Perhaps most notable is the retirement of Nissan’s long-enduring 3.5-liter V6 engine in favor of a variable compression 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The new engine will alter its compression ratio automatically to suit the driving situation—a lower ratio when more power is needed, such as during acceleration, and a higher ratio in situations when it’s not, such as cruising on the highway. We tested this engine in the Infiniti QX50 and found that neither acceleration nor fuel economy was outstanding.
On top of that, the new Murano will no longer have a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The new model will have a nine-speed automatic transmission that, based on the performance of other similar units, is likely to provide smoother, more predictable shifts. ProPilot Assist, Nissan’s enhanced adaptive cruise control, will be available in the Murano for the first time.
The Murano will be positioned between the compact Nissan Rogue and the full-sized Armada, and it competes with two-row SUVs like the Chevrolet Blazer and Honda Passport. It will be built at Nissan’s plant in Smyrna, Tenn., and is slated to go on sale early next year.
Here’s what we know so far.
What it competes with: Chevrolet Blazer, Honda Passport, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Kia Sorento, Mazda CX-70, Toyota Crown Signia, Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Powertrain: 241-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine; 9-speed automatic transmission; front- or all-wheel drive
Price: $39,000-$50,000 (estimated)
On sale: Spring 2025
