Los Angeles 2007: 2009 Nissan Murano

Nissan's Murano has been around since the 2004 model year and was a solid hit for the company, so it's not surprising that the new Murano, introduced in Los Angeles and going on sale in January 2008 as a 2009 model, is an evolutionary, rather than revolutionary, design. The old Murano's swoopy headlamps and taillamps have given way to more horizontal units that don't extend halfway up the fenders, and the grille is now a more traditional slotted item, as opposed to the old Murano's bow-mounted cheese grater.

Riding on the same "D" platform as the new Altima, the 2009 Murano makes extensive use of aluminum in its fully independent suspension to reduce mass, reducing the transmission of shocks and bumps on the road to the passenger cabin. The engine is still Nissan's familiar VQ-series V6, displacing 3.5 liters and producing 265 horsepower, and the Xtronic continuously-varible transmission has been updated this go-round for increased throttle response and faster ratio changes. Muranos continue to be available in front- or all-wheel drive.

The redesigned interior eliminates most of the old Murano's baked-in cheapness, with more pleasing materials and less outré shapes. Push-button ignition is standard, as are a steering wheel that now adjusts for reach as well as rake, bushels of aluminum trim, six air bags, and active head restraints to protect against whiplash.


The original Nissan Murano, when it was introduced in 2003 as a 2004 model, set new standards for style and sportiness in the expanding mid-size crossover sport-utility vehicle marketplace, becoming, in essence, a “class of one.” The all-new, second generation 2009 Murano elevates that unique position through a “super evolution” of the original design – with a new exterior and interior, enhanced technology and a new premium driving feel resulting from a new, advanced platform and continued refinement of Murano’s standard V6 engine and advanced, second-generation Xtronic CVT™.

The most striking visual element of the 2009 Murano is its new body, which imparts a “modern art” feel while still maintaining its distinctive “Murano-ness.” The front end features a bold grille and wide front headlights. Murano’s new hood sweeps into the bodyline, with powerful wheel arches and available 20-inch wheels providing an aggressive stance. The Murano’s redesigned rear end features a unique rear glass shape for maximum visibility, rear air deflector, large rear LED taillights and dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers. The new Murano design also includes an available dual panel power sliding glass moonroof and 2 nd row skylight. Three new exterior colors are offered for 2009: Deep Sapphire, Tinted Bronze and Saharan Stone.

Inside, the 2009 Murano lives up to its “mobile suite” design theme with new levels of warmth and luxury. New front seats and a new steering wheel design provide increased passenger comfort, and warmth is provided by a new “Welcome Lighting” ambient lighting system, a new instrument panel design, available wood and aluminum accents and a 60/40 fold-flat rear seat with available power return. Other available features include a new foldaway cargo organizer, heated front and rear seats, power liftgate, rain-sensing front wipers and RearView Monitor.

All 2009 Muranos feature a VQ-series 3.5-liter DOHC V6 rated at 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque and an advanced Xtronic CVT™ with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) that provides a sporty and smooth driving experience. 2009 Muranos are available in front-wheel drive or with an advanced all-wheel drive system, and all Muranos come standard with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with a Traction Control System (TCS) for all-weather confidence.

The 2009 Murano features a new “D” platform, first introduced on the 2007 Altima, which provides a solid foundation and new, lighter suspension components with increased stiffness. New dual flow path shock absorbers provide sure footing on all surfaces, while a new twin-orifice speed-sensitive power steering system delivers the proper levels of assistance in around-town and high-speed driving.

Push button start is standard, along with iPod® connectivity (LE only). Available technology features include Intelligent Key, Bose® premium 11-speaker audio system, an advanced touch screen navigation system with 9.3GB Music Box hard drive, a new power-operated 9-inch roof-mounted screen (up from the previous generation’s 6.4-inch screen) for Murano’s DVD Mobile Entertainment System and Voice Recognition for audio, Bluetooth® and navigation system.

The all-new 2009 Nissan Murano is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in early January 2008.

