2015 Nissan Murano Platinum: A Detailed Review

by Jhon Lennon 47 views

Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the 2015 Nissan Murano Platinum, a vehicle that has garnered attention for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and array of features. This review aims to provide a comprehensive look at what makes the Murano Platinum a standout choice in the mid-size SUV market. We'll explore everything from its engine and performance to its interior comfort and technology, offering you a well-rounded perspective to help you decide if this is the right SUV for you, so let's get started!

Exterior Design and Aesthetics

When you first lay eyes on the 2015 Nissan Murano Platinum, its sleek and modern design immediately catches your eye. Nissan really stepped up their game with the third generation of the Murano, introducing a bolder and more sophisticated look. The Platinum trim, being the top-of-the-line version, boasts several unique features that elevate its visual appeal. The front fascia is dominated by Nissan's signature V-motion grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights that not only look great but also provide excellent visibility. The overall silhouette is aerodynamic, with a sloping roofline that gives the Murano a coupe-like profile. This design choice sets it apart from more traditional boxy SUVs and gives it a more contemporary feel. The Platinum trim also includes stylish 20-inch alloy wheels, adding to its premium appearance.

The exterior design of the 2015 Murano Platinum is more than just about looks; it's also functional. The aerodynamic shape contributes to improved fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise. The carefully sculpted body panels and integrated rear spoiler further enhance its sleek appearance. Chrome accents around the windows, door handles, and lower body add a touch of elegance, while the available panoramic sunroof allows natural light to flood the cabin. The rear of the Murano features distinctive LED taillights and a sculpted liftgate that completes the modern and refined aesthetic. Whether you're cruising through city streets or parked at the curb, the Murano Platinum makes a statement with its sophisticated and eye-catching design. The designers focused on creating a vehicle that would stand out from the crowd, and they certainly succeeded. The overall design is cohesive, with every element working together to create a vehicle that is both stylish and functional. It's a vehicle that turns heads and makes a statement.

Detailed Exterior Features

  • LED Headlights: Offering superior illumination and a modern look.
  • 20-inch Alloy Wheels: Providing a premium aesthetic.
  • Panoramic Sunroof: Enhancing the sense of spaciousness and enjoyment.
  • Aerodynamic Design: Contributing to fuel efficiency and reduced noise.
  • Chrome Accents: Adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Interior Comfort and Features

Stepping inside the 2015 Nissan Murano Platinum feels like entering a sanctuary of comfort and luxury. The interior is designed with premium materials, soft-touch surfaces, and meticulous attention to detail. The Platinum trim comes loaded with features designed to enhance the driving experience and provide maximum comfort for both the driver and passengers. The seats are upholstered in high-quality leather, with the front seats offering heating and cooling functions to keep you comfortable in any weather. The driver's seat is power-adjustable with memory settings, making it easy to find and save your perfect driving position. The rear seats also offer generous legroom and headroom, making them comfortable for adults on long journeys. The cabin is spacious and airy, thanks to the panoramic sunroof, which floods the interior with natural light.

The dashboard is elegantly designed, with a flowing, uncluttered layout. The center console houses an intuitive infotainment system with a large touchscreen display. This system provides access to navigation, audio controls, smartphone integration, and other features. The Platinum trim also includes premium features like a Bose audio system, which delivers exceptional sound quality throughout the cabin. Other notable features include a power liftgate, which makes it easy to load and unload cargo, and a surround-view monitor, which provides a 360-degree view around the vehicle, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze. The interior is also well-insulated, minimizing road and wind noise, creating a quiet and serene environment. From the materials used to the features included, the interior of the 2015 Murano Platinum is designed to provide a truly luxurious experience. It's a place where you can relax, unwind, and enjoy the journey, no matter how long or short it may be.

Key Interior Highlights

  • Premium Leather Seats: Providing superior comfort and style.
  • Heated and Cooled Front Seats: Ensuring comfort in all weather conditions.
  • Bose Audio System: Delivering exceptional sound quality.
  • Panoramic Sunroof: Enhancing the sense of spaciousness.
  • Power Liftgate: Adding convenience for cargo handling.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the 2015 Nissan Murano Platinum is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces a respectable amount of power. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which provides smooth and efficient power delivery. The CVT helps to maximize fuel efficiency, making the Murano a relatively economical choice for a mid-size SUV. The engine provides ample power for everyday driving, with brisk acceleration and confident highway merging capabilities. The Murano offers a comfortable and composed ride, with well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road. The steering is responsive and precise, providing good feedback to the driver. The vehicle is available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The AWD system provides enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The Murano Platinum offers a balanced combination of performance, efficiency, and ride comfort. It's a vehicle that's enjoyable to drive, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend road trip.

