2023 Nissan Murano Review: Stylish Comfort in an Aging SUV

2023 Nissan Murano Review shoppers may find themselves asking a simple question: does this stylish midsize SUV still deserve consideration in a segment filled with newer and more advanced competitors? It is a fair question, especially considering that the current Murano generation dates back to the 2015 model year. In automotive terms, that makes the Murano one of the oldest vehicles in its class.

Yet the Murano continues to occupy a unique position within Nissan’s SUV lineup. Sitting between the compact Rogue and the three-row Pathfinder, it appeals to buyers who want a comfortable two-row crossover with a more premium feel than most mainstream alternatives. Rather than chasing rugged capability or maximum passenger capacity, the Murano focuses on refinement, comfort, and distinctive styling.

Its exterior design remains one of the most recognizable in the midsize crossover segment. The sweeping roofline, floating-roof treatment, and sculpted bodywork help the Murano stand apart from the increasingly boxy shapes that dominate today’s SUV market. Even years after its introduction, it still manages to attract attention in parking lots and on highways.

Under the hood, every 2023 Murano comes equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. While many rivals have switched to smaller turbocharged four-cylinder engines, Nissan continues to offer traditional V6 power. The result is smooth acceleration and a relaxed driving character that suits the Murano’s personality exceptionally well.

Comfort has long been one of the Murano’s greatest strengths. The seats are among the most supportive in the segment, road trips are handled with ease, and the cabin remains impressively quiet at highway speeds. For drivers who spend significant time commuting or traveling long distances, these qualities often matter more than having the latest touchscreen or the newest digital interface.

However, the Murano’s age is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. Newer competitors offer larger infotainment displays, more advanced technology, greater cargo flexibility, stronger towing capability, and more efficient powertrains. Even Nissan’s own Rogue and Pathfinder now feel more modern in several key areas.

The 2023 Nissan Murano remains an appealing option for buyers who prioritize comfort, V6 smoothness, and standout styling. But in a rapidly evolving segment, its biggest challenge is no longer proving its strengths. It is proving that those strengths are enough to outweigh its increasingly obvious shortcomings.

Our Take

The 2023 Nissan Murano feels like a vehicle from a different era, and surprisingly, that is not always a bad thing. In a market increasingly dominated by turbocharged engines, oversized touchscreens, and complex technology, the Murano offers something refreshingly straightforward. It focuses on comfort, refinement, and ease of use rather than chasing trends.

What impressed us most is how well the Murano still handles everyday driving duties. The V6 engine remains smooth and responsive, the seats are exceptionally comfortable, and the cabin feels quieter than many newer competitors. For buyers who spend hours behind the wheel each week, these qualities can make a meaningful difference.

At the same time, the Murano’s age is impossible to overlook. The infotainment system feels dated, cargo space trails some rivals, and the 1,500-pound towing capacity limits its versatility. Buyers seeking the latest technology or maximum practicality will likely find stronger alternatives elsewhere.

Ultimately, the Murano succeeds because it offers a driving experience centered around comfort and character. It may not be the most modern midsize SUV on sale, but for shoppers who value refinement over innovation, it remains a compelling and surprisingly enjoyable choice.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Smooth and refined 3.5-liter V6 engine
• Exceptionally comfortable front and rear seats
• Distinctive exterior styling that still stands out
• Quiet cabin during highway driving
• User-friendly controls and infotainment layout
• Strong list of standard safety features

Cons

• Aging platform compared with newer rivals
• Small infotainment screen for the segment
• Limited 1,500-pound towing capacity
• Less cargo space than several competitors
• Rear visibility compromised by the sloping roofline
• No hybrid or turbocharged engine option

What’s New for 2023

The 2023 Nissan Murano receives only minor changes as Nissan continues to carry over the current generation largely unchanged. The overall design, powertrain, and interior layout remain familiar, reflecting the vehicle’s long production cycle.

One of the most notable updates is the continued availability of the Midnight Edition package on the SV trim. This package adds black exterior accents, unique badging, and gloss-black 20-inch wheels that give the Murano a more aggressive and contemporary appearance without changing its core character.

Beyond that, the Murano enters 2023 with the same four-trim lineup consisting of S, SV, SL, and Platinum models. Nissan continues to emphasize comfort, safety, and V6 performance rather than introducing major technological or mechanical revisions, making the 2023 model largely a continuation of the formula buyers have known for several years.

