2025 Nissan Murano Review: New Design, Tech & Trim Changes

content: The 2025 Nissan Murano's Major Redesign

If you're comparing midsize SUVs, Nissan's all-new fourth-generation Murano demands attention. After analyzing this thorough walkthrough, I believe the redesign brings significant styling evolution and tech upgrades, though some feature changes might disappoint previous fans. The higher beltline and horizontal elements create a more modern presence, while the cabin's dual-screen layout and material upgrades signal Nissan's push toward premium competitiveness. However, the rear-seat space reduction and SL trim's leather downgrade require careful consideration.

Exterior Styling and Dimensions

The 2025 Murano adopts design language from Nissan's Ariya EV, featuring a 3-inch wider stance and 1.4-inch increased ground clearance. While the DRL "wing" design and chrome window arch echo Hyundai Tucson elements, the Aurora Blue Pearl finish demonstrates Nissan's sophisticated color craftsmanship. Standard 20-inch wheels (21-inch on Platinum) replace previous base 18-inch models, aligning with consumer preferences for larger alloys.

Key dimensional changes:

Width increase: +3 inches
Ground clearance: +1.4 inches
Rear legroom reduction: -2.4 inches (now 36.3 inches)

Interior Comfort and Materials

Stepping inside reveals the Murano's most significant upgrades. The horizontal dashboard design replaces bulky elements, while Morirano glass accents create a premium ombre effect between exterior and interior colors. Platinum models feature genuine leather with contrast stitching and quilting, though the SL trim now receives leatherette instead of previous genuine leather.

Zero Gravity seats remain exceptionally comfortable with standard heated fronts. Platinum adds ventilated and massaging seats, though the massage function produces noticeable noise. The push-button shifter creates space for a standard wireless charger and pass-through storage. Rear passengers gain heated seats in Platinum but face reduced legroom compared to Honda Passport (39.6 inches) and Toyota Crown Signia (37.1 inches).

Performance and Driving Experience

Nissan replaces the previous V6 and CVT with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and 9-speed automatic. Producing 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, this powertrain delivers improved low-end response despite unchanged 23 MPG combined EPA rating. During testing, transmission behavior showed occasional rough 1-2 shifts when cold.

All-wheel drive now comes standard on SL and Platinum trims, adding just $1,000 to the base price. The high beltline surprisingly doesn't compromise forward visibility, though the narrow rear windshield creates challenges. Active noise cancellation (enhanced with Bose audio) effectively maintains cabin tranquility.

Technology and Safety Features

Every 2025 Murano features:

Dual 12.3-inch displays
Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Wireless charging pad
Four USB-C ports
Standard ProPilot Assist

SL and above trims add Google Built-In with voice-controlled climate/seats, 10-speaker Bose audio, and 64-color ambient lighting. Platinum's head-up display represents the main tech differentiator. Safety Shield 360 remains standard, with ProPilot Assist 1.1 (using navigation data) reserved for higher trims. The Around View Monitor now includes moving object detection.

Trim Comparison and Competitor Analysis

2025 Pricing Breakdown:

S FWD: $41,860
SL AWD: $47,100
Platinum AWD: $50,990

The SL trim's leatherette substitution and Platinum's minimal tech advantages create a value question. Against key competitors:

Honda Passport: More rear space (39.6") but lower fuel economy (21 MPG combined)
Toyota Crown Signia: Hybrid efficiency (38 MPG) but higher base price ($44,985)
Chevy Blazer: Lower starting price ($36,795) but no standard power liftgate

content: Ownership Considerations

The Murano's $1,000-$1,700 price increase over 2024 seems reasonable considering the redesign. However, the rear-seat space reduction could impact family buyers. Nissan's 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty trails Honda's 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage, a factor for long-term owners.

Test Drive Checklist

Transmission behavior: Note shift smoothness during cold start
Rear visibility: Adjust mirrors with your seating position
Material comparison: Feel leatherette (SL) vs leather (Platinum)
Third-row access: Practice car seat installation
Voice commands: Test "Turn on driver's seat ventilation"

Recommended Resources

Nissan's build tool: Best for visualizing color/interior combinations
Fuelly.com: Real-world MPG tracking (turbo-four models)
Murano Forums: Owner-reported transmission experiences

content: Final Verdict

The 2025 Murano succeeds as a stylish, tech-forward update but compromises rear space and material quality at mid-trim levels. Its Google integration and ProPilot Assist standard inclusion make it compelling for tech-focused buyers, though the Crown Signia's hybrid efficiency presents a strong alternative.

Which feature change would most impact your decision: the rear-seat reduction or SL trim's leatherette substitution? Share your priorities below!