The engine's responsiveness and smooth power delivery make it a pleasure to drive in various conditions. The CVT transmission, while sometimes a point of contention among enthusiasts, contributes to the overall efficiency and contributes to the relaxed driving experience that the Murano offers. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing too much in the way of handling. The all-wheel drive system, available on some trims, offers added peace of mind, especially in areas with inclement weather. The Murano's performance characteristics align well with its overall design and purpose: to provide a comfortable, stylish, and practical SUV for everyday use. The vehicle is designed to be a reliable and enjoyable companion for both the driver and the passengers, making it a great option for families or anyone who values comfort and style in their daily commute or weekend adventures.

Performance Specifications

  • Engine: 3.5-liter V6
  • Power: Approximately 260 horsepower
  • Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
  • Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Technology and Safety Features

The 2015 Nissan Murano Platinum is packed with advanced technology and safety features designed to keep you connected, entertained, and safe on the road. The infotainment system, with its large touchscreen display, offers a user-friendly interface and provides access to various features, including navigation, audio controls, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Bose audio system delivers premium sound quality, enhancing the overall driving experience. The Murano Platinum also includes a suite of advanced safety features to protect you and your passengers. These features may include blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features use sensors and cameras to monitor the road and provide alerts or assistance to the driver, helping to prevent accidents. The surround-view monitor provides a 360-degree view around the vehicle, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier and safer. With its blend of technology and safety features, the Murano Platinum offers a modern and secure driving experience.

The integration of technology is seamless, and the infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto means that drivers can easily connect their smartphones and access their favorite apps, music, and navigation services directly through the vehicle's display. The advanced safety features provide added peace of mind, helping to mitigate the risk of accidents and protect occupants. The combination of technology and safety features makes the 2015 Murano Platinum a well-equipped SUV for the modern driver. These features are not just add-ons; they are integrated into the overall driving experience, contributing to a more comfortable, safer, and connected ride. The focus on safety is a crucial aspect of the Murano's design, reflecting Nissan's commitment to providing vehicles that meet high standards of protection and driver assistance.

Key Tech and Safety Highlights

  • Infotainment System: Featuring a large touchscreen and smartphone integration.
  • Bose Audio System: Delivering premium sound quality.
  • Blind-Spot Monitoring: Enhancing safety on the road.
  • Lane Departure Warning: Helping prevent accidents.
  • Surround-View Monitor: Making parking easier.

Driving Experience and Handling

Driving the 2015 Nissan Murano Platinum is a genuinely pleasant experience. The vehicle's smooth ride, responsive steering, and comfortable interior combine to create a relaxed and enjoyable driving atmosphere. The V6 engine provides ample power for both city and highway driving, while the CVT transmission ensures smooth and efficient power delivery. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. The steering is responsive and precise, giving the driver a good feel for the road. The available all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, making it a capable vehicle in various weather conditions. The Murano's quiet cabin further contributes to the overall driving experience, minimizing road and wind noise. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the Murano Platinum offers a comfortable and engaging driving experience.

The vehicle's handling characteristics are well-suited to its purpose as a comfortable and practical SUV. It's not designed to be a sporty vehicle, but its responsive steering and composed handling make it easy and enjoyable to drive in various conditions. The all-wheel drive system provides added confidence, especially in inclement weather. The Murano is a great choice for families or anyone who values a comfortable, reliable, and easy-to-drive SUV. The overall driving experience is one of refinement and ease. The combination of a powerful engine, a smooth transmission, a comfortable ride, and a quiet cabin makes the Murano Platinum a pleasure to drive day in and day out. It's a vehicle that feels as good on the open road as it does navigating city streets.

Driving Dynamics

  • Smooth Ride: Comfortable and composed.
  • Responsive Steering: Providing good feedback.
  • Available All-Wheel Drive: Enhancing traction and stability.
  • Quiet Cabin: Minimizing road and wind noise.

