2010 Nissan Murano LE Test Drive

!±8± 2010 Nissan Murano LE Test Drive

I recently had a wonderful Nissan Murano SUV for a week-long test drive. The Nissan Murano is a clean-looking, and functional SUV. The Murano is a mid-sized, family-oriented SUV that is attractive, versatile, and well-equipped.

The Murano was redesigned for 2009 and the 2010 model hasn't been changed very much. The instrument panel has been rearranged and some of the gauges and interior are slightly more upscale. Some people like the exterior looks while others are somewhat critical. The fenders arch upwards and slightly out over the wheels. This is not unlike several other SUV's, but I like the looks and think that it gives a strong, bold appearance.

The Nissan Murano is set on the same platform as the midsize Altima sedan, so it is classified as a "mid-size SUV." It seats five comfortably and is available in three trim levels - S, SL, and LE. Our test model was the high-end LE, but with front-wheel drive. All the Murano models are available in either All-Wheel Drive or front-wheel drive. The deep red exterior color on the test model was called "Merlot."

The Nissan Murano is powered by a 265 horsepower, 3.5 liter, V-6 engine matched with a Continuously Variable Transmission. The CVT automatic works well and the engine provides all the power needed for a mid-sized vehicle. Towing capacity is listed at 3,500 pounds, but that is enough for small camping trailers and boats.

The interior uses a lot of soft plastics wood tones, and more upscale materials than previous models. The instrument cluster is pleasingly arranged and uses a subdued orange lighting instead of the bright blue, black, or white more commonly found in SUV's. The controls are easy to use and there are plenty of storage bins and compartments.

A long list of standard equipment was listed on the Spec Sheet as "comfort and convenience" items. These included an eight-way powered driver's seat and a four-way powered passenger seat. Front and rear seats were heated and all upholstery was leather. A rearview backup camera was standard and I am definitely a big supporter of the backup camera for all vehicles. I like the powered tilt and telescoping steering wheel and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

For safety purposes, the Nissan Murano has front-side airbags, curtain-side airbags, traction control, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitoring, and electronic brake assist. It scored 5 stars in the government safety ratings for side crashes, 4 stars in frontal crash, and 4 stars in rollover tests.

Our test model had an MSRP of ,580. The only add-on was floor mats at 5 and delivery charges of 0. The bottom sticker price showed ,565. EPA fuel ratings for the Murano are 18 city and 23 highway, although I averaged 24 for the entire week of driving. Maybe I just didn't put the pedal to the metal very often during the test drive period.

The 2010 Nissan Murano is a very functional and useful mid-sized SUV that looks good both inside and out. Check it out yourself at a Nissan dealership.