Exterior Design

The 2023 Nissan Murano remains one of the most distinctive-looking midsize SUVs on the road. While many competitors have adopted upright, boxy styling themes, the Murano continues to embrace a more sculpted and aerodynamic appearance. Its flowing lines and coupe-inspired profile help it stand apart from more conventional family crossovers.

At the front, Nissan’s signature V-Motion grille gives the Murano a bold presence. Sharp LED lighting elements, a wide stance, and aggressive front-end detailing create a premium look that still feels contemporary despite the vehicle’s age. Few SUVs in this segment have managed to retain their visual appeal as successfully as the Murano.

The side profile is arguably where the design shines most. The sweeping roofline, rising beltline, and floating-roof effect create a sleek silhouette that looks more sophisticated than many competitors. This design approach gives the Murano a sense of motion even when parked, helping it maintain a premium image.

The downside of this styling approach is practicality. The sloping roof and thick rear pillars reduce rearward visibility compared to more traditional SUV designs. Drivers often find themselves relying on blind-spot monitoring and camera systems more frequently than they would in some rivals.

Even so, the Murano’s exterior remains one of its strongest selling points. While newer competitors may offer fresher technology and more versatility, few match the Murano’s ability to blend elegance, character, and visual sophistication into a package that still turns heads years after its introduction.

Driving Experience

The 2023 Nissan Murano is designed to make everyday driving as relaxing as possible. From the moment you pull away, it becomes clear that Nissan prioritized comfort and refinement over sporty handling. The Murano feels calm, composed, and easy to drive in nearly every situation.

Steering is light at lower speeds, making parking lots and urban driving less stressful. As speed increases, the steering gains additional weight to improve confidence on the highway. While it never feels particularly sporty, it delivers predictable responses that suit the vehicle’s mission well.

The suspension strikes a comfortable balance between control and ride quality. Most road imperfections are absorbed effectively, and the Murano remains composed over rough pavement. It is particularly impressive during highway cruising, where it feels stable and relaxed even after several hours behind the wheel.

One of the Murano’s most impressive qualities is how refined it feels compared to many mainstream rivals. Cabin noise is well controlled, the powertrain operates smoothly, and the overall driving experience feels more upscale than the vehicle’s price point might suggest. This refinement is a major reason why many owners remain loyal to the Murano despite its aging platform.

Performance & Acceleration

Every 2023 Nissan Murano is powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired exclusively with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while buyers can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

The V6 remains one of the Murano’s strongest assets. Power delivery is smooth and linear, providing confident acceleration during highway merging and passing situations. Unlike some smaller turbocharged engines that can feel strained under heavy loads, the Murano’s V6 delivers power effortlessly and predictably.

Although the Murano is not intended to be a performance SUV, it feels adequately quick for daily driving. The CVT is also better refined than many competing systems, avoiding excessive droning during normal operation. Combined with the smooth V6, it creates a relaxed driving character that aligns perfectly with the Murano’s focus on comfort rather than outright speed.

Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement

Ride comfort has always been one of the Nissan Murano’s defining strengths, and the 2023 model continues to deliver one of the most relaxed driving experiences in the midsize SUV segment. While many competitors focus on sportier handling or off-road capability, the Murano prioritizes passenger comfort above all else.

The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections with minimal disruption to occupants. Whether driving through city streets, rough pavement, or expansion joints on the highway, the Murano remains composed and comfortable. This smooth ride quality immediately separates it from several firmer-riding competitors.

Nissan’s well-known Zero Gravity seats are another highlight. Both front and rear passengers benefit from excellent cushioning and support, making long-distance travel noticeably less tiring. Few mainstream SUVs offer seats that feel this comfortable after several hours on the road.

Highway refinement is equally impressive. Wind noise is well controlled, and road noise remains relatively subdued even at interstate speeds. The result is a cabin environment that feels calm and insulated, allowing passengers to enjoy conversations or music without constantly raising their voices.

The V6 engine also contributes to the Murano’s refined character. Under normal driving conditions, it operates quietly and smoothly, rarely drawing attention to itself. Unlike some turbocharged competitors, there is no sudden surge of power or excessive engine noise that disrupts the driving experience.

While larger wheels on upper trims can introduce a slightly firmer ride over sharp impacts, the Murano remains one of the most comfortable two-row SUVs in its class. For buyers who value comfort, quietness, and long-distance refinement above all else, the Murano continues to set a high standard despite its age.

Interior & Luxury Feel

The interior of the 2023 Nissan Murano feels more upscale than many buyers expect from a mainstream midsize SUV. Nissan focused heavily on comfort and visual appeal when designing the cabin, and the result is an environment that still feels welcoming years after its introduction.

