2018 Nissan Murano Review

Name: 2018 Nissan Murano
Brand: Nissan

Price Range: $12,248 - $23,998

Below Average

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Average price: $17,754

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Appraise My 2018 Nissan Murano

Nissan Murano model years

Nissan Murano for Sale

Edmunds' Expert Review

by Dan Frio

Pros

Delivers right balance of power and fuel-efficiency
Interior highlighted by high-quality materials and unique design
Front seats are exceptionally comfortable
Spacious rear seats accommodate passengers and car seats with equal ease

Cons

Modest cargo capacity limits practicality
Can't tow heavy weekend toys like some competitors
Stylish exterior design creates compromised outward visibility

What’s new

For 2018, the Nissan Murano now includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and navigation on every model. Options have been distilled into two packages, with options from previous model years (i.e., adaptive cruise control, heated rear seats) now spread throughout the lineup as standard features.

Vehicle overview

Nissan's 2018 Murano could be for you if typical crossover SUVs seem too boring and dull. For starters, dramatic curves and a sleek roofline give the Murano a distinctive look. Inside, the interior is noticeably upscale thanks to high-quality materials, a fetching ergonomic design, impressively comfortable front seats and a generous list of standard comfort and convenience features. We're also fond of the Murano's combination of a standard V6 engine and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that work together for smooth power and respectable fuel economy.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

58 listings

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2018 Nissan Murano
S 4dr SUV
$13,411
fair price
$265 below market
- 95,654 miles
- 1 accident, 2 owners, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 21 City / 28 Hwy MPG
- Precise Automotive Group (9 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
Close
Located in Chantilly, VA
At Precise Automotive Group, We're making car buying easier and more convenient than ever! Enjoy FREE & FAST Shipping on all vehicles straight to your...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
24 Combined MPG (21 City/28 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 5N1AZ2MG0JN165432
Stock: P5432_2
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 02-24-2026
New Listing
2018 Nissan Murano
S 4dr SUV
$18,998
- 59,997 miles
- 5 Seats, 21 City / 28 Hwy MPG
- CarMax Dulles (3 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Sterling, VA
Wanna drive? CarMax puts you in the driver's seat-and that includes transparency. Certain cars may have unrepaired safety recalls, so check nhtsa.gov/...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary Unavailable.
Features and Specs:
24 Combined MPG (21 City/28 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 5N1AZ2MHXJN122239
Stock: 28223460
Certified Pre-Owned: No

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The Murano does fall short of some competitors in overall cargo space, and its modest towing limits make it less than ideal for those who need an SUV that can tow trailers and toys. But if weekend watersports aren't in your plans, the Murano is a solid choice for an upscale, comfortable five-passenger crossover that delivers a bit more style than the norm.

Notably, we picked the 2018 Nissan Murano as one of Edmunds' Best Midsize SUVs for 2018.

What's it like to live with?

We bought a 2015 Nissan Murano and drove it for an entire year, documenting all our ups and downs with this comfy midsize SUV. Not much has changed with the Murano since then, so our impressions are just as relevant today. If you're thinking of buying a Nissan Murano, make sure to check out our long-term test page, where we cover everything from some surprising maintenance costs to the joys of ventilated seats, and even answer the question, "Will it Girl Scout?"

Edmunds' Expert Rating

7.0 / 10

The versatile 2018 Nissan Murano offers bold design, a roomy cabin and V6 power. It's a smart and stylish choice for an upscale crossover SUV without the luxury brand premium.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions, although trim levels share many aspects. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2015 Nissan Murano Platinum (3.5L V6 | CVT automatic | AWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Nissan Murano has received some minor equipment revisions. Our findings are broadly applicable to this year's model, however.

