The Nissan Murano is a midsize SUV that started out in 2003.
It has a sleek anti-box exterior design, a high-end interior, and numerous driver assistance and safety tech.
In this article, we’ll be going through all of the best and worst model years of the Murano.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Nissan Murano Are:
The best Nissan Murano model years are 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2014, 2013, 2012, and 2011. The worst model years of the Murano are 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, and 2015. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Nissan Murano?
2023 and 2022 Nissan Murano
The 2023 and 2022 Murano models are third generation SUVs that possess the most recent tech and updated designs.
Either model has high quality interior materials, exceptionally comfy front seats, and spacious rear seating.
Prospective owners can choose from 4 trim levels: S, SV, SL, and Platinum.
Each trim is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine (260 horsepower) and is matched to a CVT in either a front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configuration.
Price ranges from around $35,000 to $47,000.
2023 Murano:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 86 / 100
2022 Murano:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 86 / 100
2022 Murano, Edmunds review:
“Good ride and handling. Plenty of power from six cylinder. Interior first class. Would buy it again.”
2021 and 2020 Nissan Murano
The 2021 and 2020 Muranos are great options for those looking for modern tech at a slightly more affordable price range.
New to these models are slight design modifications, additional optional packages, and advanced standard safety features.
Among the 4 available trims (S, SV, SL, and Platinum), we recommend going with the higher-end SL trim as it provides owners with upscale features such as a hands-free liftgate and supple leather upholstery.
Regardless of trim, both model years come with a 3.5-liter V6 engine (260 horsepower).
According to owner feedback, the following aspects are these model years’ highlights: appearance, sound system, value, reliability, and manufacturing quality.
2021 Murano:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 86 / 100
2020 Murano:
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 85 / 100
2020 Murano, Edmunds review:
“Smooth ride and is a beast in the New England snow! I have had this car for 3 years with no problems! I have the SL with soft leather, heated seats, panoramic moon roof, Navi with a nice big screen, Bose speakers and 360 camera. Amazing and good size for a mid size SUV! Fully loaded at a great price!”
2019 Nissan Murano
The 2019 Murano is one of the most reliable midsize SUVs in the market, according to numerous customer reviews and feedback online.
New to this particular model year are a restyled front fascia with new LED headlights, additional standard and optional safety features (active and passive), and an interesting diamond-quilted leather seat set exclusive to the Platinum trim.
Critics have praised the model’s comfort above all other aspects, thanks to great suspension, comfortable seats, and a high-quality interior.
Our favorite safety features are Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Around View Monitor.
The model also performed well in crash tests, securing a perfect 5-star rating from NHTSA.
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 83 / 100
2019 Murano, Edmunds review:
“My wife and I have owned 6 new Lexus’s in the last 20 years. As we entered into retirement, we wanted to be more practical. After 1 year of research, we settled on the Murano, as it checked all of our boxes. We have owned it for one year and are very happy with our choice.”
2018 and 2017 Nissan Murano
The 2018 and 2017 Murano model years deliver the right balance of power and fuel economy.
Both models’ interiors are highlighted by high-quality materials with a unique design.
The exterior is also sleek and modern, comparable to higher-end luxury counterparts in the market.
Based on EPA estimates, owners can expect 24 MPG for combined driving, 21 MPG for city driving, and 28 MPG for highway driving.
All trims are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine (260 horsepower) paired to a CVT system.
2018 Murano:
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 82 / 100
2017 Murano:
- Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 82 / 100
2018 Murano, Edmunds review:
“Have owned my 2018 Murano SL for 20 months. Overall my wife and I love it. The front seats are very comfortable and adjust easily. Makes a 5 or 6 hour drive effortless. The interior is well finished and has a high end feel. Back seat is roomy and a plus is that the back seats partially recline. Leg room both front/back is generous. We have a 400 pound friend who gets into the front seat easily and says that it is a comfortable ride. Exterior styling is unique, which we like, sets the car off from the run of the mill SUV. Cargo space is adequate for our family. Rear/side vision is a bit limited but blind spot warning, and the 360 camera system make up for it. The vehicle handles well with good acceleration. Overall we really enjoy the Murano.”
2016 Nissan Murano
The 2016 Murano is a delightful midsize SUV that offers a spacious and upscale interior, comfortable seats, and relatively decent fuel economy (in relation to engine performance).
