First introduced in South Africa in 2004, the Murano met a warm welcome and was included as a contender for the 2005 SA Car of The Year. In 2009 it received a number of small updates, including a mild facelift and here we are in 2012 with the latest rendition of Nissan’s flagship SUV.

The basics are all the same. The Murano is still characterised by athletic looking lines set atop a substantial mass of SUV, but for 2012, Nissan has given the Murano a makeover for contemporary premium appeal. Although still the same shape overall, the grille has been ‘cleaned up’ with the elimination of two vertical chrome pillars on either side of the prominent Nissan badge, while the bumper molding below it has also been redesigned with a deeper and wider air vent for the radiator, as well as smooth recesses for the fog lights. Other minor changes to the Murano’s styling include a new set of 18-inch alloy wheels in titanium-finish and a pair of modern looking LED taillights.

As with the exterior, the Murano’s interior has been left largely untouched, save for a few updates to the trim and a new sunroof. The Murano has always offered a generous amount of passenger space and comfort, while being loaded with luxuries. Standout features include the 11-speaker Bose sound system with 6-disc CD changer; keyless entry and drive; rear and left-hand-side cameras for parking assistance; an electronically operated tailgate; electronically operated rear seats that raise and lower in a 60:40 split configuration.

The cabin materials and their fitment is of high quality, with the heated leather seats have been given a new design pattern and, as before, they remain positively plush. The centre console now features updated and colour-coded finishes, helping to achieve a more luxurious ambiance, together with revised dials for the driver’s instrumentation that feature white backlighting. A new, electrically operated, double-panel, sunroof is now standard equipment. The sunroof can be opened fully, has a tilt function and features sunshades that can be electronically drawn across the UV-protective glass. The addition of natural light into the cabin is a welcome one, however, the sunroof was best enjoyed either closed or in its tilt setting, because despite having an integrated wind deflector, it still created a fair amount of wind noise when opened fully.

Enhancing the Murano’s luxury appeal in no small measure is its supple suspension and silky smooth drivetrain. Independent suspension all round, with a multi-link design at the rear, as well as special insulation around the shock absorber mounting points, ensures an interior free of vibration. In addition, effective sound-absorbing materials are present throughout the body and even the thickness of the carpeting is designed to reduce outside noises.

Powered by the same 3.5-litre V6 as found in the 350Z sports coupé, the Murano has 191 kW and 336 Nm at its disposal. The fact that Nissan haven’t given the Murano a full bag of beans with the 350Z’s 230 kW and 358 Nm is a little disappointing, but as it stands, the Murano will sprint from 0 – 100 km/h in 8.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 210 km/h. Nissan claim an average fuel consumption of 10.9 L/100km for the 2.3-tonne SUV, but surprisingly I managed even better at 10.6 L/100km, which is pretty good considering I reveled in the V6′s soundtrack on occasion too. The tried and trusted V6 is silky smooth in its operation. It’s quiet and unobtrusive when it needs to be, but sings a rare and sweet sounding naturally aspirated V6 tune when you plant your right foot.

The V6 is combined with a CVT transmission, a system that’s prone to loathsome comments in almost any vehicle equipped with one, but you know what, the Murano maybe the first exception. With 6 preset ratios, the CVT can be operated in manual-like, sequential mode, which can be useful when overtaking and needing to set the engine closer to it’s peak torque output at 4 400 r/min. The rest of the time, the Murano is happy to be left to its own devices, offering uninterrupted acceleration without the engine reaching for the rev limit with every prod of the throttle, as is so often the case. When you do decide to make haste and the engine does muster up every last ounce of power in an effort to please, it does exactly that, ‘please’. The momentum may take a while to build as the CVT gradually gets on terms with the power being sent to all four wheels, but you’re left with a wonderful V6 soundtrack ringing in your ears that makes it so obvious why Nissan declare the Murano to have the soul of a sports car; even if it is a detuned one.

While it may sound like a sports car when you wind it up, it doesn’t like to corner like one. The suspension that does so well at providing a luxurious ride, makes little effort to rise to the occasion if you decide to dive into your favourite corner. While the independent suspension does a good job of absorbing mid-turn bumps and keeping the Murano on your chosen line, it’s simply too soft and allows too much body roll to translate into fun. Sure, you can make swift progress with plenty of tyre noise and the VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) working up a sweat, but you’ll be working hard to stay in your seat too. Driving the Murano at seven tenths instead of ten, with the V6 singing away, a fresh breeze filtering through the sunroof and a steady beat from Bose sound system, is the best way to enjoy this luxurious Nissan.

