2011 Nissan Murano Reviews

Nissan Murano

2011 Nissan Murano Available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, the new Murano SV trim level slots above the basic S series and below the SL and range-topping LE.

Notably, SV and SL models pick up Bluetooth and iPod connectivity as standard equipment.
For 2011, the Nissan Murano receives a few styling updates as well as a new SV trim level. The optional navigation system gets real-time traffic and weather, a Zagat restaurant guide and Bluetooth streaming audio. The 2011 Murano further breaks with convention with a two-door convertible model called the Cross Cabriolet.

Fortunately, the Murano gets a few improvements for 2011. Stacked against other crossovers, the 2011 Nissan Murano's uncommon performance places it well out of reach of the competition.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2011 Nissan Murano is a five-passenger midsize SUV available in S, SV, SL and LE trim levels. Stepping up to the SL trim gets you a power lift gate, automatic wipers, heated outside mirrors, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, driver seat memory and a nine-speaker Bose audio system with digital music storage. The LE trim adds 20-inch wheels, bi-xenon headlights, heated rear seats, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column and wood interior trim.

Those Murano trims are also eligible for a twin headrest-mounted rear DVD entertainment system.

The 2011 Murano is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. This engine is mated to a CVT. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional on all trim levels. Every model of the 2011 Nissan Murano model features antilock brakes with brake assist, stability control, traction control, active front head restraints, front side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.

The range-topping LE trim boosts the comfort level with heated rear seats. Folding the seats flat unlocks 64 cubic feet, which is slightly smaller than the Murano's rivals.

Power for all 2011 Nissan Murano models comes from a smooth, powerful 3.5-liter V-6 engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Murano S, SV, and SL versions come with front-wheel drive and an optional all-wheel-drive system, while the top LE version has standard all-wheel drive.

Overall, the Murano's powertrain is responsive and leans toward doing the right thing, complementing the responsive handling and firm but absorbent ride. The 2011 Nissan Murano isn't a performance machine, nor is it completely comfort-oriented. While the 2011 Murano is very satisfying in terms of styling and performance, space and utility are disappointments. A new value-packed SV trim joins the Murano lineup for 2011; the SV trims fit between basic S and mid-level SL trims in the lineup, while the luxurious LE trim still tops off the range.

Finally, the Nissan Murano LE comes with new center stack colors and new wood grain trim.