2021 Nissan Murano: A Comprehensive Review

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2021 Nissan Murano. If you're in the market for a stylish and comfortable midsize SUV, the Murano is definitely a contender worth checking out. Nissan has been refining this model for a while now, and the 2021 version comes with some neat tweaks that make it even more appealing. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its stunning exterior design to the cozy interior, its performance on the road, and all the tech features that make driving it a breeze. So, buckle up, because we're about to give you the full rundown!

Exterior Elegance and First Impressions

First off, let's talk about how the 2021 Nissan Murano looks. It's a real head-turner, guys! Nissan has always been good at making their vehicles look premium, and the Murano is a prime example of that. The exterior design features that signature V-Motion grille upfront, which really gives it a bold and aggressive stance. The sleek lines flow all the way back, creating a profile that's both dynamic and sophisticated. You'll notice the floating roof design, which adds a modern and airy feel, making the Murano stand out from its more boxy competitors. The LED headlights and taillights are not just functional but also add to its upscale appearance, especially when illuminated at night. For 2021, Nissan didn't make huge changes, but that's okay because the Murano's design is timeless. It strikes a perfect balance between sporty and elegant, making it suitable for everything from a daily commute to a weekend getaway. Whether you choose one of the vibrant color options or a more classic shade, the Murano's curb appeal is undeniable. It's one of those SUVs that you'll be happy to see parked in your driveway. The attention to detail, like the chrome accents and the sculpted body panels, really elevates its overall look, giving it a more expensive feel than its price tag might suggest. It's a design that appeals to a broad audience, avoiding overly aggressive styling that can alienate some buyers, while still maintaining a distinct personality. The wheel designs also contribute significantly to the overall aesthetic, with larger options on higher trims really filling out the wheel wells and enhancing the vehicle's planted stance. Even the rear of the Murano is thoughtfully designed, with a sculpted tailgate and integrated spoiler that hint at its athletic capabilities, all while maintaining a clean and uncluttered look.

Interior Comfort and Space

Now, let's step inside the 2021 Nissan Murano. This is where the Murano truly shines, in my opinion. Nissan calls its seats "Zero Gravity" seats, and trust me, they live up to the name. They are incredibly comfortable, providing excellent support for long drives. You'll feel like you're sitting on clouds! The cabin is spacious, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. This means no more squabbling over who has to sit in the back on those long road trips, guys. The materials used throughout the cabin are high-quality, especially in the higher trims. You'll find soft-touch surfaces, premium leather options, and tasteful wood or metallic accents that give the interior a luxurious feel. It’s a very serene and quiet cabin, thanks to excellent sound insulation, which makes for a more relaxed driving experience. The dashboard is intuitively laid out, with most controls within easy reach of the driver. The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the overall ambiance of the cabin is one of sophistication and comfort. Storage space is also well-thought-out, with a decent-sized glovebox, a roomy center console, and door pockets that can actually hold your stuff. The cargo area is also generous, offering plenty of space for groceries, luggage, or whatever else you need to haul. The rear seats can be folded down to expand the cargo capacity even further, making the Murano surprisingly practical for its stylish exterior. The attention to detail extends to things like the ambient lighting, which adds a touch of warmth and elegance to the cabin, especially at night. The dual-zone automatic climate control ensures everyone stays comfortable, regardless of the outside temperature. Even the rear passengers get their own climate vents, which is a nice touch. The overall impression is that Nissan put a lot of thought into making the Murano's interior a place you'll want to spend time in, not just a place you have to be. It truly feels like a step above many of its competitors in terms of comfort and perceived quality, making it a fantastic choice for families or anyone who values a refined driving environment. The seats are heated and ventilated in many trims, adding another layer of comfort depending on the weather. The steering wheel is also a pleasure to hold, wrapped in soft leather and featuring intuitive controls.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

Under the hood, the 2021 Nissan Murano is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience. This engine puts out a healthy 260 horsepower, which is more than enough to get you around town or merge confidently onto the highway. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that’s been tuned to feel more like a traditional automatic, which is a big plus for those who aren't fans of the typical CVT drone. Power is sent to the front wheels as standard, but all-wheel drive is available if you need extra grip, especially in slippery conditions. The ride quality is excellent; the Murano glides over bumps and rough patches, providing a comfortable and composed experience. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sportiness, which aligns perfectly with the Murano's overall character as a relaxed cruiser. Steering is light and easy, making it maneuverable in tight spaces like parking lots, though it could offer a bit more feedback for those who enjoy spirited driving. For everyday driving, though, it's just right. The V6 engine provides strong acceleration when needed, and the CVT manages to keep the engine in its sweet spot for optimal performance and efficiency. While it might not be the most exciting SUV to drive in its class, the Murano offers a sophisticated and pleasant driving experience that many will appreciate. It’s a vehicle that excels at making your daily commute or long road trips feel effortless and stress-free. The braking is also confident and smooth, providing a reassuring feel. Nissan has done a good job of isolating the cabin from road and wind noise, further contributing to the quiet and refined ride. Even when you push the engine a bit harder, the CVT does a commendable job of simulating gear shifts to keep the experience more engaging. While some might prefer a more traditional transmission, Nissan's implementation here is one of the better CVTs on the market. Overall, the powertrain is well-suited to the Murano’s mission of providing a comfortable and capable midsize SUV experience. It’s not about raw speed, but about smooth, predictable power delivery and a serene journey. The available AWD system is a welcome addition for those living in areas with inclement weather, adding an extra layer of confidence and security on the road, especially during winter months or on wet surfaces. The adaptive shift control in the CVT also helps it adapt to your driving style, making it feel more responsive when you demand acceleration.

