Strengths

Reliable, powerful V6 engine; stylish, aggressive design; sporty and capable handling; luxurious top-line LE trim.

 

Changes

Following a major redesign in 2009, the Murano returns for 2010 with relatively minor updates. A Murano LE FWD model has been added to the lineup, and privacy glass is now available on the S and standard across the rest of the line. Intelligent Key is now standard on the S and SL models, and a security system is now standard on the SL. A dual-panel moonroof is now standard on the LE, and roofrails have been added to the SL.

 

Value

The 2010 Murano sits in a crowded crossover SUV segment, but it has no shortage of features that set it apart. The 2009 redesign was an effective evolution of the car's popular look, and Nissan's 3.5L V6 is widely regarded as one of the best powerplants in the automotive world. Coupled with the chassis it shares with the Altima, the Murano's car-like reflexes, ample power, creature comforts and spacious interior make it the ideal candidate for moving people and cargo in a comfortable, sporty, entertaining manner.

 

Overview

Following an extensive redesign in 2009, the Nissan Murano continues to offer a lot of performance and a variety of amenities in a crossover SUV.

The Murano is offered in three trim levels-S, SL and LE, All of which are available in either front- or all-wheel drive, and all are powered by Nissan's ubiquitous and exceptional 24-valve 3.5L V6, which puts out 265 horsepower and 248 ft-lbs of torque. All models make use of the company's second-generation continuously variable transmission (CVT). A limited-slip differential is optional on FWD models and standard on AWD models.

All 2010 Murano models feature a 60/40 split fold-flat rear seat, dual power mirrors, UV-reducing glass, push-button ignition, electroluminescent gauges, dual-zone automatic climate control, one-touch power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, tilt/telescopic steering wheel with cruise control, three handy 12-volt outlets and a 6-disc in-dash AM/FM stereo with MP3 capability.

The SL adds fog lights, rear privacy glass, an 8-way power driver's seat, power return rear seatbacks and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls.

Step up to the top-line LE and the Murano gets 20-inch alloy wheels, automatic high-intensity discharge (HID) xenon headlights, dual heated mirrors, a power liftgate, Bluetooth phone system, an information center with a 7-inch screen, rear-view camera, a power tilt/telescopic steering column, driver's seat memory, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a retractable cargo cover, 4-way power to the passenger's seat, heated leather seats front and rear, wood accents, a Bose stereo system with speed sensitive volume control and XM satellite radio.

Several packages are available on the 2010 Murano. The Premium Package features a Bose stereo, XM satellite radio, a security system and more, while a Technology Package includes HID headlights, intelligent keyless entry and ignition and rain-sensing wipers. A leather package, navigation and music package and a DVD package are also available.

Standard safety features on all 2010 Muranos include six air bags, traction and dynamic stability control and anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist. The Murano returns 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.