With a bold new exterior and a refined, tech-forward cabin, the latest Nissan Murano takes a substantial leap forward.
A Fresh Look with Distinctive Design
Spotting the 2025 Murano in a crowded parking lot, you might not immediately recognize it as a Nissan—or even as a Murano. The automaker, despite facing corporate challenges, continues to excel in design, and the new Murano is a prime example of that expertise.
Although it still rides on a revised version of the previous platform, the 2025 Murano feels like an entirely new SUV. A thoroughly revamped exterior, a stylish and well-appointed interior, and a modern turbocharged engine contribute to its fresh appeal.
Not everyone will be on board with its aesthetics—especially the controversial split-headlight design—but its distinctive presence, reminiscent of the Nissan Kicks, ensures it stands out. And in Aurora Blue, the Murano looks especially striking.
Quick Specs
| Engine | Turbocharged 2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder |
| Output | 241 Horsepower / 260 Pound-Feet |
| Efficiency | 23 City / 24 Highway / 23 Combined |
| Base Price | $41,860 |
| Trim Base / As Tested | $50,990 / $55,030 |
Interior: Modern, Comfortable, and Stylish
The cabin is just as impressive as the exterior. The Platinum trim features Twilight Blue leather that mirrors the car’s paint, complemented by elegant wood accents and restrained use of piano black plastics. At the heart of the dashboard sit dual 12.3-inch screens running Nissan’s latest infotainment system, which is intuitive and responsive, with no noticeable lag. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard.
However, Nissan has fallen into the trend of touch-sensitive controls, integrating them into the wood-trimmed center console, much like the Ariya. Adjusting climate settings requires precise input, which can be distracting while driving.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the Murano now houses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. While this is slightly less horsepower than the outgoing V6 (260 hp), it offers more torque (240 lb-ft), making for a livelier drive. Fuel economy stands at 23 mpg city, 24 highway, and 23 combined—only a marginal improvement over the previous V6’s figures.
On the road, the new powertrain feels more dynamic. Quick throttle response makes acceleration brisk, particularly in Sport mode. The Murano easily handles highway overtakes and merges seamlessly onto freeways, with the nine-speed automatic transmission providing smooth shifts.
Handling has also seen improvements. New dampers reduce body roll, while the transition to electronic power steering makes for a lighter, albeit somewhat twitchy, feel. Despite the steering’s sensitivity, it still provides enough feedback for confident cornering. Front-wheel drive is standard on the base SV model, while all-wheel drive comes included with the SL and Platinum trims.
Comfort and Ride Quality
The Murano’s suspension has been refined for a smoother ride. While the 21-inch wheels on the Platinum model can be a bit firm over rough surfaces, overall comfort has been significantly enhanced. Highway cruising is a serene experience, with minimal wind and road noise infiltrating the cabin.
The seating in the Platinum trim is another highlight. The front seats are sculpted for optimal support and come with heating, ventilation, and a massage function. The rear seats also benefit from the Murano’s increased width—2.6 inches more than before—offering generous space for passengers.
Pricing and Value
With a starting price of $41,860 (including destination fees), the 2025 Murano is positioned competitively. For comparison, the Hyundai Santa Fe begins at $35,675, the Jeep Grand Cherokee at $38,290, and the Toyota Highlander at $40,970. The upcoming 2026 Honda Passport will likely start in the mid-$40,000 range. Fully loaded, the Platinum trim with all-wheel drive and additional dealer-installed features reaches $55,030. Even at this price point, the Murano presents solid value.
Final Verdict: A Worthy Contender
Unlike some critics, I find the 2025 Murano to be a strong offering in its segment. It boasts a striking design, an elegant interior (despite a few quirks), and an improved powertrain with a smoother ride. With numerous competitors in the midsize SUV category, the Murano still manages to hold its own—and could be a smart choice for buyers seeking style, comfort, and modern technology.
