, the clever optional 360-degree exterior view is a welcomed convenience while parking.