New to this particular model is the integration of a standard USB port.
It follows the 2015 Nissan Murano, which is the model year that ushered in the current generation of the lineup (third generation).
As mentioned earlier, fuel economy is pretty good. Expect 24 MPG for combined driving, 21 MPG for city driving, and 28 MPG for highway driving.
These figures are thanks to a massive yet efficient 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower.
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 83 / 100
2016 Murano, Edmunds review:
“I’m a 29 y/o male roughly 6’3″ and 275 pounds. I was driving an Infiniti 35 before this car. I was looking for something a little bit more roomy, sporty looking and capable of holding my friends of similar stature. I saw the Murano and immediately loved the look of it. I know it’s a bold design but it’s flawless in my eyes. Its sporty, the interior is great (I have the arctic blue exterior with black leather interior) and I LOVE IT! I would caution anyone with kids not to get the S or SV as it’s cloth and don’t get the cashmere because it is too light in color. I couldn’t believe the price I am paying for the quality of the vehicle that I’m driving. I believe that the car is comparable to a Infiniti Q70 which I was looking into but was way too expensive for me. It has a lot of the same qualities, just not the big budget name…”
2014 and 2013 Nissan Murano
The 2014 and 2013 Murano models are comfortable, stylish, and practical.
These models offer a high-quality cabin, spacious backseat, responsive engine and transmission, confident handling, user-friendly controls, and a smooth ride.
Owners praised the following aspects of both model years: handling, steering, interior, ride quality, fuel efficiency, and spaciousness.
EPA-estimated fuel economy is around 20 MPG for combined driving, 18 MPG for city driving, and 24 MPG for highway driving.
There are 4 trims to choose from: S, SV, SL, and LE.
2014 Murano:
- Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.6 / 5.0
- JD Power: 83 / 100
2013 Murano:
- Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: 88 / 100
2014 Murano, Edmunds review:
“Just bought this vehicle in Minnesota (I live in Indiana). So far, it’s great. Drove around Minnesota a while then came home the next day (9 hours). Very comfortable ride and driving position. Acceleration is great. Build quality is excellent. Interior materials are of very high quality. Have not checked out city/suburban MPG but highway is very acceptable. We got 23.6 MPG driving 70+ MPH–with air the whole time. That included a MAJOR traffic jam in Chicago which held us up for an hour. We couldn’t be happier with the vehicle…”
2012 Nissan Murano
The 2012 Murano, despite its age, is one of the more transcendent model years thanks to its overall reliability and driving mechanics.
New to this particular model year are the coveted Platinum Edition optional package for the top-spec LE trim and an all-new 7-inch monochrome touchscreen infotainment system for the entry-level S trim.
Other than performance, it is also one of the most well-received midsize crossover SUVs thanks to its unique styling and overall sophistication, both inside and out.
In government crash testing, this model year received an overall rating of 4 stars (out of 5) which is a good rating to get from NHTSA.
Owners loved the following areas of the vehicle: interior, handling, steering, comfort, appearance, and engine performance.
- Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: 84 / 100
2012 Murano, Edmunds review:
“A great car at a reasonable price. Was looking at a new CRV or Forester but this was much more bang for the buck. This was the first used car I bought. It’s been 7 months with no problems and lots of compliments. No rattles or anything. Ditto at one year. $30.00 oil change at dealer. 19 months, another oil change and tire rotation (39.00) and 48000 miles with no problems. A great car. 2 years and no issues. 4 years and still no issues 69000 miles, Still seems like new.”
2011 Nissan Murano
The 2011 Murano is a standout among its crossover competitors in the SUV segment.
It is popular for its unique design, engaging driving experience, and simple yet complex-looking tech and features.
Based on our research, power output for this model year was slightly reduced (compared to immediate predecessors) but fuel economy remains essentially the same.
The optional navigation system also gets real-time traffic and weather updates, a Zagat restaurant guide, and Bluetooth streaming audio capability.
According to the EPA, expect approximately 20 MPG for combined driving, 18 MPG for city driving, and 23 MPG for highway driving.
- Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: 84 / 100
2011 Murano, Edmunds review:
“Looked at pretty much everything except the American brands (sorry, they just can’t compete for the money they charge), and went with the 2WD Murano LE based on the “fit” (I’m 6′-4″) and finish of the interior, and the good looks of the exterior. The Murano is a couple thousand $ more than a Kia, Outback, Hyundai, or Mazda, but the refined interior (i.e., high quality materials, absolutely superb electronics, and solid driving feel) combined with an overall solid build quality make the extra $ well worth it. Previously owned a massive gas-sucking Nissan Armada, so this was quite a step down in size, but a HUGE step up in comfort and interior refinement. Overall: I REALLY like this car.”
Consumer Scores For Best Nissan Murano Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2023 Nissan Murano | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 86 / 100 |
| 2022 Nissan Murano | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 86 / 100 |
| 2021 Nissan Murano | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 86 / 100 |
| 2020 Nissan Murano | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2019 Nissan Murano | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
| 2018 Nissan Murano | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2017 Nissan Murano | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
| 2016 Nissan Murano | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
| 2014 Nissan Murano | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
| 2013 Nissan Murano | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 88 / 100 |
| 2012 Nissan Murano | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
| 2011 Nissan Murano | 4.5 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 84 / 100 |
Related: How Long Do Nissan Murano Last? (Solved and Explained)
What Are The Worst Years For The Nissan Murano?
2003 and 2004 Nissan Murano
The Murano got off to a rough start with its first three model years.
The 2003 and 2004 models, according to online statistics, are two of the most problematic model years ever produced.
The chief issues reported by owners are transmission-related.
Numerous owners reported frequent loss of acceleration, particularly when moving from a full stop at a stoplight or intersection.
Acceleration was also allegedly not in sync with the pressure applied to the gas pedal, leading to inconsistent and unpredictable vehicle performance on the road.
The 2003 Murano had a total of 1,022 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 37 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
The 2004 Murano had a total of 835 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 134 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Transmission failure
- Transfer case issues
- Door handle broke
- Engine failure due to faulty catalytic converter
- Seat is broken
- Engine stalls out
- Door lock failed
2005, 2006, and 2007 Nissan Murano
The 2005, 2006, and 2007 Murano model years are the second set of most problematic model years produced.
While this trio managed to avoid widespread transmission-related issues, they all exhibited structural problems.
A lot of owners reported alignment and stability issues with the vehicle’s seats.
The complaint below best explains the situation:
“The driver’s seat frame is broken at the right rear lift arm. The seat frame is electrically adjustable. The seat wobbles causing the driver to move around at random. Loss of control of the vehicle is possible as the seat moves left and right as the vehicle is being driven. As this just occurred within the past 24 hours it has not been inspected by anyone other than myself.”
The 2005 Murano had a total of 1,135 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 94 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
The 2006 Murano had a total of 906 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 98 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
The 2007 Murano had a total of 851 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 84 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Leaking power steering fluid
- Failed transfer case
- Excessive oil consumption
- CVT failure
- Seat structure failure
2009 and 2010 Nissan Murano
The 2009 and 2010 Murano models suffered from severe brake-related issues.
Owners reported inconsistent braking, car stalling, and entering into limp mode (reduced power).
Other owners also had to depress the brake pedal all the way up to the floor just to get some form of brake response which, at times, was still significantly insufficient.
Take a look at one of the multiple reports below on the matter:
“The contact owns a 2009 Nissan Murano. The contact stated that while her granddaughter was driving 15 mph and slowing down for a traffic light, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to slow as needed. The contact stated that the vehicle stopped in the middle of the intersection. The contact stated that her granddaughter was not aware if a warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The mechanic determined that the front calipers, brake pads, brake lines, and rotors needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the brake failure persisted. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 18v916000 (service brakes, hydraulic).”
- The 2009 Murano had a total of 747 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 131 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2010 Murano had a total of 201 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 42 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Soft brake pedal
- ABS controller malfunction
- Transmission failure
- Pulls left when accelerating
- Transfer case leak
2015 Nissan Murano
The Murano suffered in multiple departments, including the CVT transmission, airbag system, and the sunroof.
A lot of owners reported failure of the transmission and various other transmission issues as early as 75,000 miles.
The airbags were also problematic, with certain complaints specifying that the vehicle’s computer system would fail to detect a passenger on the front seat, which would mean that the front passenger airbag would not deploy in the event of an emergency.