Highlights of the 2009 Nissan Murano include:

Body


• All-new distinct exterior design guided by a emotional, curvaceous theme
• New, wide, character-like headlights with dynamic accents; available High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional projector headlights
• New large grille and fascia, standard fog lights on SL and LE models
• New rear fascia with large LED taillights
• New available dual panel power sliding glass moonroof and 2 nd row skylight (optional on SL and LE)
• New rain-sensing front wipers (optional on SL, standard on LE)
• New power liftgate (optional on SL, standard on LE)
• New 6-spoke 18-inch wheels (S, SL); 5-spoke 20-inch wheels (LE)
• Available new-design roof rack with cross bars
• Increased body torsional stiffness for enhanced handling and ride comfort
• Three new exterior colors: Deep Sapphire, Tinted Bronze and Saharan Stone

Engine and Driveline


• Revised VQ-series 24-valve, 3.5-liter DOHC V6 producing 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, tuned for Murano
• Twin Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), twin knock sensor, low exhaust pressure
• 10.3:1 compression ratio, 6,000 rpm redline
• New, second-generation Xtronic CVT™ with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) for sporty response and smoothness – utilizes an advanced, sport-tuned controller with adaptive logic for driving comfort or driving performance as conditions require
• Available in front-wheel drive or new, advanced all-wheel drive system that connects the VDC system, yaw sensors, wheel slip sensors and steering angle sensors to the AWD system to distribute torque as needed; adjusts to road conditions in 1/10 th of a second for enhanced all-weather performance
• Standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS)
• All 2009 Murano models meet ULEV (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) standards

Suspension, Steering and Braking


• New “D” platform, also utilized on the current generation Altima, designed to provide improved stiffness for reduced levels of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), as well as outstanding handling responsiveness and ride comfort
• New, lightweight 4-wheel independent suspension featuring extensive use of aluminum components, reducing sprung mass; features cradle-type front subframe, advanced multi-link rear suspension with improved geometry, and front and rear stabilizer bars
• New dual flow path shock absorbers for responsiveness and reduced ride harshness
• New twin-orifice vehicle speed-sensitive power steering provides direct steering feel and confidence in all driving situations
• 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD); G-sensor on all-wheel drive models
• New 18x7.5-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P235/65R18 tires (S, SL)
• New 20x7.5-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P235/55R20 tires (LE)

Interior Features


• New interior design, with “mobile suite” aesthetic; spacious cabin with fold-flat rear seats and wide cargo area, “Welcome Lighting” ambient lighting system
• Innovative instrument panel design, new steering wheel and aluminum trim throughout interior
• New ergonomic seat design
• Available leather-appointed interior surfaces with double-stitched seats
• New standard Push Button Ignition
• New available heated rear seats (standard on LE); heated front seats and outside mirrors (available on SL, standard on LE)
• New available foldaway cargo organizer (optional on SL, standard on LE)
• Available 7-inch color display for audio, climate control, fuel economy, maintenance and comfort and convenience systems
• Available Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System (optional on SL, standard on LE)
• Available Hard-Drive based touch screen navigation system with user-friendly graphic interface, menu structure and intelligent search capabilities, 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and XM® Nav Traffic (XM® subscription required, sold separately)
• Available DVD Mobile Entertainment System with a new 9-inch screen (increased from previous generation’s 6.4-inch screen)
• New telescopic steering wheel (manual on S and SL, power on LE)
• New 60/40 Fold-flat Rear Seatback with Power Return (standard on SL and LE)
• Available XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately)
• Standard AM/FM/CD6 with six speakers (up from four), AUX-in jack and MP3/WMA capability
• Available revised Bose® premium 11-speaker audio system with Radio Data System, AUX-in jack, MP3/WMA capability and speed-sensitive volume control
• Integrated iPod® connectivity (LE only)
• RearView Monitor (available on SL, standard on LE)
• Highly functional storage systems, including a two-tier lockable center console storage box with fold-out function, cell phone holder, dual seatback pockets
• Readability-enhancing Fine Vision gauges and driver instrumentation, plus illuminated steering wheel controls
• Auto door lock feature
• Two available interior colors – Cafe Latte and Charcoal

Safety


• Six standard air bags, including Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor
• Front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
• Front-seat side-impact supplemental air bags, and roof-mounted curtain side-impact/rollover supplemental air bags for front and rear outboard protection
• Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones
• Front seat Active Head Restraints
• Standard Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)
• Standard driver and passenger seat belt warning lamps

Models and Manufacturing


• Offered in five well-equipped models: S 2WD, S AWD, SL 2WD, SL AWD, LE AWD
• Assembled in Kyushu, Japan

SANTA MONICA, California — Nissan is preparing a new addition for its popular Murano crossover lineup, and surprisingly enough, the future SUV will be a convertible.

On the market since 2003, the five-passenger SUV underwent a complete makeover for 2009, and now Nissan is engineering a drop-top version of the latest-generation Murano. Expected to arrive by the spring of 2010, the Murano drop top will be the market's only four-door convertible except for the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, whose rugged four-wheel-drive capability is geared toward a completely different audience.

