2018 Nissan Murano: Review, Specs, And Reliability

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2018 Nissan Murano: Review, Specs, and Reliability

Hey guys! Let's dive into everything you need to know about the 2018 Nissan Murano. This sleek mid-size SUV offers a comfortable ride, stylish design, and a host of features that make it a popular choice for families and individuals alike. In this comprehensive review, we'll cover the Murano's performance, interior, technology, safety features, and overall reliability. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Overview of the 2018 Nissan Murano

The 2018 Nissan Murano stands out in the crowded mid-size SUV market with its distinctive styling and upscale feel. It's designed to provide a premium driving experience without the premium price tag. Available in four trims – S, SV, SL, and Platinum – the Murano offers a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. All trims are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), delivering a smooth and efficient ride. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, the Murano aims to provide comfort and convenience. The 2018 Murano distinguishes itself with a stylish exterior that includes a V-motion grille and distinctive boomerang-shaped headlights and taillights, making it easily recognizable on the road. Inside, the cabin is designed with high-quality materials and a focus on comfort, featuring NASA-inspired Zero Gravity seats that provide excellent support on long journeys. The Murano also offers a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. With ample cargo space and a range of advanced safety features, the 2018 Nissan Murano is a well-rounded SUV that appeals to those seeking a blend of style, comfort, and practicality.

Performance and Engine Specs

Under the hood, the 2018 Nissan Murano boasts a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) ensures smooth and seamless gear transitions, contributing to the Murano's refined driving experience. The combination of the V6 engine and CVT results in decent fuel economy, with EPA ratings of around 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for front-wheel-drive models. All-wheel drive is available as an option for those who need extra traction in inclement weather conditions. The 2018 Murano isn't designed for off-roading, but its all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence in slippery conditions. On the road, the Murano offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and quiet driving experience. The steering is light and responsive, making the Murano easy to maneuver in city traffic. While it may not be the sportiest SUV in its class, the 2018 Nissan Murano prioritizes comfort and refinement, making it an excellent choice for long journeys. The engine's strong mid-range torque ensures effortless acceleration for passing and merging, while the CVT helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Overall, the performance of the 2018 Murano is well-suited to its intended purpose as a comfortable and stylish mid-size SUV.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2018 Nissan Murano, you'll find a well-designed and comfortable cabin with a focus on premium materials and user-friendly technology. The NASA-inspired Zero Gravity seats are a standout feature, providing excellent support and reducing fatigue on long drives. The seats are available in cloth or leather, depending on the trim level. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with an 8-inch touchscreen display serving as the centerpiece of the infotainment system. This system offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The 2018 Murano also features a range of other technology features, including a rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and keyless entry. Higher trim levels add features such as a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and Bose premium audio system. The 2018 Nissan Murano provides ample space for both passengers and cargo. The rear seats offer plenty of legroom, making it comfortable for adults to sit in the back. The cargo area provides 32.1 cubic feet of space with the rear seats up, and 67 cubic feet with the seats folded down. This is enough space for groceries, luggage, or other gear. The interior of the Murano is also well-insulated, reducing road noise and creating a quiet and relaxing environment. The overall design is modern and stylish, with soft-touch materials and attractive trim pieces. The 2018 Nissan Murano strikes a good balance between comfort, technology, and practicality, making it a desirable choice for those who value a refined and user-friendly SUV.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2018 Nissan Murano offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. The 2018 Murano also comes standard with a rearview camera, which helps to improve visibility when backing up. Higher trim levels add advanced safety technologies such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. These systems use sensors and cameras to monitor the vehicle's surroundings and provide alerts if a potential collision is detected. The automatic emergency braking system can even apply the brakes automatically to help prevent or mitigate a crash. The 2018 Nissan Murano has performed well in government and independent crash tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has given the Murano a 4-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named the Murano a Top Safety Pick, with good ratings in all crash tests. These safety ratings provide peace of mind, knowing that the 2018 Murano is designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. In addition to its crashworthiness, the Murano also offers a range of features designed to help prevent accidents from happening in the first place. The blind-spot monitoring system alerts you if there is a vehicle in your blind spot, while the rear cross-traffic alert system warns you of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space. The forward collision warning system can detect a potential collision and provide an audible and visual alert, giving you time to react. Overall, the 2018 Nissan Murano is a safe and well-equipped SUV that offers a range of features to protect you and your passengers.