What we like…

• Interior space, comfort, equipment and new sunroof.
• Smooth and uninterrupted acceleration from the X-Tronic CVT gearbox.
• Why would you buy an Infiniti FX37? Do you really want or need to clip every apex in your SUV?!

What we would like…

• A single alert when using the power-assisted tailgate – the continuous beeping is a bit much.
• Park-distance control in front, as the front bumper extends surreptitiously beyond the bonnet.

Nissan has posted two pictures of its production ready, 2013 Nissan Pathfinder, on Facebook. Most significantly for the new Pathfinder, its chassis has changed from being the old, strong, body-on-frame-SUV-type, which ran on Nissan Navara underpinnings, to a conventional uni-body structure.

We have to say the new body looks absolutely brilliant too. It clearly moves away from the competent and yet slightly agricultural vibe of its forbear, and sticks identically to the styling of the pre-production 2013 Pathfinder that Nissan showed off earlier in the year.

The uni-body FF-L platform, as used by the Nissan Murano, is substantially lighter (227 kg) than the existing vehicle as a result and is better suited to everyday urban needs with improved aerodynamics and interior space. Does this mean the end of the Nissan Murano though? They sound like identical cars now. As far as we can see there are only three potential issues with the new Pathfinder. One, it’s gotten more diminutive since the last one and is even being classed by some as a ‘crossover’ vehicle now. Two, Nissan have said it will have the 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine in some markets and that will be mated to a CVT transmission. No, say it isn’t so Nissan, say it isn’t so. Thirdly, that low front apron with twinkly fog lights looks like it won’t be very useful when off-roading.

The Pathfinder never ate up off-road conditions and now the 2013 model looks to be much more car-like in its design and layout. From the side, you would never suspect the 2013 Pathfinder was a relative of the old Pathfinder. The 2013 Pathfinder features that must-have swooping roofline and the doors have luxurious sculpting rather than the flat sheet metal of the old model. It is the same story on the rear; you no longer get the flat rear hatch door. In its place is a more rounded and shapely hatch that boasts a sharp spoiler.

Nissan’s new EZ Flex Seating System will give the Pathfinder an amazing 1.3 million different seating configurations and will be able to hold seven passengers. This puts it in line to compete with the Chevrolet Captiva, Chevrolet Trailblazer (that will have arrived by 2013) and Toyota Fortuner. Assuming Nissan can find a range of engines other than the 3.5-litre V6 that is. South Africa can expect the much anticipated new model to arrive in 2013.

Nissan has blown the SUV market wide open! It might seem like the most unlikely story of the year, but these are the first pictures of the a drop-top version of the Nissan Murano, unveiled at the LA show.

Called the Murano CrossCabriolet, Nissan is describing the car as “the world’s first four-wheel-drive crossover convertible”.

In order to make the switch from a fixed metal top to a removable roof, the Murano has been converted from a five-door to a two-door. This gives a ‘sporty stance’ with the roof either up or down.

The use of a traditional fabric roof, which stores behind the rear headrests, helps to keep weight down and preserve the Murano’s short rear overhang.

Although details are scarce at this stage, Nissan has described the interior as “premium-level”, so expect leather upholstery, electric seats, sat-nav and climate control as standard. The newcomer has room for four adults plus luggage, even with the top down.

The CrossCabriolet has reportedly been on the drawing board for some time, but Nissan has been reluctant to pursue it due to the economic situation. Just don’t expect to see too many CrossCabriolets on the road – Nissan bosses have admitted this is more of an image-building exercise than a money-making venture.

Adapted from AutoExpress

A few weeks ago we brought you a test on the Nissan Murano luxury SUV. Following in its footsteps in size at least, is the Nissan Qashqai n-tec, of which just 200 will be available. Smaller and more economical, the Qashqai n-tec continues the Qashqai’s combination of practicality and convenience, but comes with a styling makeover. Nissan’s decision to introduce the limited edition n-tec model stems from the enthusiastic welcome the Qashqai received upon its launch in August 2007 and the continued sales success since, with South Africa boasting over 4 500 Qashqai owners.

Interior
The interior of the standard specification Qashqai n-tec remains unchanged from that of the 2.0 Accentia model. This means cloth seats, a leather covered steering wheel, and convenience functions such as, rain sensing wipers; dual zone climate control; Bluetooth handsfree integration; electrically operated windows; onboard computer; outside temperature display; height adjustable headlights and more.