Insider sources close to the project say the 2011 Murano convertible will be produced in limited numbers, and will be targeted at empty-nesters who need room to carry the grandkids, but still want something fun. But the kids will need to pack light, as the current Murano offers just 31.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity, and the convertible mechanism will certainly cut into that space.

Although retractable hardtops are gaining in popularity, the Murano will stick with a more traditional soft top to keep weight down. Less heft should help keep fuel economy similar to the Murano's current 21 mpg combined city/highway rating, as the 265-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) used in the 2009 Murano is expected to remain. We also expect front- or all-wheel drive to be available.

Don't expect the 2011 Murano convertible to come cheap. A top-of-the-line 2009 Murano LE with all-wheel drive and an optional navigation system is priced at $39,080 including delivery charges, and the new convertible model will likely sit at the top of the lineup.

What this means to you: Nissan takes a gamble on a niche vehicle with the Murano convertible, at a time when other manufacturers are bunkering down to weather high fuel prices and sluggish SUV sales. — Kelly Toepke, News Editor

2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet – “Innovation for Fun” Leads Design of World’s First AWD Crossover Convertible

– Bold Expression of Nissan’s Commitment to Design and Innovation Goes On Sale in Early 2011, Offered in One Luxurious All-Wheel Drive Model –

As the world’s first all-wheel drive crossover convertible, the 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet breaks new ground in both the crossover SUV and convertible segments. With its never seen before design and custom boutique style, the Murano CrossCabriolet is unlike anything on the road – blending all of the things people love in a crossover with the open air enjoyment of a convertible. Making its world debut at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, the Murano CrossCabriolet is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in early 2011.

“When people think of a crossover, they think of a combination of the driving sophistication of a sedan with the utility of a sport utility. This new Murano CrossCabriolet adds an unexpected third element, the ability to make everyday activities more exciting with open air driving,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “However, with its extraordinarily engineered convertible top, standard all-wheel drive and room for four adults plus cargo, the CrossCabriolet is not just for cruising South Beach or Malibu. It’s a vehicle to take to lunch, running errands or on a long ski weekend in any part of the country.”

Possibilities Await: Murano CrossCabriolet Design Concept

The impetus behind innovation is often as simple as asking questions not posed before, such as how do you overcome the functional limitations of a convertible? “Everyone loves the convertible experience, no one loves the convertible reality – compromised trunk space, a cramped back seat or none at all, and a lack of flexibility for everyday life,” said Castignetti. “The Murano CrossCabriolet is the reinvention of versatility, encouraging people to rethink what a convertible can be.”

The all-new Murano CrossCabriolet overcomes these obstacles, combining elegant design and state-of-the-art engineering. One of the priorities in the convertible top design was the retention of the traditional Murano silhouette with the top up, and a luxurious, sophisticated appearance with the top down.

The transformation of the Murano body from Crossover to CrossCabriolet and from 4-door to 2-door meant more than just removing the top. Along with creating new front doors (7.9 inches longer than 4-door Murano front doors) and eliminating the B-pillars, the structure has been reinforced from the A-pillar rearward. The cloth convertible top also includes a rear glass skylight, helping create a wide-open interior environment even with the top in the closed position. Dual Pop-up Roll Bars are also standard. The coefficient of drag remains close to that of the hardtop Murano, just 0.39 Cd versus 0.37 Cd.

One of the keys to the CrossCabriolet’s design’s success is the convertible top’s exceptionally compact size when stowed, which allows both additional interior and cargo volume (normally taken up by a traditional convertible stowage design). The hydraulically operated top mechanism includes an automatic power latch/unlatch system. Operation switches are located on the center console and driver’s door handle. With the top down, the stowed size is similar to that of a conventional 2-seat roadster. Trunk capacity with the top down is 7.6 cubic feet, enough to fit two sets of golf clubs or two carry-on suitcases. With the top closed, cargo capacity expands to 12.3 cubic feet.

Along with the unique convertible top appearance, the Murano CrossCabriolet exterior also includes High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon projector headlights with auto on/off function, front fog lights and Nissan 370Z-inspired LED taillights.

Other features include body-colored front and rear bumpers, chrome door handles, body-colored dual power/heated outside mirrors, and rear window defroster with timer. Along with convertible style, the CrossCabriolet offers the high ground clearance of a Murano for easy ingress and egress and enhanced driver visibility.

Six exterior colors are available: unique Murano CrossCabriolet colors Sunset Bronze and Caribbean, plus Merlot, Platinum Graphite, Super Black and Pearl White.

