Overview

The third-generation Murano’s exterior was designed to slip through the wind like a sports car while utilizing the same 111.2-inch wheelbase as its predecessor. While similar in dimensions to the previous generation Murano, the new design is longer by 2.5 inches, wider by 1.3 inches, and shorter height-wise by half an inch while still retaining the interior dimensions of a premium SUV. Not only does the all-new 2015 Nissan^® Murano with its breakthrough exterior design look like nothing else in the mid-SUV segment, its 0.31 coefficient of drag is the same as many contemporary sports cars.

The overall aerodynamic improvement since the last Murano is 16.3% over the 2014 version. The unique “floating” roof design is thanks to the refined A-pillars and triangular-shaped D-pillars and large glass area that appear disconnected from the roof, which help visually lighten the cabin. The results give the 2015 Murano a lower, lighter profile and an inspired contrast to the bulkiness of a traditional SUV.

The new Murano features an approximate 130-pound overall weight reduction, which when combined with optimized aerodynamics, low rolling resistance tires, engine and transmission enhancements and other drivetrain improvements results in a 20% gain in combined fuel economy versus the previous generation Murano.

The new Murano will be offered in eight different models: S, SV, SL and Platinum, each available in front- or all-wheel drive. All of the models will be assembled in Canton, Mississippi and offered in eight available colors: Pacific Sunset, Java Metallic, Magnetic Black, Brilliant Silver, Gun Metallic, Cayenne Red, Arctic Blue Metallic and Pearl White.

Exterior

“The “V-Motion” front end...merges with the muscular contours of the hood and works in concert with the boomerang-shaped headlights to give Murano its sleek, symmetrical profile.”

The fluid styling showcases a number of new Nissan design cues w ith the “V-Motion” front end that merges with the muscular contours of the hood. I t works in concert with the boomerang-shaped headlights to give Murano its sleek, symmetrical profile along with the rakish boomerang taillights that are yet another new Nissan des ign feature. The available high-efficiency LED headlamps create a light pattern that replicates natural daylight. The standard daytime running lights dramatically arch around the headlights and provide a low-intensity, but highly visible light. The body design is sli ghtly lower, wider and longer, enhancing the emotion of the forms, but still fits into crossove r parameters.

The LED-intensive lighting features are standard on the new Mur ano. LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), LED taillights, side rearview mirrors with integrated LED turn signals along with available front LED headlights provide bright, yet e nergy-conserving lighting. Rounding out the exterior features are a power rear liftgate wi th rear spoiler, available Power Panoramic Moonroof and available 20-inch machined aluminum-alloy wheels.

Interor

The interior of the Murano is equally as stunning as the well-designed exterior with a low instrument panel, long and wide windshield, and added comforts that produce a social lounge feel. The instrument panel height is lower than on previous models to accommodate the larger windshield and create a spacious, open feel in the cabin. The center console is also low and wide in order to allow conversation between the front and rear seats easier than ever. The cargo area will hold four large suitcases with the rear seat folded down, and all seat configurations can be accomplished through the rear door without walking around to the other side of the vehicle.

In the center, there is a standard 7-inch, high-resolution color display with multi-touch control for the Nissan Advanced Drive-Assist™ display. There is also an 8-inch center color display option for drivers, offering multi-touch control of the NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps. To keep operation simple, there are now only 10 audio and navigation buttons for a much more user-friendly experience, inspired by smartphone intuition. Bose^® audio systems are available with nine speakers plus dual subwoofers.

Other options include HD radio and SiriusXM® available with monthly service subscriptions. NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps uses hands-free technology, the driver’s smartphone and the Nissan display screen to help the driver stay in touch without having to touch anything. The interior aesthetics are greatly improved with an available power panoramic moonroof that is 40% larger, shedding more light on the rear seats during the day and night and adding to the open and social feel of the vehicle.

Standard in the new Murano are Nissan’s advanced zero gravity seats, which have been designed with ergonomic technology to help provide continuous support from hips to back, help reduce fatigue and increase comfort for the driver by allowing him or her to sit in a neutral position. The rear seat area includes a rear zero gravity outboard seat design, available high-speed seat heating and rear USB connection port. Rear seat knee room has increased by 1.4 inches (versus the previous Murano) due to a slimmer front seat seatback design. Leather appointed seats and steering wheel are optional as well as front and back heated seats. The space and flexibility of the Nissan Murano’s interior also comes with a seamless way to use it. Rear-seat passengers can get in and out in a snap with easier ingress and egress. In back, cargo volume can be increased to nearly 70 cubic feet by collapsing the 60/40 split rear seats. The new Murano can be outfitted with conveniently located automatic controls which allow access to the cargo options from the dash or from the rear cargo area.

Other Murano perks that come standard on the interior include: dual zone automatic temperature control, Nissan Intelligent Key^®, push button ignition, steering wheel position memory, driver seat and outside mirror memory, and remote engine start with intelligent climate control.