Nissan Murano: Premium Two-Row Crossover With a Turbocharged Edge

The Nissan Murano occupies a distinct spot in the mid-size two-row crossover segment, blending a more upscale cabin experience with a unique powertrain approach. For 2026, Nissan's fourth-generation Murano dropped its aging V6 in favor of a 2.0-liter variable-compression turbocharged four-cylinder, a move that sharpens both efficiency and torque delivery compared to the previous model. Positioned between mainstream crossovers like the Honda Passport and more premium offerings such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Murano appeals to buyers who want a comfortable, tech-forward daily driver without stepping into a luxury badge. Its defining angle is calm refinement: dual 12.3-inch displays, available massaging and ventilated front seats, and a quiet, composed ride make it a strong consideration for those who prioritize comfort over off-road capability or maximum cargo space.

Why Consider the Nissan Murano

The Murano's strongest argument is its interior polish at a mainstream price point. Available semi-aniline leather upholstery, 64-color ambient lighting, and a panoramic moonroof give the cabin a near-luxury feel that competitors like the Toyota Venza and Ford Edge struggle to match. The 2026 redesign also improves rear-seat comfort with Nissan's Zero Gravity outboard seats and added knee room. On the road, the 241-horsepower VC-Turbo engine produces 260 lb-ft of torque, giving it a responsive feel in city traffic.

• Standard Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, including Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection and Blind Spot Warning.
• ProPILOT Assist standard; available ProPILOT Assist 2.1 allows hands-off freeway driving in certain conditions.
• 9-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and a three-mode Drive Mode Selector.
• Available Invisible Hood View camera system aids maneuvering in tight spaces.

Compared with the Honda Passport, the Murano trades some utility for a more refined cabin and better standard driver-assistance content, making it the more comfort-oriented choice.

Specifications and Powertrains

Gasoline engine. The sole powertrain in the 2026 Murano is a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo four-cylinder producing 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard; Intelligent All-Wheel Drive is available.

Efficiency. Nissan rates the 2026 Murano at up to 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, with the exact figures varying slightly by drivetrain and trim (sourced from Nissan's official specifications). Standard idle stop-start helps improve city efficiency.

Emissions and alternative fuels. No hybrid, plug-in, or fully electric versions are currently offered in the United States market. Buyers seeking electrified options in this segment should look at the Toyota Venza hybrid or the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid instead.

Payment Reality

Financing a Nissan Murano depends on trim choice, available incentives, and the gap between transaction price and resale value. The 2026 model starts around $42,000, while the 2027 model lists from approximately $41,780 before destination fees (source: Nissan USA). Because the Murano is a redesign with a new powertrain, early depreciation patterns are not yet firmly established; however, Nissan crossovers historically see modest retained value compared with Honda or Toyota rivals. Monthly loan payments will hinge on down payment, loan term, and current interest rates, while lease payments are heavily influenced by the residual value Nissan assigns to the vehicle — a figure that reflects expected three-year depreciation. Use the CarPayCheck calculator to model your own figures with current rates.

Warranty and Maintenance

Nissan backs the 2026 Murano with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, the standard coverage for the brand in the United States. Scheduled maintenance intervals follow Nissan's standard recommendation of oil changes every 5,000 miles or six months, with cabin air filter replacement typically around 15,000 miles. Parts availability is strong nationwide given the shared VC-Turbo engine platform, and both Nissan dealers and independent mechanics can service the vehicle. The VC-Turbo system is more complex than a conventional engine, so buyers may prefer dealer service during the warranty period to protect coverage.

Who the Nissan Murano Suits

The Murano is best suited for buyers who prioritize a comfortable, quiet cabin and premium features over all-out utility or off-road ability. It fits commuters who spend meaningful time in traffic and want driver-assistance technology, as well as couples or small families who need two-row seating with a refined feel. It is not ideal for those needing three rows (consider the Honda Pilot or Kia Telluride) or serious towing capacity (the Jeep Grand Cherokee with the V6 outperforms it). Buyers who value hybrid efficiency should also cross-shop the Toyota Venza before committing.