NISSAN MURANO: THE LOVE IN TOWN

A macho man will surely turn green with envy because there is something else in town that appeal and command the attention of the female gender. Nissan Murano, new darling in town, has gotten nothing that is left undone. With inspired sculpted curves, well crafted interior, and advanced technology, this is definitely something to chew!

After skipping a year, that is the 2008 model, Murano is Nissan’s midsize crossover that enjoys redesign since its first introduction in 2003. Named after an elegant sculpted glass art that comes from the islands near Venice, the two in one SUV combines the desirable attributes of a truck-based SUV, such as cargo capacity, ride height and available all-wheel drive, with the refinement, handling and comfort of a sedan.

The whole load is being pulled by a horse equated power of 265 version of Nissan’s VQ-Series 3.5litre V6 engine and receives the second-generation Xtronic CVT with Adaptive Shift Control. It consumes fuel at average approximately 18 and 23 miles per gallon in the city and highway respectively. Having the same template as D platform as the 2007 Altima, which provides a solid foundation and new lighter suspension components with increased stiffness. And with the availability of a dual-panel power sliding moonroof and second-row skylight, a new foldaway cargo organizer, heated front and rear seats, power liftgate, and power return rear seat. Nothing is forgotten in the production of the sport utility vehicle!

Accidents happen. Nissan put the safety of its occupants into consideration with the presence of driver, passenger and side airbags, although, the crash test and the total weight of the SUV are averagely impressive. If all driving codes are well obeyed, I think four stars is neither a bad grade for crash and rollover tests, nor five stars to get, in front and rear side tests!

Possible drawback in the functionality of the SUV could be the recommendation of premium fuel and its limited rear visibility, but not to worry, this is taken care of with the presence of RearView digital monitor feature.

Although the reliability data for this vehicle could not be gotten as at press time, Japan-based manufacturers are still tops in dependability and reliability while European models scored below average. And guess what the good news is, Nissan Murano has its parts assembled in the Asian country!