All-new 2009 Murano hits Nissan showrooms

The second generation Nissan Murano hits Nissan showroom across the region from April 2009.

Even more generously equipped than its predecessor, the latest Murano boasts:
- Extensive standard equipment list including new optional twin sunroof and powered tailgate
- Increased model choice - three grade range of base, SL and LE models
- Available electric folding rear seats
- Luxuriously appointed interior with double stitched leather upholstery
- 'Super evolutionary' styling - every body panel is new
- Revised 3.5-litre V6 engine now delivers 256hp (net); 0-100Km/h in 8.0secs
- Reduced CO2 and more efficient fuel economy
- Stiffer all-wheel drive platform and revised suspension improves driving dynamics

Murano will continue to appeal to customers who appreciate the fusion of the dynamic driving characteristics of a luxury sedan and the security, space and desirability of an SUV. But it is now quicker, more economical to run, sportier yet more refined to drive, and boasts a sumptuous, contemporary interior clad in a more elegant, all-new exterior.

All Murano customers will enjoy a specification that includes 18 inch alloys, rear privacy glass, bi-xenon headlamps, cruise control and an in-dash six-disc CD player with aux-in socket for MP3 players.

There's the convenience of Nissan's Intelligent Key for easy keyless-access and once seated, front seat occupants can find the ideal position thanks to powered front seats and steering wheel complete with memory setting.

They'll also enjoy the rich audio experience delivered by a premium Bose audio system with 10-channel amp via 11 carefully positioned speakers, including a pair of Richbass woofers mounted in the spare wheel well.

Murano's new interior is an altogether more cosseting experience with abundant use of high quality, soft touch materials and upholstery trimmed in charcoal or beige cloth or leather, with double stitched leather for added exclusivity.

Together with aluminium detailing and subtle ambient mood lighting, the cabin is now more luxury sedan than sporting SUV.

The climate control air conditioning has been enhanced with a mild flow vent which dissipates air around the cabin rather than directly at occupants.

Rear seats split 60/40 and are lowered simply by pulling a lever in the luggage area; but raising them is even easier; press a button on the dashboard or in the cargo area and the seats automatically move into position in just 8 seconds.

And the convenience continues with a power operated tailgate which can be opened and closed by remote control in 7.0 secs and 9.0 seconds respectively, via a button on the key fob, dashboard or tailgate itself.

The original Murano still turns heads and not surprisingly the new model's styling moves in an evolutionary direction to create a more curvaceous interpretation of that elegant, purposeful design. Every body panel is new and distinctive elements include pronounced wheel arches linked by similarly profiled sections at the bottom of each door for an added touch of ruggedness, side windows that taper more sharply into the roof line and a shallower headlamp profile that blends seamlessly into the new chrome-effect grille. The redesigned tail includes triangular LED tail lights and a reprofiled tailgate.

The Murano has the performance to match its sporty looks. Nissan's familiar VQ 24-valve twin cam 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine has been radically revised and now features variable induction and continuous valve timing control systems.

Combined with lots of detail changes to reduce friction and enhance refinement, the end result is net engine power rises by 26hp to 256hp developed at 6000rpm and net torque is boosted by an extra 0.3kg-m to 34.0kg-m (net) at 4400rpm on the new model when compared to the out-going Murano.

Consequently 0.9 seconds is shaved off the 0 to 100Km/h benchmark - now 8.0 seconds - and top speed rises from 199.55 Km/h to 209.21 Km/h. An extensively re-engineered Xtronic CVT gearbox plays its part, with a 20% reduction in friction improving fuel economy and shift speeds to give a more responsive feel.

A key contributor to the Murano's premium driving feel is a stiffer, all-new platform that is more resistant to lateral and twisting forces.

Together with tweaks to the geometry of the new multi-link rear suspension and revised front strut suspension, owners will enjoy even more responsive handling combined with improved levels of comfort. Speed sensitive power steering system now improves ease of driving at low speeds and gives a more direct feel at higher speeds.

Finally, All-Mode 4x4-i technology continues to provide sure-footed handling no matter how treacherous the conditions.

This intelligent permanent 4WD system distributes torque on demand to where it's needed - under normal driving conditions that means predominantly to the front wheels, but up to 50% can be sent to the rear if required.

The system is closely integrated with the standard ESP stability control.