The dashboard layout features flowing lines and a clean design that avoids unnecessary complexity. Controls are logically positioned, physical buttons remain easy to reach, and the overall layout prioritizes usability. Drivers who prefer traditional controls over fully digital interfaces will likely appreciate this approach.

Material quality is generally impressive, particularly in higher trim levels. Soft-touch surfaces cover many of the most frequently touched areas, and the available leather upholstery in SL and Platinum trims adds a premium atmosphere that approaches entry-level luxury vehicles.

Passenger comfort is another strength. Front-seat occupants enjoy generous headroom and shoulder room, while rear passengers have enough space to remain comfortable during longer journeys. Although some competitors offer more rear legroom, the Murano still accommodates families well.

Unlike some rivals that focus on flashy technology or rugged styling themes, Nissan prioritized refinement, comfort, and ease of use throughout the cabin. The result is an interior that may not be the newest in the segment, but one that continues to feel pleasant, sophisticated, and comfortable in everyday use.

Technology & Infotainment

Technology is one area where the 2023 Nissan Murano shows its age most clearly. The standard 8-inch touchscreen was competitive when this generation launched, but it now appears small compared with the larger displays offered by many modern rivals. Buyers moving from newer vehicles may immediately notice the difference.

That said, the system remains straightforward and easy to operate. Menus are simple, response times are acceptable, and physical shortcut buttons help reduce distractions while driving. In some ways, the Murano’s simplicity can actually be an advantage for drivers who dislike overly complicated infotainment systems.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, allowing seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music streaming, and communication. Nissan also includes navigation, multiple USB charging ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and available NissanConnect services, providing the features most drivers use on a daily basis.

Higher trims further improve the experience with an available Bose premium audio system featuring multiple speakers and dual subwoofers. While the Murano may not offer the cutting-edge technology found in newer competitors, its infotainment package remains functional, user-friendly, and perfectly adequate for most buyers. The 8-inch touchscreen now feels noticeably small compared with the 10- to 15-inch displays offered by many rivals, further highlighting the Murano’s aging design.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is respectable for a midsize SUV powered by a naturally aspirated V6 engine, though it no longer stands out in a segment increasingly populated by turbocharged and hybrid competitors. Buyers who value traditional V6 performance may find the tradeoff worthwhile, but efficiency-focused shoppers will likely discover better alternatives elsewhere.

The EPA rates the 2023 Nissan Murano at up to 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. All-wheel-drive models deliver nearly identical efficiency, making the AWD upgrade easier to justify for buyers who regularly encounter poor weather conditions.

Real-world fuel economy can vary significantly depending on driving habits, but the Murano generally performs close to its official estimates during highway travel. While those numbers are acceptable, rivals such as the Toyota Venza and several hybrid-powered competitors offer substantially better efficiency, highlighting one of the Murano’s biggest disadvantages in today’s market. The absence of a hybrid powertrain further limits the Murano’s appeal among efficiency-focused buyers.

Practicality & Cargo Space

The 2023 Nissan Murano prioritizes passenger comfort and styling over maximum utility. As a result, it offers enough practicality for most families but does not lead the segment when it comes to cargo capacity or overall versatility.

Behind the second row, the Murano provides approximately 32.1 cubic feet of cargo space. This is sufficient for groceries, luggage, sports equipment, and everyday errands, but several competitors now offer noticeably larger cargo areas despite having similar exterior dimensions.

Folding the rear seats expands cargo capacity to around 67 cubic feet. The flat load floor helps when transporting larger items, and the wide rear opening makes loading and unloading relatively easy. For most owners, the available cargo room will prove more than adequate for daily use and occasional road trips.

Interior storage, however, is less impressive. The center console and door pockets are smaller than expected for a midsize SUV, and there are fewer clever storage solutions than some competitors provide. Families who frequently carry numerous personal items may notice these limitations.

The Murano’s biggest practicality compromise is towing capacity. With a maximum towing rating of just 1,500 pounds, it falls well behind rivals such as the Honda Passport, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Nissan Pathfinder. Buyers who regularly tow trailers, boats, or recreational equipment should look elsewhere, but for everyday commuting and family duties, the Murano remains sufficiently practical.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety remains one of the Murano’s stronger attributes. Nissan equips every 2023 Murano with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies designed to help reduce driver workload and improve overall confidence behind the wheel.

Standard features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, rear automatic braking, and high-beam assist. These technologies provide valuable assistance during both city driving and highway travel, particularly given the Murano’s compromised rear visibility.