As for the sunroof, there were a handful of owners that suffered from sunroof explosion, as explained below:
“Sunroof exploded while driving down the highway. There was a loud explosion. Nothing struck the vehicle. I wasn’t sure what had caused the sound, but when I pulled off the road, I noticed that the sunroof was shattered and had exploded.”
The 2015 Murano had a total of 219 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 67 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Jerking
- Vibration
- Transfer case leakage
Related: Nissan Murano Beeping? (12 Causes and Solutions)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Nissan Murano | 1 | – | 0 |
| 2022 Nissan Murano | – | 4 | 0 |
| 2021 Nissan Murano | 1 | 7 | 0 |
| 2020 Nissan Murano | 2 | 31 | 2 |
| 2019 Nissan Murano | 6 | 33 | 1 |
| 2018 Nissan Murano | 20 | 125 | 2 |
| 2017 Nissan Murano | 18 | 117 | 3 |
| 2016 Nissan Murano | 26 | 113 | 6 |
| 2015 Nissan Murano | 67 | 219 | 5 |
| 2014 Nissan Murano | 45 | 144 | 1 |
| 2013 Nissan Murano | 19 | 78 | 1 |
| 2012 Nissan Murano | 20 | 144 | 1 |
| 2011 Nissan Murano | 45 | 166 | 0 |
| 2010 Nissan Murano | 42 | 201 | 0 |
| 2009 Nissan Murano | 131 | 747 | 3 |
| 2007 Nissan Murano | 84 | 851 | 2 |
| 2006 Nissan Murano | 98 | 906 | 2 |
| 2005 Nissan Murano | 94 | 1,135 | 2 |
| 2004 Nissan Murano | 134 | 835 | 2 |
| 2003 Nissan Murano | 37 | 1,022 | 0 |
What Problems Do Nissan Murano’s Have?
- Jerking
- Soft brake pedal
- Transmission failure
- ABS controller malfunction
- Vibration
- Transfer case leakage
- Hesitation at acceleration
- Power steering not working
- CVT failure
- Seat structure failure
- Oil leak through transmission
- Leaking power steering fluid
- Failed transfer case
- Excessive oil consumption
- Seat is broken
- Engine stalls out
- Door lock failed
- Door handle broke
- Engine failure due to faulty catalytic converter
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Nissan Murano?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Buick Enclave | 8.1 | $44,800 – $59,470 | City: 17 – 18 /Highway: 25 – 26 |
| Volkswagen Atlas | 8.0 | $34,460 – $52,340 | City: 18 – 21 /Highway: 23 – 25 |
| Ford Edge | 7.9 | $37,945 – $46,485 | City: 19 – 21 /Highway: 25 – 28 |
| Nissan Pathfinder | 7.9 | $35,000 – $49,870 | City: 20 – 21 /Highway: 23 – 27 |
| Subaru Ascent | 7.9 | $33,895 – $48,195 | City: 19 – 20 /Highway: 25 – 26 |
| Toyota Highlander | 7.9 | $36,420 – $51,225 | City: 21 – 22 /Highway: 28 – 29 |
| Dodge Durango | 7.7 | $38,495 – $91,185 | City: 13 – 19 /Highway: 19 – 26 |
| Ford Explorer | 7.7 | $36,760 – $65,075 | City: 16 – 27 /Highway: 22 – 28 |
| Chevrolet Blazer | 7.6 | $35,100 – $45,700 | City: 19 – 22 /Highway: 26 – 29 |
| GMC Acadia | 7.6 | $36,800 – $50,600 | City: 19 – 22 /Highway: 26 – 29 |
| Nissan Murano | 7.6 | $33,660 – $46,910 | City: 20 /Highway: 28 |
| Toyota 4Runner | 7.0 | $39,555 – $54,020 | City: 16 /Highway: 19 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: How Long Do Nissan Rogue Last? (Solved and Explained)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/nissan/murano
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/nissan/murano
https://www.edmunds.com/nissan/murano/
https://www.kbb.com/nissan/murano/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/nissan/murano
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Nissan/Murano/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/nissan/murano/
https://www.cars.com/research/nissan-murano/recalls/
Ian Sawyer Growing up with a father who was a mechanic I had an appreciation for cars and motorcycles from an early age. I shared my first bike with my brother that had little more than a 40cc engine but it opened up a world of excitement for me, I was hooked. As I grew older I progressed onto bigger bikes and... View all posts
