The 2017 Nissan Murano represents a significant moment for the crossover, marking a return to a more engaging driving experience while maintaining its reputation for comfort and sophisticated Japanese engineering. Inside, the focus shifts to a serene cabin designed to reduce driver fatigue during long commutes and ensure passengers arrive relaxed. This model year refined the architecture to improve handling, transforming the Murano from a simple family hauler into a more dynamic presence on the road.
Refined Driving Dynamics and Performance
Under the hood, the 2017 model year introduced a significant change with the standard Xtronic CVT paired with a newly available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system. This combination was engineered to provide seamless power delivery and enhanced traction in various weather conditions. The addition of a rear stabilizer bar was a crucial update, directly addressing previous handling complaints by reducing body roll through corners. Drivers will appreciate the more responsive steering, which provides better road feedback than its predecessors, making the journey feel connected rather than detached.
Premium Interior Design and Materials
Stepping inside, the 2017 Murano impresses with a cabin that feels genuinely upscale, avoiding the cheap plastics often found in competitors. The dashboard wraps around the driver in soft-touch materials, while higher trims feature rich, semi-aniline leather upholstery that ages beautifully. The design philosophy emphasizes simplicity, with clean lines and a horizontal orientation that creates a sense of spaciousness. Ambient lighting, available on upper trims, adds a touch of elegance that elevates the atmosphere from mere transportation to a mobile sanctuary.
Seating Comfort and Configuration
The front captain’s seats offer substantial support and are bolstered to keep occupants secure during spirited driving. They are also highly adjustable, ensuring a perfect ergonomic position for drivers of various sizes. The second-row bench seat, a signature of the Murano, provides ample room for three adults, though many buyers appreciate the optional second-row captain’s chairs. These individual seats not only enhance the luxury feel but also make it easier for third-row passengers to climb in and out, improving the overall usability of the 60/40 split third row.
Technology and Infotainment Features
The 2017 model year brings a modern 7-inch touch-screen display that serves as the command center for the vehicle’s technology. This system integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly, allowing drivers to access their smartphone apps with ease. The available Bose audio system delivers a rich, immersive soundscape that fills the cabin without distortion, even at higher volumes. Complementing the audio experience are advanced safety features like Around View Monitor, which utilizes cameras to provide a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle, making parking in tight urban spaces significantly less stressful.
Practicality and Daily Usability
Beyond the tech and comfort, the Murano excels as a practical family vehicle. The third-row seating expands capacity to seven, though it is best suited for children or occasional adult passengers due to its snug confines. The rear cargo area is surprisingly versatile, and with the rear seats folded, the space becomes massive for hauling groceries, luggage, or sporting equipment. Easy-access doors on the second row add a layer of convenience for loading and unloading younger passengers, a detail that appreciates over time.
Safety and Reliability Considerations
Nissan equipped the 2017 Murano with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies under the banner of Intelligent Mobility. This includes features like Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Intervention, and Lane Departure Warning. These systems work subtly in the background to correct potential mistakes before they become accidents. Owners have reported generally positive long-term reliability, with the VQ35DE engine proving to be a robust component when maintained with regular service intervals.
