2015 Nissan Murano: A Comprehensive Review

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2015 Nissan Murano, a crossover that really made waves when it first hit the scene. If you're guys are curious about what this mid-size SUV had to offer back then, and whether it still holds up today, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything from its stylish exterior to its surprisingly comfortable interior and how it handles on the road. So, buckle up, because we're about to give you the lowdown on the 2015 Murano!

Exterior Design: A Bold Statement

Let's start with the looks, because honestly, the 2015 Nissan Murano was a real head-turner. Nissan really went for a bold, futuristic design with this generation, and it paid off. When it was released, it stood out from the usual boxy SUV crowd. You'll notice that distinctive V-motion grille up front, which has become a signature Nissan look over the years. It’s sleek, it’s aggressive, and it gives the Murano a premium feel. The flowing lines and the floating roof effect created by the blacked-out pillars are pretty cool too, giving it a more dynamic and less utilitarian appearance than many of its competitors. The lighting is also noteworthy, with boomerang-shaped taillights and available LED daytime running lights that add to its modern aesthetic. Honestly, this car didn’t look like it was trying too hard to be an SUV; it felt more like a stylish wagon or a sporty coupe on stilts. Even now, a few years later, the 2015 Murano doesn't look dated. It’s got a design that has aged pretty gracefully, which is a testament to Nissan's design team. You had a few trim levels, of course, and these could slightly alter the look with different wheel sizes and other subtle accents, but the core design remained consistent and striking across the board. If you’re someone who likes their vehicle to make a statement, the 2015 Murano definitely fits the bill. It was a deliberate departure from the previous generation, aiming for a more emotional connection with buyers rather than just pure practicality. This focus on style means it’s still a good-looking vehicle on the road today.

Interior Comfort and Features: A Cozy Cabin

Now, let's hop inside the 2015 Nissan Murano. This is where things get really interesting, guys. Nissan put a ton of effort into making the cabin feel like a comfortable, almost lounge-like space, and for the most part, they nailed it. The seats are a major highlight. Nissan calls them "Zero Gravity" seats, and seriously, they live up to the name. Inspired by NASA research, these seats are designed to reduce fatigue on long drives. They offer excellent support and are incredibly comfortable, especially the front seats. Even the rear seats are surprisingly spacious and comfortable, with a decent amount of legroom and headroom, making it a great option for families or if you often have passengers. The overall cabin ambiance is premium. You'll find soft-touch materials on most surfaces, a well-organized dashboard, and a general sense of quality that you might not expect in this segment. The design is clean and modern, with a focus on the driver and front passenger. The infotainment system, while maybe not as cutting-edge as today's systems, was pretty decent for 2015. You got things like a 7-inch color display, Bluetooth connectivity, and available navigation. Higher trims came with an 8-inch touchscreen, a Bose audio system, and dual-zone automatic climate control, which really elevated the experience. The available panoramic sunroof is also a huge plus, making the cabin feel even airier and more spacious. Storage is also thoughtfully integrated, with a decent-sized center console and door pockets. Nissan seemed to prioritize passenger comfort and a premium feel over sheer cargo volume, which is something to consider if you haul a lot of stuff regularly. But for everyday driving and longer trips, the 2015 Murano’s interior is a seriously comfortable place to be. The quality of the materials used and the ergonomic design really make it feel more upscale than its price tag might suggest, offering a truly relaxing environment for everyone on board. The attention to detail in the interior design, from the stitching on the seats to the layout of the controls, contributes to a refined driving experience.

Performance and Handling: Smooth Operator

When it comes to getting around, the 2015 Nissan Murano is all about a smooth and comfortable ride. Under the hood, you'll find a capable 3.5-liter V6 engine that puts out a respectable 260 horsepower. This is plenty of power for most situations, whether you’re merging onto the highway, passing slower traffic, or just cruising around town. It’s not going to win any drag races, but it’s certainly not underpowered. The engine is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which is typical for Nissan. Now, CVTs can be a bit polarizing; some people love them for their smoothness and efficiency, while others dislike the "rubber band" feel they can sometimes produce. In the 2015 Murano, the CVT is tuned quite well. It generally provides smooth acceleration and keeps the engine in its sweet spot for optimal fuel economy. You won't experience harsh gear shifts, which adds to the overall refined feel of the vehicle. Handling-wise, the Murano leans towards comfort rather than sportiness. The suspension is tuned to soak up bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a plush ride. This makes it a fantastic companion for long road trips. The steering is light and easy, making maneuvering in tight spaces or parking lots a breeze. However, if you're looking for a crossover that feels sharp and engaging in the corners, the Murano might feel a bit soft. It’s not a bad handler by any means, but it prioritizes a smooth, quiet, and comfortable experience over sporty dynamics. All-wheel drive was available, which is a great option if you live in an area with inclement weather, providing added traction and confidence. Fuel economy for the 2015 Murano with the V6 engine and CVT is respectable, typically around 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway, which is competitive for its class. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2015 Murano are geared towards delivering a relaxed and refined driving experience, making it an excellent choice for those who value comfort and a quiet cabin.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind

