The ultra-sporty 2009 Nissan Murano crossover gets a new platform (the new Altima "D" architecture), features a new exterior and interior and more standard technology. That’s quite a makeover, and it makes for quite a crossover.
Immediately noticeable on the 2009 Murano is its striking new exterior design, which Nissan contends now reflects modern art. Nissan’s newest features an available power liftgate, heated seats, a rearview monitor, rain-sensing wipers and a new dual-panel power moonroof with a second row skylight.
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.
All 2009 Nissan Muranos are powered by a VQ-series 3.5-liter DOHC V6 capable of 265 hp and 248 lb/ft of torque and controlled by an automatic CVT transmission with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC). The Murano comes standard with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS).
The Nissan Murano midsize crossover is available in S, SL and LE trims. Some features of the S model are 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, push button ignition and dual-zone automatic temperature control. The SL trim adds foglights, rear privacy glass, illuminated steering wheel-mounted audio controls, eight-way power driver’s seat, power return rear seatbacks and leather-wrapped steering wheel. The LE ramps it up by adding 20-inch aluminum wheels, HID headlamps, keyless entry and ignition system, Bluetooth connectivity and power liftgate.
The all-new 2009 Nissan Murano impresses Edmunds.com reviewers. “The result is a class leader in terms of comfort and function.” In fact, the Murano is more than just a class leader, having received a higher Editors’ Rating from Edmunds.com than the current model Acura MDX, Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne V6.
The Murano is also one of the safest vehicles you can drive. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2009 Nissan Murano a Top Safety Pick. In crash testing by the IIHS, Murano was the best overall performer in front, side and rear tests among midsize SUV models. To become a Top Safety Pick, a vehicle must earn the highest rating (“Good”) in all three tests. A vehicle’s rating in the frontal test is based on how well it withstands a 40-mph frontal offset crash into a deformable barrier. Side testing is based on performance when a barrier moving at 31 mph strikes the side of a vehicle. In this test, they rate the effectiveness of standard front and rear head-curtain airbags and standard front-seat mounted torso airbags. Rear tests simulate a collision wherein a stationary vehicle is struck in the rear at 20 mph. In addition, the 2009 Murano received the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) highest rating – five stars – for side-impact crash safety. 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, 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…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 $27,680, 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!