Fuel Economy

The 2015 Nissan Murano Platinum offers respectable fuel economy for its class. The EPA estimates vary depending on the drivetrain, but generally, the Murano achieves around 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive models typically see a slight decrease in fuel efficiency. While not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, the Murano's fuel economy is reasonable for its size and performance. Drivers should expect to achieve a combined fuel economy of around 24 mpg, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and longer trips. The CVT transmission helps to optimize fuel efficiency, contributing to the overall economical performance of the vehicle. The Murano's fuel economy is in line with other vehicles in its segment, making it a competitive option for those seeking a stylish and comfortable SUV without compromising too much on fuel efficiency.

The fuel economy figures are a significant factor for many potential buyers, and the Murano's performance in this area is generally considered to be adequate. The combination of the V6 engine and the CVT transmission works to provide a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. While other vehicles might offer slightly better fuel economy, the Murano's overall blend of features, comfort, and performance makes it a worthwhile choice for many. Considering the vehicle's size, power, and level of equipment, the fuel economy is competitive. Owners can expect to enjoy a comfortable ride without facing excessive fuel costs, which is a key advantage for anyone seeking an SUV that can handle both city driving and highway cruising.

Fuel Efficiency Data

  • City: Approximately 21 mpg (FWD)
  • Highway: Approximately 28 mpg (FWD)
  • Combined: Around 24 mpg (FWD)

Reliability and Maintenance

The 2015 Nissan Murano Platinum generally receives good ratings for reliability. However, like any vehicle, regular maintenance is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Nissan vehicles are known for their generally good reliability, and the Murano is no exception. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, is crucial for keeping the vehicle in top condition. Owners should follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule to ensure that all necessary maintenance tasks are performed. The availability of parts and the widespread presence of Nissan service centers make it relatively easy to maintain the Murano. Regular maintenance can help prevent major issues and extend the lifespan of the vehicle. By taking good care of the Murano, owners can enjoy years of reliable service and a comfortable driving experience.

Maintaining the vehicle's overall performance and value is essential. Following the service schedule ensures the engine runs efficiently, the brakes function effectively, and other critical components remain in good working order. Regular maintenance can also help identify potential problems early on, before they escalate into more costly repairs. Nissan's reputation for reliability is a significant selling point, but it's important to remember that all vehicles require proper care. Investing time and effort in regular maintenance can prevent unexpected breakdowns and preserve the vehicle's value. From oil changes to brake replacements, each maintenance task contributes to the Murano's longevity and reliability, offering owners peace of mind and a smooth driving experience for years to come.

Key Maintenance Considerations

  • Regular Oil Changes: Maintaining engine health.
  • Tire Rotations: Ensuring even tire wear.
  • Brake Inspections: Ensuring safety.
  • Following the Service Schedule: Maximizing reliability.

Pros and Cons

Let's break down the 2015 Nissan Murano Platinum to see the good and the bad.

Pros:

  • Stylish Design: The Murano stands out with its modern and sleek appearance.
  • Comfortable Interior: Offers premium materials and a spacious cabin.
  • Advanced Features: Equipped with a range of technology and safety features.
  • Smooth Ride: Provides a comfortable and composed driving experience.
  • Reliability: Generally considered reliable with proper maintenance.

Cons:

  • Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is average compared to some competitors.
  • Cargo Space: Cargo space is decent but not class-leading.
  • CVT Transmission: Some drivers may not prefer the feel of the CVT transmission.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2015 Nissan Murano Platinum is an excellent choice for those seeking a stylish, comfortable, and well-equipped mid-size SUV. With its eye-catching design, luxurious interior, advanced features, and smooth driving experience, the Murano Platinum offers a compelling package. While fuel economy and cargo space may not be best in class, the overall value and driving experience make it a strong contender in its segment. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that prioritizes style, comfort, and technology, the 2015 Nissan Murano Platinum is definitely worth considering. It provides a blend of practicality and luxury that will appeal to a wide range of drivers. Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs and preferences, but the Murano Platinum's strengths make it a solid choice.

This detailed review should give you a good idea of what to expect if you're considering the 2015 Nissan Murano Platinum. Good luck with your car search!