Safety is a huge concern for everyone, guys, and the 2015 Nissan Murano came equipped with a solid set of safety features to provide peace of mind. As standard, you'd find the usual suspects: a comprehensive airbag system (including front, side-impact, and curtain airbags), anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, and traction control. These are the foundational elements that help protect occupants in the event of a collision and assist in preventing accidents. But where the 2015 Murano really started to shine was with its available advanced safety technologies, which were becoming increasingly common around that time. Depending on the trim level and options chosen, buyers could equip their Murano with features like a blind-spot warning system, which alerts you if a vehicle is lurking in your blind spot – super helpful for lane changes! There was also a rear cross-traffic alert, fantastic for backing out of parking spaces when visibility is limited. More advanced systems available included forward collision warning, which could alert you if you were approaching another vehicle too quickly, and the popular Around View Monitor. This camera system gives you a bird's-eye view of the car's surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spots incredibly easy and reducing the risk of minor bumps and scrapes. While it didn't have quite the sheer volume of driver-assistance features that you see in brand-new cars today, the 2015 Murano offered a good selection of modern safety aids that significantly enhanced driver awareness and contributed to its overall safety profile. These features worked together to not only protect occupants but also to help drivers avoid dangerous situations altogether. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) generally gave the Murano good ratings for its crashworthiness, underscoring its commitment to occupant protection. So, if safety was a priority for you back in 2015, the Murano had a lot to offer.

Trim Levels and Value: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck

When you're looking at a vehicle like the 2015 Nissan Murano, understanding the different trim levels is key to finding the one that best suits your needs and budget, guys. Nissan offered the Murano in several trims, typically starting with the S, then moving up to the SV, SL, and the top-tier Platinum. Each level built upon the previous one, adding more features and luxury touches. The base 'S' model, while the most affordable, still came with essential features like a rearview camera, Bluetooth, and the comfortable "Zero Gravity" seats. Moving up to the 'SV' usually added things like alloy wheels, an 8-way power driver's seat, and an upgraded audio system. The 'SL' trim often brought in leather upholstery, a power liftgate, blind-spot monitoring, and a premium Bose sound system, really starting to feel quite luxurious. Finally, the 'Platinum' trim was the full monty, typically including everything from the SL plus a panoramic sunroof, 20-inch alloy wheels, and advanced safety features like forward collision warning. The beauty of the 2015 Murano was its ability to offer a near-luxury experience at a more mainstream price point, especially in the higher trims. When it was new, it competed against rivals like the Ford Edge, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Toyota Highlander, but it often distinguished itself with its more stylish design and upscale interior ambiance. For someone looking for a used vehicle today, the 2015 Murano represents a potentially great value. You can often find them at a more accessible price point than comparable vehicles from other brands, and you still get that striking design and comfortable cabin. When considering the value, it's important to look at the specific features included in the trim you're interested in. A well-maintained SL or Platinum model can offer a surprisingly premium experience without the hefty price tag of a new luxury SUV. Regular maintenance records are crucial when buying any used car, but especially so for a vehicle like the Murano, which encourages comfortable and often longer drives. So, exploring the different trims and understanding what features are important to you will definitely help you score a great deal on a 2015 Murano and get the most bang for your buck.

The Verdict: Still a Solid Choice?

So, after all that, is the 2015 Nissan Murano still a good buy today, guys? Absolutely, for the right person! If you prioritize a comfortable ride, a stylish design that still looks modern, and a surprisingly upscale interior, then the 2015 Murano is definitely worth considering. The "Zero Gravity" seats alone are a major selling point for anyone who spends a lot of time on the road. Its V6 engine provides ample power for daily driving and highway cruising, and the available AWD adds versatility. The advanced safety features available on higher trims also add a layer of security. Of course, it's not perfect. If you need massive cargo space, there might be better options out there. And if you're looking for a sporty driving experience with razor-sharp handling, this might not be your cup of tea. The CVT, while smooth, might not appeal to everyone. However, when you weigh its strengths – comfort, style, premium feel, and available features – against its few weaknesses, the 2015 Murano emerges as a very compelling package, especially on the used market. It’s a crossover that offers a more refined and emotionally engaging experience than many of its more utilitarian rivals. It’s proof that a family vehicle doesn’t have to be boring. So, if you can find one in good condition with reasonable mileage, the 2015 Nissan Murano could very well be a fantastic find for your next vehicle. It offers a blend of comfort, style, and value that still holds up pretty well years later!