Nissan Murano 2015: A Stylish SUV Review

Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the Nissan Murano 2015, a mid-size SUV that really shook things up with its distinctive styling and comfortable ride. If you're on the hunt for a vehicle that blends practicality with a touch of flair, you've come to the right place. The 2015 Murano was a significant year, marking the debut of its third generation, and let me tell you, Nissan went all out to make it stand out from the crowd. We're talking about a completely redesigned exterior and interior, making it a truly compelling option in a very competitive segment. So, buckle up as we explore what makes this Murano a potential gem for your garage.

Exterior Design: Bold and Unconventional

When the Nissan Murano 2015 first rolled out, its exterior design was a major talking point, and honestly, it still holds up pretty well. Nissan wasn't shy about pushing the envelope here, opting for a look that's anything but boring. You'll notice its signature V-motion grille, which has become a hallmark of Nissan's design language, paired with sleek, wraparound headlights that give it a modern, almost futuristic face. The side profile is equally eye-catching, with a dramatically sloping roofline that mimics a coupe-like silhouette. This might not be the most practical choice for rear-seat headroom or cargo space compared to boxier SUVs, but it undeniably adds a sophisticated and sporty vibe. The body panels feature strong character lines and curves that play with light, giving the Murano a dynamic appearance even when it's standing still. Around the back, you'll find distinctive boomerang-shaped taillights that further enhance its unique identity. The overall aesthetic is mature and upscale, making it feel more like a premium crossover than a mainstream family hauler. It's a design that aims to appeal to those who want their vehicle to make a statement, eschewing the conventional SUV look for something more avant-garde. This bold approach might not be for everyone, but if you appreciate distinctive styling, the 2015 Murano is sure to impress. It's a vehicle that clearly doesn't blend into the background, and that's a big part of its charm.

Interior Comfort and Features: A Premium Experience

Step inside the Nissan Murano 2015, and you'll immediately notice that Nissan aimed for a more premium feel than many of its rivals. The cabin is thoughtfully designed, with a focus on comfort and convenience for both the driver and passengers. The materials used are generally of a higher quality, with soft-touch surfaces dominating the dashboard and door panels. You'll find comfortable, supportive seats, especially in the front, often featuring Nissan's "Zero Gravity" design, which is engineered to reduce fatigue on long drives. This is a huge plus, guys, especially if you do a lot of road-tripping! The layout of the controls is intuitive and easy to reach, with a large central touchscreen that serves as the hub for infotainment, navigation, and climate controls. Higher trims often come loaded with features like heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a Bose premium audio system, which really elevates the in-cabin experience. The ambient lighting adds a touch of sophistication, especially at night. While the coupe-like roofline does impact rear headroom and overall cargo capacity compared to some competitors, the interior still offers a decent amount of passenger space for its class. Storage solutions are also well-thought-out, with numerous cup holders and bins. The overall impression is one of a refined and welcoming environment, making it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're commuting or embarking on a cross-country adventure. It's this attention to detail in the interior that really sets the 2015 Murano apart.

Performance and Driving Dynamics: Smooth and Capable

Under the hood, the Nissan Murano 2015 is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers a respectable 260 horsepower. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which Nissan has refined over the years. The combination provides smooth acceleration and a comfortable driving experience, especially for highway cruising. While the CVT might not offer the same sporty engagement as a traditional automatic for some drivers, it does a good job of keeping the engine in its power band efficiently, contributing to decent fuel economy for a V6-powered SUV. The Murano offers both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, with the AWD system providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions. The ride quality is a standout feature; it's remarkably smooth and composed, absorbing bumps and rough patches in the road with ease. This makes the Murano a very comfortable daily driver and a great choice for long journeys. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and parking lots, though it might lack the sharp feedback some performance-oriented drivers might desire. Overall, the driving dynamics are geared towards comfort and refinement rather than sporty prowess. It handles competently, with a secure feel, but it's not designed for aggressive cornering. The V6 engine provides ample power for merging onto highways and passing slower traffic, ensuring you never feel underpowered. It's a well-balanced package that prioritizes a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind on the Road