A Highly Rewarding Interior

The luxurious Murano CrossCabriolet interior starts with a foundation of the top-of-the-line Murano LE and takes it to the next level of standard features and convenience items. The tall windshield and A-pillar design combines with the body’s high beltline and high rear seat shoulders to help reduce conventional interior air turbulence with the top down, allowing conversation between occupants.

Premium materials are used throughout the interior, with the standard leather- appointed seats available in a diagonally quilted premium leather, double-stitched pattern for added elegance. The interior’s curving, sculpted lines, half-matte chromed trim finish and unique wood-tone trim, tuned to match each of three available interior colors, add an additional rich, quality feel. Interior colors include Black, Cashmere (light brown) and Camel (brown).

The Murano CrossCabriolet comes fully equipped, with a long list of standard features including 8-way power heated driver’s seat with power lumbar support, 4-way manual heated front passenger seat with easy entry function, heated steering wheel, 2-position driver’s seat memory system for seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors, passenger seat easy entry release button on instrument panel for driver access, driver and front passenger seatback pocket, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition.

Every CrossCabriolet also comes with a standard Nissan Hard-Drive Navigation System with 9.3GB Music Box® hard drive and XM NavTraffic® (XM® subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver and RearView Monitor.

Open-air road tunes are provided by a Bose® AM/FM/CD audio system with 8 speakers including subwoofer, automatic audio adjustment for soft-top up/down position, integrated Interface System for iPod®, speed-sensitive volume control and auxiliary audio input jack. XM® satellite Radio (XM® subscription requires, sold separately) is also standard.

“The interior of the Murano CrossCabriolet provides a custom boutique feel. With numerous color combinations offered between the exterior, interior and convertible top, owners can express their own distinctive sense of style,” added Castignetti. “It’s a rare convertible that allows four passengers to feel equally comfortable, which this stunning new design absolutely does – as well as equally indulged.”

Under the Skin: Pure Murano

Open air driving is not the only emotional reward the Murano CrossCabriolet provides – it also offers a secure, rewarding driving experience. Its no-compromise drivetrain is shared with the all-wheel drive hardtop Murano, starting with the proven “D” platform (also utilized on Maxima and Altima sedans) and standard 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 producing 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. The engine design includes the Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), twin knock sensors, low exhaust pressure, a 10.3:1 compression ratio, and 6,000 rpm redline.

The engine is mated to a standard second-generation Xtronic CVT™ with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) for sporty response and smoothness, which utilizes an advanced, sport-tuned controller with adaptive logic for driving comfort or driving performance as conditions require. The advanced all-wheel drive system connects the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system, yaw sensors, wheel slip sensors and steering angle sensors to distribute torque according to driving conditions.

The Murano CrossCabriolet’s lightweight 4-wheel independent suspension features MacPherson struts in front, a multi-link rear design, cradle-type front subframe and front and rear stabilizer bars. Also utilized are dual-flow path shock absorbers for responsiveness and reduced ride harshness.

Steering is provided by a twin-orifice vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted steering system, while the braking system includes 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and G-sensor. Every CrossCabriolet comes with 20-inch split 5-spoke titanium finish aluminum-alloy wheels with P235/55R20 Toyo Proxes A20 all-season tires.

Standard Murano CrossCabriolet safety features include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor and door-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor, along with front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones, front seat Active Head Restraints, Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Security System (VSS) and Dual Pop-up Roll Bars.

One Fully Equipped Model

The 2011 Murano CrossCabriolet is offered in one fully equipped model. Along with the many items previously mentioned, standard features include power front windows with one-touch up/down and auto-reverse feature, Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control, and a 7-inch color display for audio, climate control, fuel economy, maintenance and comfort and convenience systems.

Also included are highly functional storage systems, including a two-tier center console storage box with fold-out function, cell phone holder, dual seatback pockets, Fine Vision gauges and driver instrumentation with white backlighting, illuminated steering wheel controls, auto door lock feature, four cupholders, tilting and telescoping steering column, auto-dimming rearview mirror, cruise control with illuminated steering wheel mounted switches, front door map pockets, and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system.

Only two options are available with specific exterior colors – a Camel interior with upgraded leather and the black top, and the Brown top/Cashmere interior combination (with upgraded leather).

“The versatility and functionality of a true all-wheel drive crossover, the unique open air driving experience of a pure convertible – the Murano CrossCabriolet is a breakthrough in concept, design and execution,” said Castignetti. “Innovation meets Murano with stunning results.”