2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD: Honest Review

by Alex Braham 41 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD. This sleek SUV has been turning heads for a while, and we're here to give you the lowdown on everything it offers. From its performance and comfort to its tech and overall value, we'll cover it all. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD

The 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD is a mid-size SUV that seamlessly blends style, comfort, and practicality. It's designed to appeal to those who want a vehicle that's both sophisticated and functional. The Murano stands out with its distinctive exterior, featuring a bold V-motion grille, boomerang-shaped headlights, and a floating roof design that gives it a modern, almost futuristic look. This model, the SL AWD, adds all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and capability in various weather conditions.

Inside, the Murano SL AWD offers a premium experience with leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The cabin is spacious and well-appointed, providing ample room for passengers and cargo. Nissan has paid close attention to detail, using high-quality materials and ensuring a quiet and comfortable ride. The SL trim level includes a range of features such as a Bose premium audio system, navigation, and advanced safety technologies, making it a well-rounded package for discerning buyers.

Under the hood, the Murano SL AWD is powered by a reliable 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience. Paired with Nissan's Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Murano offers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend road trip, the Murano provides a comfortable and refined ride. It's a vehicle that's equally at home in the city and on the open road, making it a versatile choice for families and individuals alike. With its combination of style, comfort, and technology, the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD aims to deliver a premium SUV experience without the premium price tag.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD doesn't disappoint. Under the hood, you'll find a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that churns out a healthy 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for everyday driving, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The Murano's V6 is known for its smooth and responsive nature, making it a pleasure to drive in various conditions. The engine is paired with Nissan's Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), which further enhances the driving experience by providing seamless gear transitions and optimizing fuel efficiency.

The all-wheel-drive (AWD) system in the Murano SL AWD adds an extra layer of confidence, especially in inclement weather. The system automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels to provide optimal traction and stability. This is particularly useful in snowy or rainy conditions, where it helps to prevent slippage and maintain control. The AWD system works seamlessly in the background, so you don't have to worry about manually engaging it. It's always on and ready to provide extra grip when needed.

Handling-wise, the Murano offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and relaxed driving experience. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. While the Murano isn't designed to be a sporty SUV, it offers a good balance of comfort and agility. It's a vehicle that's well-suited for long road trips, as it provides a comfortable and quiet cabin. The Murano's handling is predictable and confidence-inspiring, making it a great choice for drivers of all skill levels. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure, the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD delivers a satisfying driving experience.

Interior Comfort and Features

Stepping inside the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD, you're immediately greeted by a cabin that prioritizes comfort and convenience. The seats are upholstered in premium leather, providing a soft and supportive feel. Both the front seats are heated, which is a welcome feature on chilly mornings. The driver's seat offers power adjustments, allowing you to find the perfect seating position. The passenger seat also offers power adjustments, ensuring that your co-pilot is equally comfortable.

The Murano SL AWD boasts a spacious interior with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats can comfortably accommodate three adults, making it a great choice for families or those who frequently travel with friends. The rear seats also recline, allowing passengers to customize their seating position for added comfort. The Murano also offers a generous amount of cargo space behind the rear seats, making it easy to haul groceries, luggage, or other gear. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, which is useful for transporting larger items.

In terms of features, the Murano SL AWD is well-equipped with a range of amenities designed to enhance your driving experience. The infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display that's easy to use and navigate. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. The Murano also comes with a Bose premium audio system, which delivers crisp and clear sound quality. Other notable features include a navigation system, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate. The Murano SL AWD is designed to provide a comfortable and convenient driving experience, making it a great choice for those who value both style and substance.

Technology and Safety

The 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD is packed with technology features that enhance both convenience and safety. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is an 8-inch touchscreen display that provides access to navigation, audio controls, and smartphone integration. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility allow you to seamlessly connect your smartphone, enabling you to use your favorite apps, make calls, and send texts through the car's interface. The Murano also comes with a Bose premium audio system, which delivers a high-quality listening experience. The system features multiple speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin, providing rich and immersive sound.

In terms of safety, the Murano SL AWD is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies. These include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you when there's a vehicle in your blind spot, helping you to avoid collisions when changing lanes. Rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. Automatic emergency braking can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or prevent an accident. The Murano also comes with adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you, automatically adjusting your speed as needed.

The Murano SL AWD also features a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of the area behind the car when you're backing up. This is particularly useful for avoiding obstacles and pedestrians. The Murano has earned high safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), reflecting its commitment to safety. With its combination of advanced technology and safety features, the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD provides peace of mind for both drivers and passengers.

Fuel Economy and Value

Fuel economy is an important consideration for many car buyers, and the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD offers competitive numbers in its class. The Murano is rated at an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. These figures are respectable for a mid-size SUV with a V6 engine and all-wheel drive. The Murano's fuel efficiency is aided by its Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is designed to optimize engine performance and minimize fuel consumption. The Murano also features an Eco mode, which can be activated to further improve fuel economy.

In terms of value, the Murano SL AWD offers a compelling package. It comes with a long list of standard features, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, a Bose premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies. The Murano's stylish design and comfortable interior make it a desirable choice for those who want a premium SUV experience without the premium price tag. The Murano also has a good reputation for reliability, which can save you money on maintenance and repairs in the long run.

The Murano SL AWD holds its value well over time, which is an important consideration if you plan to trade it in or sell it in the future. The Murano's resale value is competitive with other SUVs in its class. Overall, the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD offers a good balance of fuel economy, features, and value, making it a smart choice for those who are looking for a stylish and practical SUV. It's a vehicle that's well-suited for families, commuters, and anyone who wants a comfortable and reliable ride.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD.

Pros:

  • Stylish Design: The Murano stands out with its distinctive exterior and modern styling.
  • Comfortable Interior: The cabin is spacious and well-appointed, with premium materials and comfortable seats.
  • Smooth Ride: The suspension is tuned to provide a smooth and relaxed driving experience.
  • User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is easy to use and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
  • Advanced Safety Features: The Murano is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking.
  • Good Fuel Economy: The Murano offers competitive fuel economy for its class.

Cons:

  • CVT Transmission: Some drivers may not like the feel of the continuously variable transmission.
  • Not as Sporty: The Murano is not designed to be a sporty SUV, so it may not appeal to those who prioritize performance.
  • Limited Cargo Space: While the Murano offers a decent amount of cargo space, it's not as much as some of its competitors.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD? Overall, it's a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling blend of style, comfort, and technology. It's a great choice for those who want a premium SUV experience without breaking the bank. The Murano's stylish design, comfortable interior, and smooth ride make it a pleasure to drive. The user-friendly technology and advanced safety features add to its appeal. While the CVT transmission may not be for everyone, it does contribute to the Murano's good fuel economy.

If you're looking for a stylish and comfortable SUV that's packed with features, the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD is definitely worth considering. It's a vehicle that's well-suited for families, commuters, and anyone who wants a reliable and enjoyable ride. Just be sure to take it for a test drive to see if it's the right fit for you. Thanks for joining us for this review, and we'll see you in the next one!