2025 Nissan Murano

Nissan knows how to wring maximum mileage from its models. Its last-generation Pathfinder SUV ran nearly nine years before a full redesign, while the Frontier midsize lingered about 15 years before any substantive changes. The current-generation Murano continues the trend, in service since 2015 with only minor updates, but if industry reports are to be believed, the 2025 Nissan Murano will launch the latest generation of the midsize crossover. We don't have any official information but spy photos of recent test models suggest a sleek new look punctuated by a tapering roof, a rear spoiler, and a "floating roof" concept — the illusion of a continuous window line — similar to the current model. The upward sweeping angles of the side panels appear to give way to flatter horizontal lines, while a revamped front end echoes today's V-shaped waterfall grille but modernizes it with thinner headlights and possibly the de rigueur wrap-around lightbar treatment.

Edmunds spotlight: A return to regular gears

Although Nissan has hyped plans to electrify much of its lineup by 2030, the new Murano is expected to continue with a gas engine, most likely a revised version of its current 3.5-liter V6. That engine makes a robust 260 horsepower and we'd expect the current continuously variable transmission — decent though it is — to make way for a nine-speed automatic, similar to the latest Pathfinder with which the Murano shares its platform. Inside, the Murano could benefit from some repackaging that would offer more interior storage and overall cargo capacity, areas where it currently falls short. Nissan's impressive suite of standard driver aids should carry over, and we'd hope to see at least an optional display larger than the current 8-inch touchscreen. 

Competitors to consider

The midsize crossover class is loaded with good choices, including the Honda Passport, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento and Volkswagen Atlas CrossSport. The Santa Fe is recently redesigned and offers a standard third row, while the Honda and Volkswagen offer both more power and more cargo space than the current Murano. Other alternatives include the Chevrolet Blazer and Ford Edge, or more off-road-oriented models like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Subaru Outback and Ford Bronco. All start at about the same price as the Murano, but offer more utility and capability. 

Some updates could be in the works for 2025 and should boost the Murano's appeal in the competitive midsize SUV class. Check back with Edmunds as we find out more about the 2025 Murano.