Nissan has introduced the new Murano to the Mzansi market. The new car brings about a number of changes to the old one, most notably on the exterior. The striking new bold face is quite distinctive but retains the Murano look. Its headlights are smaller and yet they illuminate stronger thanks to the High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon bulbs.
“You can still clearly see the Murano-ness on the window graphic,” says chief designer Kinny Saito, “but we have added a new sense of strength and boldness to the shapes of the rear-end fender and the completely redesigned rear-end as a whole, while the grille is even more distinctive while clearly paying homage to the design success of the original vehicle.”
Inside the luxury of a premium sedan is evident from the materials used. Double-stitched leather upholstery comes in a choice of either black or beige. Nissan says it’s comfortable and lush, enhancing the passenger experience.
Nissan SA Product Manager Terry Mashoko elaborates. “The 3D design of the instruments really accentuates the sophistication and premium-segment ambience of the new Murano, and that console shaped like the deck of a cruise liner is an absolute joy to behold every time you get in to drive it. We’ve also taken a dramatic leap forwards in terms of fit and finish, and the use of the highest-quality materials and real chrome and aluminium for the bright work infuses the entire interior with an absolutely top-quality feel.”
Features include Bluetooth connectivity, an iPod auxiliary jack, a top notch 11-speaker BOSE sound system with MP3 compatibility, electric power steering, cruise control, an infotainment 17.8cm touch-screen that also serves as a rear parking assist monitor and an electrically adjustable leather-covered steering wheel.
Power comes from a 3.5-litre V6 engine (VQ35DE) that makes a useful 191kW at 6000rpm and maximum torque of 336Nm at 4400rpm. Its mate is a CVT (continuously variable transmission) that can be actuated “manually” and at which point engages six gears. ALL-MODE 4x4-i sends all power to all four 18-inch wheels and tyres (235/65R 18) for maximum grip at all times. I’m told, since I was not able to attend the media launch, that the Murano now matches and perhaps even beats the awesome cornering abilities of the BMW X5. A strong compliment indeed.
SUV Buyers who choose to go Murano will have their cars come standard with a 90 000km/5 year Service Plan. An option to upgrade to a service and maintenance plan up to 90 000km/ 5 years can be exercised for R8 800.
Nissan Murano pricing
Murano 3.5 V6 (R488 000)