However, should you specify the optional accessories package your n-tec will also come with leather seats and a ‘infotainment centre’. The leather seats are comfortable – although adjusting the lumbar support is near impossible as the control is located parallel to the B-pillar. A nice touch is the white stitching, as well as ‘Qashqai’ embroidered into the backrests of the front seats.

Unfortunately our experience with the infotainment system was not a pleasant one. It’s an aftermarket unit that looks it. The sat-nav didn’t work thanks to a software error and we just didn’t find it an intuitive system to live with. Of concern, is that fact that you can watch TV while the car is in motion – a point that must surely detract from the 5-star Euro-NCAP safety rating and something that should be prevented by automatically turning off the function when the car travels over 5 or 10 km/h. These accessories also come at a price, R17 500 to be exact – Nissan, we suggest you ditch the infotainment and add value with a sunroof instead.

Apart from this isolated niggle, we found the Qashqai offered a very likeable cabin. The air-conditioning works well, there’s enough storage space (410-litres in the boot), passengers have adequate head and legroom, while interior noise levels are acceptable despite the large 18-inch tyres. The styling of the dashboard is uncluttered, almost minimalist in its appeal and the plastics are well put together.

Exterior
It’s on the outside that the Qashqai n-tec sets itself apart from its stablemates. Enhancements include brushed aluminium roof rails, door handles and front grille, tinted glass for the rear windows and a set of 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. The Qashqai was not a bad looking compact-SUV to begin with and we think the cosmetic changes to the n-tec make it one of the best lookers in its class.

The Drive
The front-wheel-drive Qashqai n-tec surprised us in the handling department. The ride is firm, yet comfortable, and steering is accurate and well weighted, delivering a driving experience as confident as the car looks. With a bigger set of running shoes fitted, the Qashqai is up to the task of hustling through the corners and does so without giving the driver any surprises. A light clutch action, automatically adjustable speed-sensitive powersteering and elevated seating position over that of conventional sedans, makes the Qashqai an easy car to live with around town – where it’ll spend most of its time. Between towns or cities the n-tec cruises comfortably, with low interior noise levels and enough grunt to keep a comfortable cruising speed. Admittedly, the short section of dirt road we covered was in fairly good condition. Nevertheless, the n-tec tracked well, navigated one or two corrugations without a fuss and the interior and luggage areas remained dust free.

Performance
Driven by a 2,0-litre petrol engine with 102 kW and 198 N.m of torque, the Qashqai performs adequately. With power being delivered relatively high up the rev range – peak torque is reached at 4 400 rpm and peak power at 5 200 rpm – one tends to swap cogs to maintain speed on our country roads. Around town however, the Qashqai n-tec rolls along without much effort and will reach 100 km/from pull-away in 10.2 seconds. For what it’s worth, top speed is 192 km/h.

What we like…

• Good looks.
• An appealing vehicle for everyday town driving, capable of exploring dirt roads on the weekends.

What we would like…

• Give us the standard radio/cd and the choice of a sunroof, instead of the aftermarket ‘infotainment’ system.

ML, Q7 and X5 – ubiquitous German SUVs as common as boerewors at a braai. So who’s bringing something special to the party? There’s always one isn’t there?! In this case it’s Nissan with their new Murano SUV. First introduced in South Africa in 2004, the Murano met a warm welcome and was included as a contender for the 2005 SA Car of The Year. Times have changed however and now almost every manufacturer offers an SUV, whether compact, mid-sized or just plain gigantic.

Interior
Although not quite gigantic inside, the leather trimmed interior of the Murano boasts more than enough head and legroom for just about all shapes and sizes of people. Rear legroom is impressive and rear passengers benefit from adjustable back rests, which, incidentally can fold down in a 60/40 split and be returned to the upright position at the touch of a button, thanks to electric motors hidden beneath the seats. Cargo space is 402-litres, expandable to 838-litres with rear seats folded down. The driver and front passenger seats are very comfortable and feature conveniences such as electrically adjustable lumbar support, position and heating. In fact, electronics are an important part of the Murano’s luxury appeal. The driver instrument cluster is clear and aesthetically pleasing, with chrome dial surrounds and a warm ambient glow adding to the upmarket appeal of the Murano.