Reliability and Common Issues

The 2018 Nissan Murano generally enjoys good reliability ratings, but like any vehicle, it's not without its potential issues. According to J.D. Power, the Murano receives an average reliability score, indicating that it is generally dependable. However, some owners have reported issues with the CVT transmission, which can sometimes exhibit problems such as hesitation or rough shifting. It's essential to keep up with regular maintenance, including fluid changes, to help prevent transmission problems. Other common issues reported by owners of the 2018 Nissan Murano include problems with the infotainment system, such as freezing or glitching, and issues with the power windows and locks. Some owners have also reported problems with the air conditioning system. It's essential to have any potential issues diagnosed and repaired promptly to prevent them from escalating into more significant problems. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tire rotations, can help to keep the 2018 Murano running smoothly and reliably. Before purchasing a used Murano, it's a good idea to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to check for any potential problems. Overall, the 2018 Nissan Murano is a relatively reliable SUV, but it's essential to be aware of the potential issues and take steps to prevent them. With proper care and maintenance, the Murano can provide years of dependable service. Be sure to check online forums and owner reviews for the 2018 Nissan Murano to stay informed about any recurring problems.

Trim Levels and Features

The 2018 Nissan Murano is available in four trim levels: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. Each trim level offers a different set of features and equipment, allowing you to choose the one that best meets your needs and budget. The base S trim comes standard with features such as a 3.5-liter V6 engine, CVT transmission, 18-inch alloy wheels, rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The SV trim adds features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and remote start. The SL trim includes leather upholstery, a Bose premium audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and a motion-activated liftgate. The top-of-the-line Platinum trim adds features such as 20-inch alloy wheels, heated and cooled front seats, and a power-adjustable steering wheel. All trim levels of the 2018 Nissan Murano offer a comfortable and well-equipped interior, but the higher trims add a touch of luxury and convenience. The SV trim is often considered the best value, as it offers a good balance of features and price. However, if you're looking for the ultimate in luxury and convenience, the Platinum trim is the way to go. Regardless of which trim level you choose, the 2018 Nissan Murano is a stylish and well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. Be sure to compare the features and prices of each trim level to find the one that best meets your needs.

Pros and Cons of the 2018 Nissan Murano

To give you a balanced perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2018 Nissan Murano:

Pros:

  • Comfortable Ride: The Murano offers a smooth and comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for long trips.
  • Stylish Design: The Murano's distinctive styling sets it apart from other SUVs in its class.
  • User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is easy to use, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
  • Spacious Interior: The Murano offers ample space for both passengers and cargo.
  • Good Safety Ratings: The Murano has performed well in government and independent crash tests.

Cons:

  • CVT Transmission: Some owners have reported issues with the CVT transmission.
  • Limited Off-Road Capability: The Murano is not designed for serious off-roading.
  • Average Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the Murano's fuel economy is not the best in its class.
  • Some Reliability Concerns: Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system and other components.

Overall, the 2018 Nissan Murano is a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. It's a good choice for those who prioritize comfort, style, and technology. However, it's important to be aware of the potential issues and take steps to prevent them. If you're considering a used Murano, be sure to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to check for any potential problems.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, a comprehensive look at the 2018 Nissan Murano. This SUV offers a blend of style, comfort, and technology that makes it a compelling choice in the mid-size SUV market. While it may have a few potential drawbacks, its strengths outweigh its weaknesses for many buyers. If you're in the market for a comfortable and stylish SUV, the 2018 Nissan Murano is definitely worth considering. Just remember to do your research, take it for a test drive, and have it inspected before you buy. Happy driving!