2019 Nissan Murano Review

Searching for a crossover SUV that's ideal for transporting a few passengers in high comfort? The 2019 Nissan Murano could work out well for you. Price-wise, the Murano is more expensive than popular five-passenger models such as the Honda CR-V and the Nissan Rogue, but it does have some advantages.

Seating is impressively comfortable both in front and in the rear, and higher trim models come with amenities that are usually found on more expensive luxury models. Standard technology is excellent as well, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, multiple USB and USB-C ports, and Nissan's latest driver assist system called Safety Shield 360.

The 2019 Murano reflects a few updates, but the underlying hardware stays the same. That means you have a choice of either front- or all-wheel drive but only one powertrain: a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission. This combination is smooth and responsive enough for most drivers, and it'll simulate shift points when you mash the gas to make it feel like a traditional automatic.

On the downside, the Murano comes up a little short on cargo space and towing capability. Similarly priced rivals, such as the Ford Edge and the all-new Chevrolet Blazer and Honda Passport, typically offer more of both. But for SUV shoppers who don't need maximum utility but also don't want to spend top dollar on features, the Murano should work out well.

Notably, we picked the 2019 Nissan Murano as one of Edmunds' Best Midsize SUVs for this year.

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?"

The 2019 Nissan Murano crossover is offered in four main 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, and all-wheel drive is optional.

The base S comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, LED running lights, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control and a 60/40-split folding rear seat. Standard technology includes an 8-inch touchscreen interface, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, four USB ports, and a six-speaker sound system with satellite radio. Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking is also standard.

Moving up to the SV adds roof rails, 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 a panoramic sunroof, LED foglights, heated front seats and mirrors, an 11-speaker Bose audio system, parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree parking camera system.

The SL model comes standard with the features of the SV Premium package (except the sunroof) and adds a hands-free liftgate, driver-seat memory functions, leather upholstery, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a navigation system, and ambient interior lighting. An SL-exclusive Technology package adds power panoramic sunroof and additional driver assists, such as high-beam assist, traffic sign recognition, forward pedestrian detection, lane departure warning and lane keeping assist, and rear automatic braking.

The top-line Murano Platinum is loaded with the SL's features plus 20-inch wheels, a power-adjustable steering wheel with memory setting, quilted leather seating surfaces, ventilated front seats, power-folding rear seats and NissanConnect communications.