Higher trims add additional features such as Intelligent Around View Monitor, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and driver-attention monitoring. The available 360-degree camera system is especially useful when maneuvering in tight parking lots or crowded urban environments.

Crash-test performance presents a mixed picture. The Murano earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which is an excellent result. However, newer Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) evaluations were less impressive than some key rivals, reflecting the limitations of the aging platform. Even so, the Murano remains a reassuring and well-equipped family SUV from a safety standpoint.

Competitors Worth Considering

The Honda Passport is one of the strongest alternatives to the Murano. It offers a more modern platform, significantly higher towing capacity, and greater cargo versatility while maintaining a comfortable two-row layout.

The Hyundai Santa Fe delivers more technology, a fresher interior, and available hybrid powertrains. Buyers looking for better fuel economy and a more contemporary cabin may find it the more appealing choice.

The Toyota Venza targets comfort-focused shoppers much like the Murano but adds excellent hybrid efficiency and a more modern technology package. It is a compelling option for buyers who prioritize fuel savings.

The Chevrolet Blazer offers sharper styling and more engaging driving dynamics. It also provides a broader range of powertrain choices, giving shoppers greater flexibility than the Murano lineup.

The Subaru Outback takes a different approach with its wagon-like design, standard all-wheel drive, and superior practicality. It is an excellent alternative for buyers who occasionally venture beyond paved roads.

Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?

For most buyers, the SV trim represents the sweet spot in the 2023 Nissan Murano lineup. It adds a meaningful collection of comfort, convenience, and safety features without creating a significant jump in price.

The SV includes desirable equipment such as heated front seats, remote engine start, adaptive cruise control, larger wheels, and the available Midnight Edition package. These upgrades noticeably improve the ownership experience while maintaining strong value.

While the SL and Platinum trims add luxury features and premium materials, the aging platform makes it harder to justify their higher prices. For shoppers seeking the best balance of features, comfort, and affordability, the Murano SV is the version we would choose.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

The 2023 Nissan Murano remains one of the most comfortable midsize SUVs available. Its smooth V6 engine, exceptionally supportive seats, quiet cabin, and distinctive styling give it a personality that many newer competitors struggle to replicate.

However, there is no avoiding the fact that the Murano is showing its age. The infotainment system feels outdated, cargo space is merely average, and newer rivals offer more advanced technology, better efficiency, and greater overall versatility.

For buyers who value comfort above everything else, the Murano still makes a convincing case. Long-distance commuters, empty nesters, and drivers who appreciate traditional V6 power will likely find a lot to like about Nissan’s aging crossover.

But for shoppers seeking the latest technology, class-leading practicality, or maximum value for their money, several competitors have moved ahead. The 2023 Murano is still good, yet it is no longer the segment benchmark it once was. Its greatest strength today is not innovation, but refinement.

FAQ

Is the 2023 Nissan Murano still worth buying despite its aging platform?

Yes, depending on your priorities. While the Murano’s platform and technology are older than many competitors, it remains highly appealing for buyers who value ride comfort, a smooth V6 engine, supportive seating, and a quiet cabin. If comfort is more important to you than having the latest technology, the Murano still deserves consideration.

How does the 2023 Nissan Murano compare to the Nissan Rogue?

The Murano offers a more powerful V6 engine, a quieter cabin, and a more premium driving experience. However, the newer Rogue provides more modern technology, greater cargo versatility, and a more up-to-date interior design. Buyers seeking comfort may prefer the Murano, while those wanting the latest features will likely favor the Rogue.

Why does the 2023 Nissan Murano have a lower towing capacity than many rivals?

The Murano was designed primarily as a comfort-oriented crossover rather than a utility-focused SUV. Its maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds is significantly lower than competitors such as the Honda Passport and Jeep Grand Cherokee, making it less suitable for towing trailers, boats, or campers.

Is the 2023 Nissan Murano a good SUV for long road trips?

Absolutely. Long-distance comfort is one of the Murano’s greatest strengths. The supportive Zero Gravity seats, smooth V6 powertrain, quiet interior, and comfortable ride quality make it one of the most relaxing midsize SUVs for highway travel and extended journeys.

Is the 2023 Nissan Murano Review still relevant for used SUV buyers?

Yes. The 2023 Nissan Murano Review remains relevant for used SUV buyers because the Murano still offers strong comfort, smooth V6 performance, supportive seating, and a quiet cabin. However, shoppers should compare it carefully against newer rivals if they want more advanced technology, better fuel economy, or stronger cargo versatility.