2017 Nissan Murano Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

The 2017 Nissan Murano remains one of the highest-rated crossover SUVs in its price category. It excels in all of the most important categories. Not only does the Murano provide plenty of room for a family of five, but it also delivers a graceful performance on the road. There are plenty of drivers who will appreciate the Murano’s edgy styling.

What’s New for 2017?

This year, the Murano’s infotainment system now features Apple CarPlay. A new drowsiness detector is also available as an option.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2017 Nissan Murano – The Pros

1. Lively V-6 Engine

Over the years, Nissan’s VQ Series engine has developed a reputation for being strong and durable. It pumps out a satisfying 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. Even when hauling a full load of passengers, the Murano never begins to feel strained. The punchy crossover recorded a 0-60 time of 7.5 seconds, which is a very competitive performance.

2. Impressive Xtronic Transmission

Many car reviewers like the responsiveness of Nissan’s Xtronic transmission. When attempting to merge onto the freeway, the CVT reacts quickly. It makes the 2017 Nissan Murano incredibly easy to drive. The Xtronic transmission also helps bolster the Murano’s overall fuel economy. You can expect to get a commendable 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the interstate.

3. Quiet & Smooth Ride

While test driving the 2017 Nissan Murano, you will immediately notice its smooth ride. It remains comfortable even on rough pavement. Although the Murano is not the sportiest crossover in the segment, it does feel very composed on the road. Nissan also did a great job of insulating the Murano’s cabin. You will not notice a great deal of wind noise even at highway speeds.

4. All-Wheel Drive

A front-wheel-drive setup comes standard on the new Murano. However, opt for the AWD system if you must face wintry weather. The advanced AWD system helps the Murano to maintain the optimum grip. Even relatively deep snow is not a problem for the Murano. When traveling on a regular day, the system conserves fuel by sending all of the power to the front wheels.

5. Edgy Styling

Nissan designed the 2017 Nissan Murano to have a striking appearance. A unique V-Motion grille and a signature floating roof enable the Murano to grab your attention. Featuring a stylish set of 20-inch wheels, the top-of-the-line Murano Platinum makes a bold statement. LED headlamps further enhance the crossover’s curb appeal. Some of the cool exterior colors include Cayenne Red, Pacific Sunset, and Magnetic Black.

6. Remarkably Comfy Interior

One of the Murano’s best qualities is its ability to keep you comfortable throughout the day. Nissan’s space-age Zero Gravity seats provide superior support while keeping your spine in the ideal anatomically position. There is also an abundance of room on the inside. Your family and friends will love the Murano’s reclining rear seat.

7. Standard Advanced Drive-Assist Display

While behind the wheel of the 2017 Nissan Murano, you will be able to easily access vital information. The standard Advanced Drive-Assist Display is more impressive than the typical trip computer. When traveling out of town, the system’s high-resolution screen displays turn-by-turn driving directions. It can also provide safety alerts and fuel information.

8. Value-Packed S Model

With a starting price of $29,740, the base S model is among the best values in the segment. It is just as comfortable and stylish as the higher trim levels. Some of the standard equipment includes a 7.0-inch touch screen, an Advanced Drive-Assist Display, and a rear-view camera. Like the rest of the 2017 Murano lineup, the base model comes with a 60,000-mile warranty.

9. Nice Trim Packages

Even the mid-level SV model can be equipped with an 11-speaker Bose sound system and a panoramic sunroof. If you want to experience more luxuriousness, the top-of-the-line Platinum model will be the best choice. Not only does it feature heated and ventilated front seats, but it also provides heated rear seats.

10. Five-Star Safety Rating

Aside from the Murano’s five-star safety rating, it also has the ability to stop quickly. Available as an option, the 360-degree Around View Monitor makes it easier for you to maneuver in tight parking areas. Some of the available high-tech driving aids include blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2017 Nissan Murano – The Cons

1. Not a Stronger Off-Road Performer

If you intend to travel on rugged terrain, the 2017 Nissan Murano is not going to get the job done. It does not offer off-road enhancements such as all-terrain tires and skid plates.

2. Limited Towing Abilities

With a maximum towing capacity of only 1,500 pounds, the Murano will not be able to pull a hefty load. This may concern the drivers who need to haul heavy items such as boats and small campers. Nissan’s own Pathfinder is better suited for pulling a trailer.

3. No Optional Sports-Tuned Suspension

Although the Nissan Murano handles quite well, an optional sports-tuned suspension would sharpen its driving dynamics. If you desire an extra level of sportiness, check out a rival such as the high-performance Ford Edge Sport.

How it stacks up to the competition:

Some of the crossovers that compete against the 2017 Nissan Murano include the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport and the Ford Edge. The Murano is arguably more luxurious than both of these vehicles on the inside. It also has a stronger base engine than these competitors.

Conclusion:

The 2017 Nissan Murano continues to shine brightly in the areas that count the most. It is family-friendly and reasonably good on gas. When equipped with all of the available features, the Murano rivals the luxuriousness of a more expensive model. Passenger safety is yet another one of the Murano’s strong points.