2011 Nissan Murano

The 2011 Nissan Murano is a sports utility vehicle that is considered midsize and has a capacity for five passengers. It is known for its unique style and sophistication. Customers and exerts alike also praise the engaging driving experience offered by the Murano. It is also famous for being affordable, although some say the upper trims can get expensive.

For the 2011 version, Nissan made styling updates for the Murano. It added a new trim level as well. And even though the fuel economy has remained, the power output for this version has been slightly reduced.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Crossover Base Price: $29,290.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.7 gallons (82 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 18 city / 23 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 189.9 in. (482 cm) Width: 74.1 in. (188 cm)
Height: 67 in. (170 cm) Wheel Base: 111.2 in. (282 cm)
Curb Weight: 3877 lbs (1758 kg) Ground Clearance: 7.4 in. (18.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 31.6 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 24-valve DOHC V6 Displacement: 3.5-liters
Horsepower: 260 HP Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 240 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Transmission: CVT
0-60 mph: 7.4 seconds Max Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs (1587 kgs)
Available Trims & Engine
Option:SV 2WD MSRP: $32,860; MPG: 18 city / 23 hwy
Option:SL 2WD MSRP: $36,400; MPG: 18 city / 23 hwy
Option:LE 2WD MSRP: $38,300; MPG: 18 city / 23 hwy
Option:S AWD MSRP: $30,890; MPG: 18 city / 23 hwy
Option:SV 4WD MSRP: $34,460; MPG: 18 city / 23 hwy
Option:SL 4WD MSRP: $38,000; MPG: 18 city / 23 hwy
Option:LE 4WD MSRP: $39,900; MPG: 18 city / 23 hwy

Performance

When it comes to performance, this model has received a lot of good reviews. As a matter of fact, the power-train and handling of this baby is tough to match according to experts and customers alike. Also, quite a great number of reviewers say that this model has one of the best handling when it comes to its class.

The Nissan Murano is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine which can give you as much as 260 horsepower coupled with 240 pound-feet of torque. As a standard, all trim levels of this model come with a front-wheel drive. But if you prefer an all-wheel drive, that is an option for all trim levels as well.

Interior & Exterior

As for the exterior, what is common among all reviews is that this baby definitely stands out. If this is good or bad is the question lies. There are a few who find this model ugly. But most reviews find the exterior to be good and sleek.

It is a different story altogether when it comes to the interior. Customers as well as experts like the interior of this model because it is convenient and comfortable as well. The cabin is made of high-quality materials. The fit and finish of the 2011 Murano is considered excellent.

As for the second row passengers, they can enjoy a full headroom and legroom. They can even recline the back of their seats. And when it comes to technology, this model is also known for user-friendliness because its interior features like the optional navigation, rear entertainment systems and iPod interface are all easy to control and operate.

Safety & Reliability

As a standard, all the trims in the 2011 Murano model have antilock brakes with brake assist. They also come with other standard safety features like stability control, active front head restraints, traction control as well as front side and fell-length side curtain airbags. Although there have also been reports about poor rearward visibility, the manufacturers have given an effort towards making this model meet federal safety standards.

The Murano received ample recognition for reliability. Nissan also made it a point for this model to come with a basic warranty of three years of 6,000 miles. The 2011 Murano has limited power-train coverage for five years or 60,000 miles.

Pros & Cons

All in all, the customers and experts liked the high-quality cabin of this model. The backseat was also spacious and the performance was superb. On the other hand, the most frequent complaints were that the cargo space was a little limited compared to its rivals. Some also say that the rear visibility for this model has been compromised.

The Competition

If you still want to look for other options, you may want to look into the rivals of this model. If you want an SUV that will come close to the Murano when it comes to performance and affordability, then the Mazda CX-7 (MSRP $21,990; 20 city / 28 hwy) would be a good choice. But if you want to go for practicality, the Honda Pilot (MSRP $28,320; 17 city / 23 hwy) is the one which comes closest to the 2011 Nissan Murano.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Nissan Murano isn’t the most practical choice among crossovers, but it’s a gem for style and refinement.”Car Connection

“One of the quicker 6-cylinder midsize SUVs, Murano has few peers for smooth throttle response around town and in hilly terrain.”Consumer Guide

“High-quality cabin; spacious backseat; responsive powertrain; precise steering and confident handling; smooth ride; user-friendly controls.”Edmunds

“If you need three-row seating, the Murano shouldn’t be on your shopping list.”KBB

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