Scorecard

Overall	7.0 / 10
Driving	7.0
Comfort	8.0
Interior	7.0
Utility	7.0
Technology	7.0

Driving

7.0

The Murano accelerates like most other V6-powered crossovers in the class. It's not quick, but it easily merges into highway traffic. Its continuously variable automatic transmission balances performance and efficiency; the suspension leans toward comfort. A solid all-around performer but not sporty.

Acceleration

7.0

The 260-hp engine is more than adequate to propel this midsize SUV. The V6's pairing with a CVT automatic is easy driving, quiet and responsive. We clocked a 0-60 mph time of 7.5 seconds, about average for the class. Noise suppression and refinement levels under hard acceleration are about average.

Braking

6.5

Braking in this vehicle is intuitive and easy. Its pedal is just the way we like it, responsive and easy to modulate. Panic stops from 60 mph require 123 feet, which equals the result of the Murano's most direct competitor, the Ford Edge.

Steering

6.5

The very lightweight feel at parking lot speeds makes the Murano easy to maneuver. As speeds increase, it adds some heft, but there's never much road feel. It's a pretty typical setup for this kind of vehicle.

Handling

7.0

The Murano's handling is adequate for the class. It's not sporty, but it's not so soft that it ever feels out of control. It handles big dips in the road without jostling passengers, but sharp corners do bring about some noticeable body roll.

Drivability

7.5

Nissan's pairing of a powerful V6 with a continuously variable automatic transmission gives the Murano all the quickness and responsiveness it needs. Press the gas pedal even a little bit and you get an immediate response from under the hood.

Comfort

8.0

Though it leans toward comfort over performance, the Murano isn't the most supple SUV we've driven. Most of our impressions are of a Platinum model with 20-inch wheels and tires, so lesser trims are likely more comfortable over rough roads. The quiet cabin and excellent seats help offset any flaws.

Seat comfort

9.0

Outstanding seats front and rear. Among the most comfortable in the business. They are soft enough to never create hot spots but not so soft that you sink in. Lateral support is minimal, but because this vehicle isn't likely to do much fast cornering, it's an insignificant shortcoming.

Ride comfort

6.5

A middle-of-the-road performer in this category. Not overly soft but not uncomfortably stiff either. It feels hunkered to the road, so it gives the driver a feeling of confidence. Hit a bump and you'll feel it, but it's not so jarring that you'll find the ride objectionable.

Noise & vibration

7.5

Probably the biggest perk to pairing a torquey engine with a CVT automatic is the elimination of extended high-rpm operation, which reduces noise. The Murano's engine is no louder than those of competitors with conventional automatic transmissions.

Climate control

8.5

Upper-end models come with dual-zone automatic climate control. It's a simple system with knobs for the temperature control and buttons for manual fan speed adjustments. There are extra vents for the rear seats and available ventilated and heated seats. It's a solid setup with no notable issues.

Interior

7.0

Big effort was spent to increase the interior quality in this Murano. Top trims offer interior materials similar to what you'll find in Infiniti models. Leather adorns most surfaces, and built-in lighting is striking. Some unconventional design choices, but none results in loss of functionality.

Ease of use

8.0

Most controls are logically arranged and easily accessible. One issue is the placement of the Murano's start button low on the center stack, but it's not a deal-breaker. There's good placement of most secondary controls such as temperature and volume and a very good infotainment interface.

Getting in/getting out

7.0

The Murano's front doors open to almost 90 degrees, and the vehicle doesn't stand very high, so getting in and out is relatively easy up front. The rear doors don't open up quite as wide, and the opening is slightly narrower.

Driving position

6.5

Multiadjustable seats and a tilt-and-telescoping steering column (power adjustable on upper trims) mean no problem finding a comfortable position for most drivers. Sun glare from interior surfaces and the contoured hood is an occasional problem, depending on your seating position.

Roominess

6.5

The Murano is big inside, but it doesn't always feel like it. It has ample front and rear headroom, even for occupants over 6 feet tall. The wide interior provides plenty of shoulder and hiproom. You'll find plenty of lateral space and toe room under the front seats.

