How Does Nissan Murano Performance and Towing Compare to Other Midsize SUVs?

The Nissan Murano generates 241 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged engine with a maximum towing rating of 1,500 lbs, positioning it as a smooth suburban cruiser rather than a heavy-duty hauler. Midsize crossover rivals such as the Honda Passport and Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offer tow ratings up to 5,000 pounds with larger V6 or higher-output powertrains, whereas the Murano prioritizes luxury-level cabin quietness, responsive low-end torque, and effortless highway merging over heavy trailer pulling.

Under the hood, the Murano features a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo inline-four engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, replacing the continuous variable transmission and V6 engine of prior generations. This mechanical setup delivers prompt gear changes and strong acceleration off the line. For drivers who rarely tow more than a light utility trailer, jet ski, or hitch-mounted bike rack, the 1,500-lb towing capacity provides ample utility while preserving the vehicle’s refined riding characteristics.

When evaluated against traditional two-row midsize crossovers, the Murano stands out for its serene driving demeanor. The power delivery is linear and controlled, engineered specifically to offer a calm, effortless drive. Commuters traveling from Shackle Island along Old Shackle Island Road into the city will find that the retuned suspension absorbs road imperfections with ease, delivering a composure similar to luxury vehicles carrying significantly higher price tags.

For buyers interested in inspecting the vehicle in person or speaking with our team, our showroom address in Gallatin is easy to reach, or you can give us a quick call at (615) 442-3090 to check current availability.

Table of Contents

• What Are the Key Engine Specs, Fuel Requirements, and AWD Systems on the Nissan Murano?
• How Efficient Is the Nissan Murano for Commuters?
• What Technology, Dual 12.3-Inch Displays, and Bose Audio Features Come in the Murano?
• How Does Nissan Safety Shield 360 and the 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor Protect Passengers?
• Common Buyer Questions About Nissan Murano Performance and Specs
• Test Drive and Finance Your Nissan Murano

What Are the Key Engine Specs, Fuel Requirements, and AWD Systems on the Nissan Murano?

Every Nissan Murano comes equipped with a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo 4-cylinder engine that produces 241 hp at 5,600 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm, routed through a 9-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive comes standard on the entry-level SV grade, while Intelligent All-Wheel Drive is available on the SV and comes as standard equipment on the upper SL and Platinum trims.

The engine utilizes variable compression technology, continuously adjusting its compression ratio between 8:1 for maximum performance and 14:1 for higher operating efficiency. While 91-octane premium unleaded fuel is recommended to achieve peak horsepower and fastest throttle response, the engine is fully compatible with regular unleaded gasoline for daily driving without risking engine damage.

First-time buyers looking at the redesigned Murano usually ask about whether they need premium fuel for the variable-compression turbo before taking a test drive, and our team clarifies that regular fuel works fine for daily routes while premium unlocks maximum engine responsiveness.

The available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system monitors wheel slip, steering angle, and throttle input in real time. It automatically transfers power between the front and rear wheels to maintain traction during acceleration and cornering. Drivers in Portland taking local routes over moderate elevation changes or driving through wet pavement during seasonal rainstorms benefit directly from the added grip and stability provided by the system.

Shoppers comparing regional options can visit our Hendersonville area Nissan hub to explore specs or review our inventory of pre-owned Nissan Murano options.

Engine & Performance

Powertrain specs by trim

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy and range by trim

How Efficient Is the Nissan Murano for Commuters?

The Nissan Murano achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 21 mpg city / 27 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. Fitted with an 18.7-gallon fuel tank, the vehicle provides a driving range of approximately 430 miles between fill-ups under typical highway cruising conditions.

The 9-speed automatic transmission plays a major role in achieving these figures by maintaining low engine rpm at highway cruising speeds. By replacing the former continuous variable transmission, the 9-speed unit provides discrete gear ratios that maximize efficiency during steady-state driving while keeping cabin engine noise to a minimum.

• 21 mpg city estimated efficiency for urban stop-and-go driving
• 27 mpg highway estimated efficiency for long-distance highway travel
• 23 mpg combined overall fuel economy rating
• 18.7-gallon total fuel tank capacity

For commuters planning a vehicle upgrade, taking advantage of current vehicle equity can lower monthly costs. Drivers can easily value your trade-in online to see how much their current car is worth before visiting our lot.

What Technology, Dual 12.3-Inch Displays, and Bose Audio Features Come in the Murano?

The cabin of the Nissan Murano features standard dual 12.3-inch displays housed within a single horizontal display panel, combining a digital driver instrument cluster with a central touchscreen infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and Google built-in integration come standard across all trims, providing direct access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and app connectivity without needing a wired phone connection.

Interior comfort is centered around front and outboard rear Zero Gravity seats, engineered to minimize pressure points and reduce physical fatigue during long drives. On the range-topping Platinum trim, the cabin is upgraded with semi-aniline quilted leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats with massage functions, heated rear outboard seats, a color head-up display, and a panoramic moonroof that floods the interior with natural light.