Standard equipment includes, an 11-speaker Bose sound system with 6-disc CD changer; Bluetooth connectivity; Voice command system for the sound system and telephone; Keyless entry and drive; Rear and left-hand-side cameras for parking assistance; Electronically operated tailgate; and multi-function steering wheel for functions such as cruise control, voice command, sound and telephone. And it’s not just the gadgets that make the Murano a luxurious SUV. The car offers an impressively quiet ride. Even at highway speeds or over coarse tarmac, the wind or tyre noise is never intrusive, in fact, it’s conspicuous in its absence.

Part of the secret of the Murano’s success in this area has been the addition of a newly developed suspension, which enhances vehicle stability while also providing a more comfortable ride than the previous generation. Front and rear mounting points have also been specially strengthened to reduce the amount of vibration transmitted to the interior and further improve body stability. In addition special sound-absorbing materials have been added throughout the body, effectively reducing or blocking outside noises, while new floor carpeting reduces wind noise significantly. The Murano boasts a well insulated and polished cabin.

Exterior
The Nissan Murano’s styling challenges the conventional. The strong Murano DNA has been continued in this new generation, despite not a single body panel having been carried-over from the first Murano. The steeply raked design from the front bumper to the end of the A-pillar sets the Murano apart from most other SUV’s roaming the urban jungle. The High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-Xenon front headlights, which work very well at night, integrate with the front grille to give the Murano a futuristic and unique face. Towards the rear, the up-swept rear window contrasts with the opposing angle of the rear C-pillar profile and tail-light edges. A set of 18-inch alloy wheels are standard and fill the defined wheel arches. The Murano’s styling will inevitably appeal to some, while alienating others, however, we have not yet driven an SUV that received as many looks or comments during our time with the car.

The Drive
The first generation Murano was heralded by Nissan as having “the heart of a sports car, in the stylish and sophisticated form of a premium SUV”. And while we can’t argue with this statement, it is clear that the Murano’s nature is more sophisticated and premium than sports car. Part of the reason why we say this, is because the high seating position gives the feeling of sitting on the car, rather than in the car. When travelling at speed, the sensation of sitting high up with the car below you, results in you backing off the throttle when approaching some corners. After entering the turn, bodyroll is not as pronounced as one might expect, thanks to the newly developed suspension we mention earlier with its four-wheel built-in rebound springs. With permanent four-wheel drive, the Murano offers positive levels of grip and with Nissan’s ‘Intelligent All-Mode 4×4′ drivetrain, torque can be distributed on demand to where it’s needed. Under normal driving conditions much of the torque is sent to the front wheels, with up to 50 percent being channelled to the rear wheels when needed. The driver can lock the drive to all wheels in particularly challenging conditions by flicking a switch on the central console, with a torque split ratio at 50/50 front to rear.

The new Murano also features a new speed-sensitive power steering system that tightens as speed increases, however, the steering itself provides no feel to speak of and is somewhat over assisted. However, the new Murano is an enjoyable SUV to drive. The light steering makes it easy to drive in town and the luxurious and insulated interior is a relaxing and comfortable place to be. But perhaps the biggest single contributor to these characteristics is the X-Tronic continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Performance
The latest incarnation of Nissan’s X-Tronic transmission operates with 20% less internal friction than earlier examples and, coupled with the updated gearbox software, is responsible for harnessing peak torque from the engine during hard acceleration, rather than peak power. This means torque is delivered in a linear fashion making acceleration brisk and uninterrupted. At the heart of the new 2 380 kg Murano, lies a more advanced version of the proven 3,5-litre V6 petrol engine. Developing 191 kW and peak torque of 336 Nm at 4 400 rpm, the Murano sprints from 0-100 km/h in 8 seconds (0.9 seconds quicker than before) and reaches a top speed of 210 km/h. Thanks also to the new transmission, the updated V6 offers improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. Nissan claim an EU combined-cycle figure of 10.9 l/100km (1.1 l/100km less than before) with CO2 emissions at 261 g/km. The Murano cruises effortlessly and will comfortably cover long distances without complaint. Although equipped with a four-wheel-drive drivetrain, the Murano, like most SUV’s, is limited to how far off the beaten track it can venture. However, most owners will be more than satisfied with the Murano’s abilities on the school run, game drives, launching their boat at the dam or simply exploring some of our country’s dirt roads.

What we like…

• Interior refinement, space and comfort levels.
• Smooth and uninterrupted acceleration from the X-Tronic CVT gearbox.
• Comprehensive equipment levels as standard.

What we would like…

• A single alert when using the power-assisted tailgate – the continuous beeping is a bit much.
• A stereo jack and/or USB port for an external MP3 player.
• Park-distance control in front, as the front bumper extends surreptitiously beyond the bonnet.