Technology and Safety Features

When it comes to technology and safety, the 2021 Nissan Murano is well-equipped to keep you connected and protected. The infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display that's standard across all trims. It's compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can easily integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and calls. The interface is pretty straightforward and easy to navigate, which is always a win, guys. You'll also find multiple USB ports and auxiliary inputs to keep all your devices charged and connected. For audio enthusiasts, higher trims offer a Bose premium audio system that delivers fantastic sound quality. But it's not just about entertainment; safety is paramount. The 2021 Murano comes standard with Nissan's Safety Shield 360, a suite of advanced driver-assistance features. This includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and high beam assist. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and make driving safer. Optional features include intelligent cruise control, which can adapt your speed to traffic, and a 360-degree parking camera system that makes maneuvering in tight spots a breeze. The availability of these advanced safety features as standard equipment is a significant selling point for the Murano, offering peace of mind for drivers and their passengers. The touchscreen is responsive to touch inputs, and the voice command system is also quite capable for hands-free operation. Connectivity options are plentiful, ensuring that everyone in the car can stay entertained and informed. The inclusion of standard advanced safety tech is a testament to Nissan's commitment to safety, making the Murano a smart choice for families. The driver-assistance features are not overly intrusive, intervening only when necessary, which makes for a less distracting driving experience. The overall tech package is user-friendly and modern, fitting well with the premium feel of the interior. The navigation system, when equipped, is clear and provides helpful real-time traffic updates. The Murano also offers remote start and a power liftgate on higher trims, adding convenience to your daily routine. The rearview camera is standard, offering a clear view behind the vehicle, and the surrounding view monitor on higher trims provides an unparalleled perspective for parking.

Trim Levels and Value

Nissan offers the 2021 Murano in several trim levels: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. Each trim builds upon the previous one, adding more features and amenities. The base S model is surprisingly well-equipped, but stepping up to the SV or SL trims adds desirable features like a power-adjustable steering wheel, heated front seats, and a larger infotainment screen on some configurations. The Platinum trim is the top-of-the-line, offering premium features like quilted leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and the fantastic Bose audio system. When considering the value, the Murano offers a compelling package, especially when you look at its stylish design, comfortable interior, and comprehensive list of standard safety features. Compared to some rivals that might charge extra for these very same features, the Murano presents a strong case for its price point. You get a lot of car for your money, with a focus on comfort and refinement that's hard to beat in this segment. The S trim is a great entry point for budget-conscious buyers who still want the Murano's core strengths. The SV adds popular upgrades that many buyers will find essential. The SL offers a more luxurious experience with added convenience features. And the Platinum trim is all about indulgence, providing a truly premium SUV experience without quite reaching the luxury brand price points. The available packages also allow for further customization, letting you tailor the Murano to your specific needs and preferences. For instance, the Technology Package on certain trims adds even more advanced driver aids and convenience features. When you factor in the comfortable ride, the V6 engine, and the extensive standard safety suite, the 2021 Murano represents a solid value proposition in the competitive midsize SUV market. It manages to blend style, comfort, and practicality in a way that appeals to a wide range of buyers looking for a premium experience without the premium price tag. It's definitely worth test driving to see how it stacks up against other options you might be considering. You're getting a vehicle that feels more expensive than it is, offering a refined driving experience that punches above its weight class in terms of overall quality and features.

Conclusion: Is the 2021 Murano Right for You?

So, there you have it, guys! The 2021 Nissan Murano is a fantastic option if you're looking for a midsize SUV that prioritizes comfort, style, and a premium feel. It boasts a striking exterior, a supremely comfortable interior with those amazing Zero Gravity seats, and a smooth, capable V6 powertrain. Plus, with the standard Safety Shield 360, you get peace of mind on every drive. It might not be the sportiest SUV out there, but it excels at being a comfortable, stylish, and well-equipped cruiser. If you value a refined ride, a quiet cabin, and a touch of luxury in your daily driver, the 2021 Murano should absolutely be on your shortlist. It offers a compelling blend of features, comfort, and style that makes it a standout choice in its segment. Whether you're commuting to work, taking the family on vacation, or just running errands, the Murano is designed to make the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Its elegant design ensures you'll arrive in style, while its comfortable interior ensures you'll arrive relaxed. The advanced safety features add an extra layer of confidence, knowing that you and your loved ones are well-protected. For those seeking an SUV that feels a bit more special than the average, the Murano delivers. It strikes a great balance between practicality and premium appeal, making it a versatile choice for many different lifestyles. It’s a well-rounded package that offers a lot of value for its price, especially considering the quality of materials and the extensive list of standard features. If you're looking for an SUV that offers a more sophisticated and comfortable experience, the 2021 Nissan Murano is definitely worth a closer look. It's a testament to Nissan's ability to create vehicles that are both stylish and exceptionally comfortable, making them a pleasure to own and drive. It's a great choice for anyone who wants an SUV that feels elevated and refined, without breaking the bank. Definitely schedule a test drive and experience the Murano difference for yourself; you might just fall in love with it!