When it comes to safety, the Nissan Murano 2015 came equipped with a solid array of standard and available features designed to protect you and your loved ones. Standard safety equipment across all trims typically included antilock brakes, stability and traction control, a comprehensive suite of airbags (front, side-impact, and side-curtain), and a rearview camera. These are pretty essential, guys, and it's good to see Nissan including them as standard. What really sets the 2015 Murano apart, especially in higher trim levels, is the availability of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and emergency braking were available, offering an extra layer of security and convenience. These technologies can significantly reduce the risk of accidents by alerting the driver to potential hazards or even intervening automatically. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) generally gave the Murano good ratings in their crash tests, underscoring its structural integrity. The inclusion of these advanced safety features, particularly on models equipped with them, makes the 2015 Murano a compelling choice for families and anyone who prioritizes safety. It's reassuring to know that the vehicle is working to keep you safe, even when you're not actively aware of a potential danger. This commitment to safety enhances the overall ownership experience and provides that crucial peace of mind.

Trim Levels and Value Proposition

The Nissan Murano 2015 was offered in several trim levels, typically including S, SV, SL, and Platinum, allowing buyers to choose the features and price point that best suited their needs. The base S model offered a good starting point with essential features, while moving up to the SV added more convenience and comfort options. The SL trim stepped up the luxury with more premium features and often included some of the advanced safety technologies. The top-tier Platinum trim represented the pinnacle of the Murano experience, loaded with virtually every available amenity, from the panoramic sunroof to the premium audio system and the most advanced driver aids. When considering the value proposition, the 2015 Murano often presented a strong case, especially when compared to its luxury-oriented competitors. It offered a premium interior feel, distinctive styling, and a comfortable ride at a more accessible price point. While it might not have had the same brand cachet as some European luxury SUVs, it delivered a comparable level of refinement and features. The V6 engine provided ample power, and the smooth CVT contributed to respectable fuel efficiency for its class. When shopping for a used 2015 Murano, looking at the different trim levels and the specific features included is key. A well-maintained SL or Platinum model can offer an exceptional amount of luxury and technology for the money, making it a smart buy for those seeking a stylish and comfortable mid-size SUV without breaking the bank. It's a vehicle that punches above its weight in terms of perceived quality and overall satisfaction.

Competitors and Market Position

The Nissan Murano 2015 entered a highly competitive segment, facing off against strong rivals such as the Ford Edge, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Its primary differentiator has always been its bold, unconventional styling and its focus on providing a more upscale, refined interior experience than many of its mainstream competitors. While SUVs like the Highlander and Pilot often appeal to a broader audience with their more conservative designs and maximum practicality, the Murano targeted buyers who prioritized aesthetics and a premium feel. The Ford Edge, particularly in its later generations, also offered a stylish and well-equipped package, making it a close competitor in terms of design and features. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, on the other hand, often brought more off-road capability to the table, appealing to a different kind of buyer. The Murano's market position was firmly planted as a stylish, comfortable, and more design-forward alternative in the mid-size crossover SUV class. It appealed to those who wanted the utility of an SUV but didn't want to sacrifice on style or a sophisticated driving experience. Its V6 engine and smooth ride made it a great choice for highway cruising, and its available AWD added versatility. While it might have been slightly less practical in terms of cargo space and rear headroom compared to some rivals due to its sloping roofline, its strengths in design, comfort, and available premium features allowed it to carve out a distinct niche for itself. It was the SUV for those who wanted to stand out.

Conclusion: A Stylish and Comfortable Choice

So, what's the final verdict on the Nissan Murano 2015? Guys, this SUV is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a blend of distinctive style, comfort, and a refined driving experience. It's not just another generic SUV; it’s a vehicle that makes a statement. The bold exterior design turns heads, while the upscale interior provides a comfortable and premium environment for all occupants. The smooth V6 engine and composed ride make it a joy to drive, especially on longer journeys. While its coupe-like styling might slightly compromise on ultimate cargo space and rear headroom compared to some boxier competitors, the trade-off is a more sophisticated and sporty aesthetic. With a good range of safety features, particularly on higher trims, and a strong value proposition, the 2015 Murano offers a compelling package. If you appreciate unique design, prioritize comfort, and want an SUV that feels a step above the ordinary, the Nissan Murano 2015 is definitely worth considering. It’s a stylish, comfortable, and capable crossover that continues to impress.