Visibility

5.5

The tall hood hurts forward visibility, as do long, sweeping front windshield pillars. Rear-quarter visibility is just OK due to a small rear window between the rearmost pillars. Blind-spot monitoring plus rearview and surround-view cameras improve safety.

Quality

7.5

The Murano's cabin quality punches above its weight, between the leather surfaces, soft touch points where elbows, arms and fingers interact, classy contrast double stitching and phenomenal seats. This is a luxury, Infiniti-like experience.

Utility

7.0

Not the largest cargo area in the class, but not the smallest either. The Murano is similar to its main rivals with a wide, flat opening at the rear that's able to swallow a solid chunk of luggage without infringing on the second row. A lack of small-item storage space up front is a big drawback.

Small-item storage

6.0

The lack of storage compartments up front hurts the Murano in this category. Other than the center console, there are few places to put personal items. The small opening just ahead of the console is barely big enough for one phone or a set of keys, and there's no space in front of the shifter.

Cargo space

7.0

Overall space is similar to that of the Ford Edge and the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The split rear seats fold completely flat, and the quick-release and power-folding mechanism is convenient to have. You'll have no problem loading bikes or a 10-foot surfboard front to back.

Child safety seat accommodation

7.0

There's plenty of room to install a rear-facing child seat in either of the outboard rear-seat positions and still have adequate space for the driver or front passenger. LATCH attachment points are easy to find.

Towing

6.0

At 1,500 pounds, the Murano's towing capacity isn't as high as competitors with similar power, most of which tow at least 2,000 pounds or more.

Technology

7.0

Those willing to pay for the pricier trim levels will get everything from advanced safety technologies to a full-featured navigation system with an 8-inch touchscreen.

Audio & navigation

7.0

Turn-by-turn nav directions in the gauge cluster are a thoughtful touch, reducing constant reliance on the larger center stack display. The standard audio system should satisfy most, but the optional Bose upgrade (SV and above) is worth it for music lovers.

Smartphone integration

7.0

Bluetooth and Apple-Android device integration are standard on all models. Painless pairing process. Optional NissanConnect with Mobile Apps (unavailable on our test model) includes Facebook, iHeartRadio and Pandora functionality.

Driver aids

7.0

Front collision warning is standard this year. The Around View camera is invaluable for moving in tight spaces. But the Murano doesn't offer lane departure warning or lane keeping assist.

Voice control

6.5

Phonebook, audio and navigation offer voice control. Selecting music by voice works fine but requires jumping through more confirmation hoops than Ford's Sync, for example. Recognition capability is very competent.

Which Murano does Edmunds recommend?

The base Murano S comes nicely equipped with keyless entry, an 8-inch touchscreen display, satellite radio, smartphone integration and a navigation system, among other features. It's an excellent value for a stylish crossover with more than the basics. But the S doesn't offer any options. Since the main appeal of the Murano is getting an upscale SUV without luxury-brand pricing, we say move up to get the SV trim with the optional Premium package. This way you'll get almost all of the Murano's luxury essentials while keeping the price reasonable.

Compare 2018 Nissan Murano trim levels

2018 Nissan Murano models

The 2018 Nissan Murano crossover is offered in four trim levels: S, SV, SL and Platinum. All have a 3.5-liter V6 engine (260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque) and a continuously variable automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive comes standard; all-wheel drive is optional.

The base S comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, LED running lights, keyless entry and ignition, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control and a 60/40-split folding rear seat. Standard technology includes a navigation system, an 8-inch touchscreen interface, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker sound system with CD player, satellite radio, USB and auxiliary audio jacks, and smartphone app integration (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). There's even a USB port for rear passengers to connect a music device to the audio system.

All 2018 Muranos also have forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking as standard.

Moving up to the SV adds roof rails, foglights, remote engine start, power-adjustable front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The SV's optional Premium package adds unique 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats and mirrors, an 11-speaker Bose audio system, and driver aids such as adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree parking camera system, and a drowsy driver warning system.

