2026 Nissan Murano Review: A Blend of Comfort and Style

The 2026 Nissan Murano is designed for those who appreciate a touch of luxury in their daily drive. With its recent redesign, it no longer offers a front-wheel-drive option, focusing on all-wheel drive across all trims. This shift aims to enhance the driving experience, especially with the introduction of the ProPilot 2.1 hands-free driving mode. The new SL Comfort package promises added luxury with ventilated and massaging front seats, a power liftgate, and heated rear seats, catering to those who value comfort and convenience. The Murano’s bold exterior design is matched by a luxurious interior, offering a spacious cabin that comfortably accommodates four adults on long journeys.

Under the hood, the Murano features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 241 horsepower, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While its 0-60 mph time of 7.2 seconds is quicker than its predecessor, the Murano prioritizes a smooth ride over sporty performance. Its towing capacity remains modest at 1,500 pounds, lagging behind competitors like the Honda Passport and Hyundai Santa Fe. Despite this, the Murano's ride quality on smooth roads is commendable, although rougher surfaces may challenge its suspension.

Fuel efficiency is another area where the Murano performs adequately. With an EPA rating of 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, it offers competitive fuel economy for its class, though not groundbreaking. This efficiency ensures that drivers can enjoy long, uninterrupted drives without frequent stops at the gas station.

Inside, the Murano does not disappoint with its upscale features. The interior borrows design cues from the electric Ariya, including a visually engaging dashboard with a color-shifting trim. High-end features like the Zero Gravity seats ensure comfort during long drives, while the cargo area offers flexibility with a substantial 33 cubic feet of space, expandable to 64 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The premium Platinum trim adds luxurious touches such as semi-aniline leather upholstery and massaging front seats.

The Murano’s technology suite includes a dual 12.3-inch display setup for infotainment and gauges. Its Google-based infotainment system is user-friendly, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Higher trims benefit from additional features like a 10-speaker Bose sound system and an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot, ensuring a connected experience on the go. Safety technology is robust, with standard features such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The advanced ProPilot hands-free driving mode further enhances driver convenience and safety.

In terms of warranty, the Murano’s coverage is standard for the segment, offering a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, it lacks the extended roadside assistance plans and nontransferable powertrain warranties offered by some competitors. Despite these limitations, the 2026 Nissan Murano remains a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish, comfortable, and technologically advanced SUV, aiming to deliver a near-luxury experience at a competitive price point.