2025 Nissan Murano: US News & World Report Review
Let's dive into what the 2025 Nissan Murano has to offer, especially through the lens of US News & World Report. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that blends style, comfort, and reliability, the Murano is definitely one to keep on your radar. In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know, from performance and interior features to safety ratings and overall value, all while referencing the trusted insights from US News & World Report. So, buckle up and let's get started!
Overview of the Nissan Murano
The Nissan Murano has always been a standout in the mid-size SUV segment, known for its sleek design and comfortable ride. US News & World Report consistently highlights the Murano's strengths, particularly its upscale interior and user-friendly technology. The Murano typically offers a V6 engine, providing a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. Inside, you'll find a spacious cabin with premium materials, making it a comfortable choice for both daily commutes and long road trips. Safety is also a key focus, with many advanced safety features available. When considering the 2025 model, we anticipate these core attributes to remain, with potential enhancements in technology and efficiency.
What US News & World Report Says
When US News & World Report evaluates vehicles, they look at a variety of factors, including performance, interior quality, safety, reliability, and critic reviews. For the Nissan Murano, they often praise its comfortable seats, quiet cabin, and smooth ride. However, they also point out areas where it could improve, such as its cargo space compared to rivals and the simplicity of its infotainment system. It’s essential to consider these points to see if the Murano aligns with your specific needs. The Murano generally scores well in safety tests, which is a crucial factor for many buyers. By consulting US News & World Report, you get a well-rounded view of the Murano's pros and cons, helping you make an informed decision.
Key Features and Specs of the 2025 Model
While specifics for the 2025 Nissan Murano are still emerging, we can make some educated guesses based on previous models and industry trends. Expect a continued focus on comfort and technology. The engine will likely remain a V6, possibly with minor tweaks to improve fuel economy. Inside, look for an updated infotainment system with a larger touchscreen and enhanced connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety tech should also see improvements, with more standard driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The exterior design might receive subtle updates to keep it fresh and modern. Keep an eye on US News & World Report for detailed reviews and ratings as more information becomes available.
Performance and Handling
Typically, the Nissan Murano is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, providing around 260 horsepower. This engine offers a smooth and responsive driving experience, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. The Murano's suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and providing a relaxed ride. While it's not designed for off-roading or sporty handling, it excels in providing a comfortable and composed driving experience. US News & World Report often notes that the Murano's performance is adequate for most drivers, though some competitors offer more engaging driving dynamics. Overall, the Murano prioritizes comfort and ease of use over outright performance.
Interior Comfort and Technology
One of the standout features of the Nissan Murano is its interior. Nissan has a knack for creating comfortable and stylish cabins, and the Murano is no exception. Expect premium materials, supportive seats, and a well-designed dashboard. The 2025 model will likely feature an updated infotainment system with a larger touchscreen, improved graphics, and faster response times. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto should be standard, along with features like wireless charging and a premium audio system. The Murano also offers ample passenger space, making it a good choice for families. US News & World Report frequently praises the Murano's interior, noting its upscale feel and user-friendly technology.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a top priority for most car buyers, and the Nissan Murano typically scores well in this area. It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. Higher trim levels add features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The Murano has historically earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). US News & World Report takes these ratings into account when evaluating the Murano, further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable SUV.
Trim Levels and Options
The Nissan Murano typically comes in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. Common trims include the S, SV, SL, and Platinum. The base S trim offers essential features like a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic emergency braking, and keyless entry. Moving up to the SV trim adds features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The SL trim includes leather upholstery, a premium audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. The top-of-the-line Platinum trim offers all the bells and whistles, including heated and cooled front seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and premium interior trim. When choosing a trim level, consider your budget and desired features. US News & World Report can help you compare the different trims and determine which one offers the best value.
Fuel Efficiency and MPG
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many SUV buyers. The Nissan Murano, with its V6 engine, typically offers decent fuel economy for its class. Expect around 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. While some competitors offer slightly better fuel economy, the Murano strikes a good balance between power and efficiency. Keep in mind that real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving conditions and habits. US News & World Report provides detailed fuel economy data for the Murano, helping you estimate your potential fuel costs.
Pricing and Value
The Nissan Murano is generally priced competitively within the mid-size SUV segment. The base S trim typically starts around $33,000, while the top-of-the-line Platinum trim can reach $45,000 or more. When evaluating the Murano's value, consider its features, performance, safety, and reliability. US News & World Report assesses the Murano's value proposition by comparing it to other SUVs in its class. Factors like resale value, maintenance costs, and warranty coverage also play a role. Overall, the Murano offers good value for buyers seeking a comfortable, stylish, and well-equipped SUV.
Pros and Cons According to US News & World Report
To summarize, here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Nissan Murano, according to US News & World Report:
Pros:
- Comfortable and upscale interior
- Smooth and quiet ride
- User-friendly technology
- Strong safety ratings
Cons:
- Limited cargo space compared to rivals
- Infotainment system could be more advanced
- Not as sporty as some competitors
Alternatives to the Nissan Murano
If the Nissan Murano doesn't quite fit your needs, there are several other mid-size SUVs to consider. The Toyota Venza, Honda Passport, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Kia Telluride are all popular choices. Each of these SUVs offers its own unique blend of features, performance, and value. The Toyota Venza is known for its fuel efficiency and hybrid powertrain. The Honda Passport offers more cargo space and off-road capability. The Hyundai Santa Fe provides a good balance of features and value. The Kia Telluride is praised for its spacious interior and upscale design. US News & World Report offers detailed comparisons of these SUVs, helping you find the best option for your needs.
Conclusion
The 2025 Nissan Murano is shaping up to be a strong contender in the mid-size SUV market. With its comfortable interior, smooth ride, and advanced safety features, it's a good choice for buyers seeking a refined and reliable vehicle. While it may not offer the most cargo space or sporty handling, it excels in providing a comfortable and user-friendly driving experience. By consulting US News & World Report, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the Murano's strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision. Keep an eye out for further updates and reviews as the 2025 model becomes available.