This year has seen some excellent automobiles enter the market; one such vehicle is the 2021 Nissan Murano. While the latest Murano continues the third generation of Nissan’s midsize SUV, several enhancements have been made to this year’s model. However, all of the best aspects of last year’s Murano are still here and accounted for. The Murano was released initially back in 2002, with the third generation hitting the market in 2015. With nearly two decades of history behind it, does the 2021 Nissan Murano have what it takes to be a true contender? We believe that it does.
The 2021 Murano is available in four different trim configurations: the S, SV, SL, and Platinum. The S is the base trim for the Murano and starts at an MSRP of $32,510. While it’s not the cheapest SUV in its class, it has an assortment of amenities that make the price tag easier to bear. The SV trim includes a variety of enhancements that lend itself to a far more comfortable driving experience, such as a power-adjustable driver seat, as an example.
The SL trim replaces the 18-inch wheels on the previous two trims with 20-inch wheels, adds leather seating surfaces, and includes an upgraded speaker system courtesy of one of the very best audio companies in the world, Bose. Lastly, the Platinum trim adds premium features such as a dual-pane panoramic moonroof and climate-controlled front seats, among other additions. Because each trim utilizes the same powertrain, the enhancements made to the interior in the aforementioned trims are a welcomed change.
The Sole Powertrain
Fortunately for those who opt for the base model Murano, you’ll be receiving the same powertrain configuration as the one found in the top-of-the-line Premier trim. Furthermore, this isn’t a low-powered 4-cylinder engine either, as this is a properly capable 3.5L V6 that comes paired to an efficient Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). With this powertrain, Nissan has seemingly found the perfect middle-ground offering exceptional performance at a great value.
This solid V6 can produce 260 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque, while the sophisticated transmission helps it achieve excellent EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 20 MPG city and 28 MPG highway in both its front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. For the base model, this engine is a terrific inclusion, and even the customers who opt for the higher-tier trims will not find themselves wishing for an engine with more power.
A Spacious Interior
Upon entering the Murano, you’ll notice how spacious the interior is, along with an elegant vibe should you opt for a trim with luxurious enhancements such as leather seating. The Murano seats five passengers and does so while providing a decent amount of head and legroom no matter where you’re sitting in the cabin. Up in the front row, you’ll have 39.9 inches of headroom, and second-row passengers enjoy a nearly identical 39.8 inches. Legroom measurements share similar results as well, with 40.5-inches for passengers in the front row and 38.7-inches for those in the back.
One of the most notable highlights of the Murano is its ample cargo capacity, which remains true regardless if you’re transporting yourself, or a full cabin of five people. With the seats kept upright, you’ll still have 32.1 cu ft of space, which means you can bring along the entire family, and everyone’s luggage as well. Should you require your Murano to provide you the utmost cargo space, you can fold these seats down, which will then reveal a large 67 cu ft of space.
As previously mentioned, the interior can be upgraded with the implementation of several luxury features that completely enhance the experience of driving the Murano. Among these enhancements is leather seating throughout the cabin, along with heating and ventilation for the front seats. Additionally, opting for any trim above the base model will replace the 6-way manual driver’s seat with a comfortable 10-way power-adjustable seat that even includes 2-way power lumbar support.
Connectivity in Mind
Every trim receives a standard infotainment center in the form of NissanConnect, which includes a large 8-inch touchscreen. Infotainment centers have become an extremely popular feature of modern-day vehicles, and it’s essentially one of the many ways that technology and automobiles go hand-in-hand. The infotainment center itself comprises several features that ensure that you’ll have all of the tools you need when on the road, one of which is Bluetooth connectivity so that you may listen to your favorite music directly from your phone without the need for an auxiliary cord. Although, it’s worth noting that an auxiliary input is present on every trim should you decide to utilize it.
While any music sounds excellent on the standard speaker system, the higher trims swap out the base 6-speaker system for a premium audio system that will equip your cabin with 11 pristine-sounding speakers for maximum enjoyment. Lastly, connectivity is taken to new heights thanks to the standard integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Because of these features, your infotainment center will essentially become much smarter and can connect to any compatible smartphone, whether it is an iPhone or an Android device.
The functions that both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow are massive quality-of-life improvements. Because of these improvements, you can utilize your smartphone’s most important features without ever touching the device. For example, you can look up turn-by-turn directions, ask virtual assistants such as Siri to play your favorite playlist, make phone calls, send text messages, and much more. You may also customize the experience further by downloading a wide array of available apps that fit your exact wants and needs. Once you’ve had time to learn these software suites, you’ll find it hard to believe that you’ve gone so long without them in the first place.
Where to Get Your Murano
The 2021 Murano retains the quality that has become expected of Nissan, which has long ago earned its legendary status and is the go-to manufacturer for millions of drivers. While the Murano may not be the fastest or strongest vehicle in the market, it performs exceptionally well for its segment and offers an excellent level of comfort. With the V6 engine powering the Murano, providing high levels of performance and terrific fuel-efficiency, alongside a robust and feature-rich interior, the 2021 Murano is one of the best midsize SUVs you can get for the price.
With this year’s model belonging to the same generation of Murano that was introduced six years ago, we can speculate that Nissan is planning a full redesign in the near future. However, until that redesign materializes, the Murano has plenty of potential to remain a fan-favorite for many years to come. The 2021 Murano is an excellent choice if you’re in the market today for a reliable and feature-packed SUV at an affordable price.
To learn more about this midsize SUV, you’ll want to contact your local Nissan dealer, where you’ll find a staff of knowledgeable employees who will answer any questions that you might have. Furthermore, taking a Murano for a test drive is a great way of discovering everything that this reliable SUV offers. Before you know it, you’ll be driving your new vehicle off the lot too.