The SL model comes standard with the SV's options (including the driver aids and Bose audio), as well as a hands-free liftgate, heated side mirrors, driver-seat memory settings, leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and ambient interior lighting. A panoramic sunroof is optional.

The top-line Murano Platinum is loaded with the SL's features plus 20-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a power-adjustable steering wheel with memory setting, heated and ventilated front seats, power-folding rear seats, and NissanConnect telematics, including automatic collision notification to emergency services and customizable alerts (to keep tabs on teen drivers or valets, for example).

A Midnight Edition optional styling package for SL trims adds special 20-inch wheels and a blacked-out finish on roof rails, mirror caps, grille, lower bumper accents, sill plates, side moldings.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$171/mo

$199/mo

Avg. Midsize SUV

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Model

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Reliability

The 2018 Nissan Murano has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 2 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, ranks it #16 out of 29 among Compact SUVs. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

4 out of 5 stars4/5Above Average

#16 out of 29 among Compact SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$485/yr

vs. $465/yr
for Average Compact SUV

Frequency

1.01x/yr

vs. 1x/yr
for Average Compact SUV

Severity

12.6%

vs. 11.5%
for Average Compact SUV

Recalls

2 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 19V807000
Manufactured from:: 2016-05-18 to 2018-05-23
Number of vehicles affected:: 391479
Defect Description:: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Nissan Murano, 2016-2018 Nissan Maxima, and 2017-2019 Nissan Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 vehicles. These vehicles were previously recalled and unrepaired, or inspected and determined to not need a repair, under recall number 18V-601. In addition, this recall expands the previous population. The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) actuator pumps may allow brake fluid to leak onto an internal circuit board.
Defect Consequence:: A brake fluid leak on the circuit board may result in an electrical short, increasing the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ABS actuator, free of charge. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available, currently expected to be during summer 2020. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Note: If the ABS warning light remains illuminated for more than 10 seconds after engine start up, owners are advised to park the vehicle outdoors away from other vehicles or structures and to not drive the vehicle.

Recall Number:: 19V654000
Manufactured from:: 2018-05-01 to 2019-04-30
Number of vehicles affected:: 1228830
Defect Description:: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect Consequence:: The lack of an image in the back-up camera display increases the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Nissan will notify owners in phases, having dealers update the back-up camera settings software, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin October 21, 2019 and all affected VINs should be activated by November 11, 2019. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669 or INFINITI customer service at 1-800-662-6200.

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles

Nissan Murano Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.5

73 reviews

5(71%)

4(15%)

3(6%)

2(4%)

1(4%)

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2018 Murano Features & Specs

Trim:

MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee	$31,000
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	24 MPG
Cost to Drive	$171/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	32.1 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the Murano models:

Automatic Emergency Braking: Front radar monitors proximity to the vehicle ahead. In an imminent collision, the Murano can apply the brakes to avoid or mitigate impact.
Blind-Spot Monitoring: The Murano's stylish exterior makes for reduced side and rear visibility. This feature helps compensate. Standard on SV, SL and Platinum.
Around-View Monitor: Displays a 360-degree, top-down image of the car. Selectable curbside view works great for parking. Standard on SV, SL and Platinum.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover15.9%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2018 Nissan Murano Review

Price & Payment

Edmunds' Expert Review

Pros

Cons

What’s new

Vehicle overview

For sale near Ashburn, VA

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds' Expert Rating

Trim tested

Scorecard

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Climate control

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Driving position

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Child safety seat accommodation

Towing

Technology

Audio & navigation

Smartphone integration

Driver aids

Voice control

Which Murano does Edmunds recommend?

2018 Nissan Murano models

Cost to Drive

Reliability

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

Recalls

Warranty

Nissan Murano Reviews

Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2018 Murano Features & Specs

Safety

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