For 2009, Acura engineers have redesigned the Murano inside and out, and added more technology than ever before. That’s quite a makeover, and it makes for quite a crossover.
The exterior of the 2009 Murano has been rethought to be one of the most modern and contemporary on the road. Featuring an available dual-panel power moonroof with second row skylight, a power liftgate and rain-sensing wipers, the Murano's contemporary technology matches that style. 
What's more, Nissan says it has further refined the Murano's standard engine and introduced a second-generation Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Nissan's standard 3.5-liter V6 has been on Ward's '10 Best Engines' list for 13 years. The Murano also has intuitive all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive.
Every new Murano features an advanced 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine capable of 265 hp and 248 lb/ft of torque through a smooth-shifting CVT with Adaptive Shift Control. Traction and Stability Control systems come standard.
The Nissan Murano is a five-passenger, midsize crossover that comes in three versions: the S, which has all the basic equipment; the SL, which adds privacy glass, a power driver’s seat, a power return feature for the rear seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with auxiliary audio controls; and the top-shelf LE, which has 20-inch alloy wheels, a power liftgate, rain-sensing wipers, heated side mirrors, roofrails, automatic xenon headlights, leather upholstery, heated seats (front and rear), a power passenger seat and a popup cargo area organizer. An upgraded Bose audio system, iPod integration, satellite radio, keyless ignition/entry, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a rearview camera and Bluetooth connectivity are also standard for the LE. Many of the LE's luxury features are optional for the SL trim via various packages. Other options include a hard-drive-based navigation system with digital music capability, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Customers can also have mood lighting and memory seating with two programmed seating arrangements for the driver's seat. In the back, power-up seats fold down for more space and then move up again at the touch of a lever.
The editors of Edmunds.com heartily approve of the all-new 2009 Nissan Murano's changes, saying, “The result is a class leader in terms of comfort and function.”
The Murano is also one of the safest vehicles you can drive, as evidenced by its five-star safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2009 Nissan Murano a Top Safety Pick as well. Antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability control, active front head restraints, side and side-curtain airbags are standard equipment in all Murano models.
Murano has become synonymous with great handling, in no small part due to being based on one of the best Nissan sport sedan platforms. The 2009 Murano preserves its reputation by switching its chassis to that of the latest-generation Altima. Adding to the performance character of the Murano, Nissan has continued to develop the 3.5-liter "VQ Series" V6, bumping power to 265 hp, a 25-hp gain. Nissan’s continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), used to optimize fuel mileage, has also been redeveloped for more responsive shifting.
Edmunds.com credits Nissan for a meaningful makeover. “A re-engineered suspension with lightweight aluminum pieces and a new steering system make the 2009 Nissan Murano a willing and surprisingly communicative partner in daily driving. No doubt, the combination of these chassis upgrades and a new predictive (not reactive) all-wheel drive system (first introduced by the Nissan Rogue) contribute to the Murano's genuine agility and overall feel of predictability. Contrary to what some might expect, the 20-inch wheels and tires standard on the LE trim don't degrade the ride either.”
In their review of the 2009 Nissan Murano, Edmunds.com had this to say. “What we notice the most on the 2009 Nissan Murano is the much nicer cabin. Inside, higher-quality materials and an upscale ambience replace…the previous interior. New features like a hard-drive-based navigation system and a dedicated iPod interface are also part of the redesign.”
At an entry MSRP of $26,870, the 2009 Nissan Murano is affordable. It’s also one of the best midsize sport crossovers you can own. All things considered, the 2009 Nissan Murano should be on your must-see, must-drive list. Give us a call and we’ll make it all happen!
