This week, we’re driving the 2015 Nissan Murano, featuring a new exterior design, way more interior room and the trusty mechanicals that have made it one of Nissan’s most popular vehicles.

 

The new Murano starts at $29,560 in front-drive "S" trim or $32,240 for the “S” AWD entry model. Customers can then choose from three other variations, including SV, our tester SL, and upper crust Premium, all in front-drive or AWD versions. Our SL AWD arrived with a base of $38,550 and came very well equipped. With two options, the bottom line came in at $41,905 with $885 delivery included.

 

This third generation Murano is a fine example of Nissan engineers creating more interior room on the same wheelbase as the last generation. Originally debuting in 2003, Murano underwent a major second-generation redesign in 2009 followed by what many feel is its best effort yet in the third generation 2015 presentation. Better yet, the entry model costs less than the last generation Murano we drove assuring consumers that Nissan is aware that inflationary conditions many times supersede consumer yearly cost-of-living income increases, or lack thereof. 

 

Featuring a more athletic appearance, Nissan designers made sure the new five-passenger Murano would not vary too much from earlier motifs, yet still delivered a major cabin and amenity improvement along with the muscular exterior enhancement. Murano's end theme is sporty and luxurious, which is not surprising as Nissan’s “concept to production” designers are still regarded as the most aggressive in the worldwide auto industry.

 

Test Drive feels the new Murano deserves further praise in two specific areas. First, Murano’s increase in EPA fuel mileage. When we drove a new Murano SL AWD 20 months ago, it came powered by the same 3.5-liter, 260-horse V6 and coupled to a CVT transmission. The best we could expect was 18 city and 24 highway, which were pretty good numbers.  

 

Today, the new Murano, which still weighs near two tons, delivers outstanding 21 city and 28 highway EPA fuel mileage without losing any of the punch the 3.5 liter V6 generates. With a few hundred pound lighter build and some engine/transmission efficiency advancements, Nissan proves you can better already good fuel mileage numbers. As for the AWD versus front-drive comparison, the EPA numbers are exactly the same thanks to the AWD “only in use when needed” technology.

 

Second, the interior upgrades. Not surprising is Murano’s amenity rich, comfortable and quiet surroundings. What is surprising compared to the 2014 model is how Nissan added 8.0 more cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 5.9 cu. ft. additional with the 60/40 split second row down…all accomplished on the same wheelbase length as the previous generation. (Take a bow Nissan, as everyone always needs more cargo space!)  

 

Every expected modern convenience and safety feature is standard, including four-wheel vented ABS disc brakes, 18-inch tires on nice alloys, all the traction and vehicle dynamic controls and modern air bag safety systems. Add easy to use Nissan Connect Navigation with apps and voice-activation, electronic brakeforce distribution and extra strong side crush zones and you’re driving in one very safe vehicle.

 

Standard cabin notables include leather heated seats, eight-way power driver seat w/lumbar, four-way power passenger seat, Bose 11-speaker premium stereo system with double subwoofers, SiriusXM Satellite, rear “all around” safety camera with 360-degree moving object detection, eight-inch color display, push button start, Bluetooth, MP3 and much more. (Your dealer awaits your visit to explain all in detail).

 

Another major factor in Murano already receiving several awards from the automotive press, including IHHS Safety Awards and Edmunds “10 Best Family Cars” for 2015, is the fact that Murano is now being assembled for the very first time at its state-of-the-art, technologically advanced platform in Canton, Mississippi by a quality American workforce.   

 

Additionally, what used to cost $1,500 more as a “Technology Package” is now standard on Murano SL. This option included power liftgate, auto on/off headlights, Bluetooth, LED taillights, privacy glass and heated outside mirrors.

 

In its place, the new Canton, Mississippi, “Technology Package” is a $2,260 option that adds beautiful power panoramic dual pane sunroof, intelligent cruise, predictive forward collision warning and forward emergency braking system. (Test Drive highly recommends this option, especially for its advanced safety features). The second and final option was a $210 floor mat and cargo area protector set.   

 

Important numbers include a wheelbase of 111.2 inches, 1,500-pound tow capacity, 3,977 pound curb weight, 6.9 inch ground clearance, 19 gallon fuel tank, and a best in class 39.6 cu. ft. of cargo space that expands to 69.9 depending on 60/40 rear seat arrangements.

 

The new Nissan Murano continues as a major contender in the midsize  crossover/wagon class, and not only compares well to the competition, it surpasses in many areas.

 

The 2015 Murano receives a “Best Buy” nod from this scribe and is a must test drive if shopping this class.  

 

Base Price: $29,560

Price As Tested: $42,410

Likes: New design overall, great fuel mileage, way more cabin room.

Dislikes: Suspension now tuned for comfort versus sporty, third row seat not available, no other engines available.

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