Audio performance is enhanced on SL and Platinum models through a custom-tuned Bose 10-speaker premium audio system. This sound setup uses custom speaker placement and digital signal processing designed specifically for the Murano’s acoustic profile, delivering clear highs and deep bass throughout the cabin.

For owners looking to customize their vehicle’s cabin or cargo layout, our dealership carries a full lineup of genuine Nissan parts and accessories, including all-weather floor liners, cargo stabilizers, and roof rack attachments.

How Does Nissan Safety Shield 360 and the 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor Protect Passengers?

Every Nissan Murano comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, a comprehensive suite of six active driver-assist technologies designed to monitor, warn, and intervene during potential hazards. Recent industry safety testing awarded the Murano lineup an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, backed by “Good” crashworthiness ratings across all major evaluation categories.

• Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: Monitors vehicle speed and distance to detect potential frontal collisions with vehicles or pedestrians, automatically applying the brakes if necessary.
• Rear Automatic Braking: Detects stationary objects behind the vehicle while reversing and can apply the brakes to prevent a collision.
• Blind Spot Warning: Alerts the driver to vehicles detected in side blind spot areas during lane-change maneuvers.
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Warns of approaching vehicles from either side when backing out of a parking space or driveway.
• Lane Departure Warning: Provides visual and haptic alerts if the vehicle begins drifting out of its travel lane without a turn signal activated.
• High Beam Assist: Automatically switches between high and low beam headlights based on oncoming traffic conditions.

Upper trims enhance driver awareness with the 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor, which utilizes multiple exterior cameras to construct a 360-degree virtual bird’s-eye view of the vehicle. This system includes an Invisible Hood View feature, allowing drivers to see a virtual representation of the ground directly beneath the engine compartment to help navigate tight parking spaces and high curbs.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety and driver-assistance features by trim

All trims — Platinum AWD, SL AWD, SV AWD, and SV FWD — come standard with ABS and Isofix preparation. They also feature active front seat head restraints that are both height adjustable, with two head restraints in the front and three adjustable head restraints in the rear seats. Seat belts in all seating positions include pre-tensioners and height adjustability, with rear center seat belts consisting of 3-point types.

Emergency call and accident data recorder systems are standard equipment across every trim level. The anti-collision system includes several standard features such as brake light activation, automatic emergency braking, low-speed front and rear braking (denoted by ‘D’), and a driver monitor. This system’s manufacturer’s name is Automatic Emergency Braking for all trims.

Common Buyer Questions About Nissan Murano Performance and Specs

Q: Can the Nissan Murano pull a boat or camper trailer?

Towing up to 1,500 lbs, the Nissan Murano suits light hauling needs typical for midsize SUVs. This rating is suitable for lightweight personal watercraft, small single-axle utility trailers, or hitch-mounted cargo platforms, but it is not intended for heavy travel trailers or large ski boats.

Q: Does the Murano require premium fuel for daily driving?

While 91-octane premium unleaded fuel is recommended to achieve the full 241 hp rating and optimal throttle response from the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine, the vehicle runs safely on standard 87-octane regular unleaded gasoline without causing engine damage.

Q: How much cargo space is available inside the Nissan Murano?

The Murano provides about 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second-row seats. When extra storage space is needed, folding the 60/40 split rear seatbacks flat expands total interior cargo capacity to roughly 64 cubic feet.

Q: What warranty coverage comes standard with a new Nissan Murano?

Every new Murano is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. Nissan also includes 24/7 roadside assistance for 3 years or 36,000 miles.

Q: What driver assistance features are standard on the Murano?

Every model includes Nissan Safety Shield 360 alongside ProPILOT Assist 1.1, which combines intelligent cruise control and steering assist to help maintain lane center and preset follow distance during highway driving.

Buyers interested in exploring options can check our new Nissan Murano inventory, submit an online credit application, or read more about why buyers choose our team for their next vehicle purchase.

Pricing

Pricing by trim

Test Drive and Finance Your Nissan Murano

Experiencing the quiet ride and responsive turbo power of the Nissan Murano is best done from the driver seat at Newton Nissan of Gallatin. Our sales team is ready to walk you through trim differences, display features, and option packages to ensure you find the exact midsize crossover that fits your lifestyle.

The Nissan Murano lineup starts at a base MSRP of $40,470 for the SV FWD trim, $41,470 for the SV AWD, $46,560 for the SL AWD, and $49,600 for the range-topping Platinum AWD, with a standard $1,495 destination charge applied across all models.

Whether you prefer to begin online or visit in person, our staff is dedicated to providing a straightforward, transparent buying process. You can find us by getting directions to our location on Nashville Pike or by calling our sales team directly at (615) 442-3090 to schedule your test drive today.