Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2018 Nissan Murano, a ride that blends sleek design with a comfortable interior. If you're considering this model, or just curious about its features, specs, and overall value, you've come to the right place. We'll break down everything you need to know, from trim levels to performance, so you can make an informed decision. Ready to get started?

Overview of the 2018 Nissan Murano

The 2018 Nissan Murano represents a sweet spot in the mid-size SUV market, offering a blend of style, comfort, and technology that sets it apart from some of its more utilitarian competitors. Nissan designed this vehicle with a focus on providing a premium experience without the premium price tag, making it an attractive option for families and individuals alike. At its core, the Murano delivers a smooth and refined ride, thanks to its capable V6 engine and well-tuned suspension. This isn't your typical rugged SUV built for off-roading; instead, it excels on paved roads, providing a comfortable and quiet cabin for both driver and passengers. The exterior styling of the 2018 Murano is eye-catching, featuring a distinctive V-motion grille, boomerang-shaped headlights, and a floating roof design that gives it a modern and sophisticated look. These design elements contribute to the Murano's curb appeal, making it stand out in a crowded segment. Inside, the Murano offers a spacious and well-appointed interior with high-quality materials and comfortable seating. The Zero Gravity seats, inspired by NASA technology, are a particular highlight, providing excellent support and reducing fatigue on long drives. The cabin is also packed with technology features, including Nissan's infotainment system, which offers smartphone integration, navigation, and a range of connectivity options. Safety is another area where the 2018 Murano shines, with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features available to help prevent accidents. These include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking, providing added peace of mind for drivers and passengers. Overall, the 2018 Nissan Murano is a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling combination of style, comfort, technology, and safety. It's a great choice for those who want a premium driving experience without breaking the bank.

Trims and Key Features

The 2018 Nissan Murano comes in several trim levels, each offering a unique set of features and amenities to cater to different preferences and budgets. Understanding the differences between these trims is essential to finding the right Murano for your needs. Let's take a closer look at the key trims and what they offer:

• S: The base S trim is well-equipped with standard features such as a rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen display. It also includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to make hands-free calls and stream music from your smartphone. Safety features include automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning, providing added protection on the road. The S trim offers a great value for those looking for a comfortable and reliable SUV without all the bells and whistles.
• SV: Stepping up to the SV trim adds several desirable features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. These advanced safety technologies help to enhance awareness and prevent accidents. The SV trim also includes remote start, allowing you to warm up or cool down the cabin before you get in. Other upgrades include roof rails, fog lights, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, adding to the Murano's style and convenience. With its combination of safety features and convenience amenities, the SV trim offers a sweet spot for many buyers.
• SL: The SL trim takes luxury to the next level with leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium Bose audio system. It also includes a surround-view camera system, providing a 360-degree view of the vehicle's surroundings for easier parking and maneuvering. Other features include a power liftgate, which makes loading and unloading cargo a breeze, and ambient interior lighting, which adds a touch of elegance to the cabin. The SL trim is perfect for those who want a more upscale driving experience with added comfort and convenience.
• Platinum: At the top of the lineup is the Platinum trim, which includes all the features of the lower trims plus even more luxurious amenities. These include heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable steering column. The Platinum trim also features unique exterior styling elements, such as 20-inch alloy wheels and chrome accents, giving it a distinctive look. Advanced safety technologies include lane departure warning and lane keeping assist, helping to keep you safe on the road. With its combination of luxury, technology, and safety features, the Platinum trim represents the ultimate expression of the 2018 Nissan Murano.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Under the hood, the 2018 Nissan Murano boasts a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers a respectable 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to maximize fuel efficiency and provide smooth acceleration. The Murano is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, allowing you to choose the drivetrain that best suits your needs and driving conditions. Performance-wise, the 2018 Murano offers a comfortable and composed ride. The V6 engine provides ample power for daily driving, and the CVT delivers seamless gear changes. While the Murano isn't designed for off-roading, the available all-wheel drive system provides added traction and stability in slippery conditions. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and road imperfections with ease. Steering is light and responsive, making the Murano easy to maneuver in city traffic. Overall, the 2018 Murano offers a refined and enjoyable driving experience.

Fuel economy is another important consideration for SUV buyers, and the 2018 Nissan Murano delivers respectable numbers in this area. According to EPA estimates, the front-wheel drive Murano achieves 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel drive model sees a slight decrease in fuel economy, with ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. These figures are competitive for the mid-size SUV segment and make the Murano a relatively fuel-efficient choice. Of course, actual fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions, habits, and maintenance. To maximize fuel efficiency, it's important to drive conservatively, avoid excessive idling, and keep your tires properly inflated. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tune-ups, can also help to improve fuel economy. Overall, the 2018 Nissan Murano offers a good balance of performance and fuel economy, making it a practical choice for daily driving.

Interior and Technology

Inside the 2018 Nissan Murano, you'll find a thoughtfully designed and well-appointed cabin that prioritizes comfort and convenience. The interior is spacious and airy, with plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. High-quality materials are used throughout, creating a premium feel. The Zero Gravity seats, inspired by NASA technology, are a standout feature, providing excellent support and reducing fatigue on long drives. The seats are also heated and ventilated in the higher trims, adding to the comfort. The dashboard is clean and modern, with easy-to-read gauges and intuitive controls. The infotainment system is integrated into the center console, with a touchscreen display that provides access to navigation, audio, and other features. The system is relatively easy to use, with clear graphics and responsive touch inputs. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are available, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system.

Technology is another area where the 2018 Nissan Murano shines. A range of advanced features are available, including a premium Bose audio system, which delivers crisp and clear sound throughout the cabin. A surround-view camera system provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle's surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier. Other available technologies include adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, and blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot. Safety is also a top priority, with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features available. These include automatic emergency braking, which can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a collision, and lane departure warning, which alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane. Overall, the 2018 Nissan Murano offers a compelling combination of comfort, convenience, and technology, making it a great choice for those who want a premium driving experience.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount when choosing a vehicle, and the 2018 Nissan Murano comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. These features work together to help prevent accidents and minimize injuries in the event of a collision. In addition to these standard features, the Murano offers a range of advanced safety technologies that can help to enhance awareness and prevent accidents. These include:

• Automatic Emergency Braking: This system can detect a potential collision and automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate the impact. It's a valuable feature that can help to reduce the severity of accidents.
• Blind-Spot Monitoring: This system alerts you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot, making it safer to change lanes. It's especially useful in heavy traffic or on the highway.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: This system warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. It can help to prevent accidents in parking lots and other crowded areas.
• Lane Departure Warning: This system alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane without signaling. It can help to prevent accidents caused by distracted driving or fatigue.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: This system automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. It can help to reduce driver fatigue on long trips.

The 2018 Nissan Murano has also been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). In NHTSA testing, the Murano received an overall safety rating of five stars, the highest possible rating. In IIHS testing, the Murano earned a Top Safety Pick+ award, indicating that it provides excellent protection in a variety of crash scenarios. These safety ratings provide added peace of mind for drivers and passengers, knowing that the Murano is designed to protect them in the event of a collision. Overall, the 2018 Nissan Murano is a safe and reliable SUV that offers a wide range of safety features to help prevent accidents and protect you and your passengers.

Is the 2018 Nissan Murano a Good Choice?

So, is the 2018 Nissan Murano a good choice for you? That really depends on your specific needs and preferences. However, it's a solid contender in the mid-size SUV category, offering a blend of style, comfort, and features that make it an attractive option for many buyers. If you're looking for a comfortable and refined SUV that's not afraid to show off a little bit of style, the Murano is definitely worth considering. Its distinctive exterior design, upscale interior, and comfortable seating make it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip. The Murano also offers a good balance of performance and fuel economy, making it a practical choice for daily driving. The V6 engine provides ample power for most situations, and the CVT delivers smooth and efficient performance. While it's not the most fuel-efficient SUV in its class, it's certainly competitive, and you shouldn't have to break the bank at the gas pump.

Of course, the Murano isn't perfect. Some reviewers have criticized its infotainment system for being a bit dated and not as intuitive as some of its competitors. Additionally, the Murano doesn't offer a third-row seat, so if you need to carry more than five passengers, you'll need to look elsewhere. However, if these aren't deal-breakers for you, the 2018 Nissan Murano is definitely worth a look. It's a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. Before making a final decision, it's always a good idea to test drive a few different SUVs to see which one feels best to you. Consider your budget, your needs, and your preferences, and choose the vehicle that best fits your lifestyle.

Conclusion

The 2018 Nissan Murano stands out as a stylish and comfortable mid-size SUV that offers a premium driving experience without the premium price tag. With its distinctive design, well-appointed interior, and a range of advanced features, the Murano is a compelling choice for those who want a vehicle that's both practical and luxurious. Whether you're drawn to its comfortable Zero Gravity seats, its smooth and refined ride, or its comprehensive suite of safety features, the Murano has a lot to offer. While it may not be the perfect SUV for everyone, it's certainly worth considering if you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that stands out from the crowd. So, if you're looking for a vehicle that combines style, comfort, and value, be sure to check out the 2018 Nissan Murano. You might just find that it's the perfect SUV for you.