The Ultimate 2025 Nissan Murano US Test Drive Guide

The midsize SUV segment just got a massive injection of style and sophistication.

If you have been waiting for a vehicle that bridges the gap between everyday practicality and genuine luxury, the all-new 2025 Nissan Murano is here to claim that territory.

As seen in our latest test drive and walkaround, the fourth-generation Murano has been completely reimagined. It sheds its old skin for a sharper, more modern aesthetic and swaps its traditional powertrain for something smarter and punchier. This guide explores every detail revealed in our test drive, from the “Crystal Cube” headlights to the massaging seats, helping you decide if this is the right premium crossover for your garage.

A Bold New Exterior Design

The first thing that strikes you about the 2025 Murano is its presence. As noted in the walkaround, Nissan has committed to a “clean and solid” design philosophy that feels significantly more upscale than its predecessor.

  • Crystal Cube LED Headlights: The front fascia is dominated by ultra-thin LED headlights that Nissan calls “Crystal Cube” lamps. These aren’t just functional; they are jewelry-like elements that flank a gloss-black trim strip, giving the car a wide, planted stance.
  • 21-Inch Alloy Wheels: The Platinum trim we tested rolls on massive 21-inch machine-finished aluminum-alloy wheels. These wheels fill the arches perfectly, contributing to the vehicle’s dynamic profile and providing a stable ride on US highways.
  • Seamless Rear Styling: Nissan designers cleaned up the rear profile significantly. The rear wiper is now hidden tucked above the rear window, and the exhaust tips are concealed, leaving the bumper uncluttered. A dramatic full-width LED taillight bar stretches across the tailgate, creating a signature night-time look that is instantly recognizable.

Performance: The VC-Turbo Era

One of the biggest headlines from our test drive is what’s under the hood. The long-standing V6 engine and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) have been retired.

The 2.0-Liter VC-Turbo Engine

Replacing the old V6 is Nissan’s advanced 2.0-liter Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) 4-cylinder engine.

  • Power Output: It delivers a robust 241 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque.
  • Torque Advantage: While horsepower is slightly lower than the outgoing V6, the torque has increased by 20 lb-ft, providing punchier acceleration where you need it most—merging onto freeways or passing slower traffic.

New 9-Speed Automatic Transmission

Perhaps the most welcome change for driving enthusiasts is the switch to a conventional 9-speed automatic transmission. This gearbox offers crisp, decisive shifts that give the Murano a more traditional and engaging driving feel compared to the “rubber band” sensation of the old CVT.

Fuel Efficiency and Drivetrain

During our highway loop, the powertrain demonstrated impressive efficiency, rated for up to 27 MPG on the highway. The available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system provides confidence in adverse weather, seamlessly transferring power to the wheels with the best grip.

Interior: A Sanctuary of Tech and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2025 Murano reveals a cabin designed to compete with luxury brands. The “sanctuary” concept mentioned in the video is evident in the choice of materials and the layout of the technology.

Dual 12.3-Inch Displays

The dashboard is anchored by two high-definition 12.3-inch screens arranged in a continuous, curved glass housing.

  • Driver Display: The screen in front of the driver offers customizable gauges and vital driving data.
  • Infotainment: The central touchscreen handles media and navigation with crisp graphics and rapid response times.

Google Built-In & Connectivity

Connectivity is seamless. The system features Google built-in, meaning you have native access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Play Store without needing to connect your phone. However, for those who prefer their own ecosystem, wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard, eliminating cabin clutter from cords.

Seating and Ambiance

Nissan’s “Zero Gravity” seats have long been an industry benchmark for comfort, but the 2025 Murano takes it further.

  • Massaging Front Seats: Both the driver and front passenger can enjoy massaging functions—a feature rarely found standard in this class.
  • Climate Control: The seats are both heated and ventilated, ensuring comfort in any US climate, from the freezing Northeast to the scorching Southwest.
  • Semi-Aniline Leather: The Platinum trim features quilted semi-aniline leather appointments that feel incredibly soft and premium to the touch.
  • Ambient Lighting: At night, the cabin comes alive with 64-color ambient lighting, allowing you to tailor the interior atmosphere to your mood.

Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance

The test drive highlighted several cutting-edge driver assistance technologies that reduce stress and improve safety.

ProPILOT Assist 1.1

The updated ProPILOT Assist 1.1 system makes highway driving effortless. It combines adaptive cruise control with steering assist to keep you centered in your lane. Notably, the system now uses navigation data to proactively slow the vehicle down for sharp highway curves, ensuring a smoother ride for passengers.

Visibility Technology

Visibility is a key safety factor, and the Murano introduces two standout camera features:

  1. Invisible Hood View: This ingenious feature uses exterior cameras to project a view of what is directly underneath the front of the car onto the central screen. It effectively makes the hood “transparent,” which is incredibly useful for avoiding curbs when parking or navigating tight drive-throughs.
  2. 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor: This provides a virtual 360-degree composite bird’s-eye view of the vehicle, making parallel parking and maneuvering in tight spaces completely stress-free.

Driving Impressions: The Verdict

On the road, the 2025 Murano feels composed and quiet. The switch to the 9-speed automatic transmission has transformed the driving character, making it feel more responsive and premium. The VC-Turbo engine provides ample power without the noise associated with smaller engines, thanks to active noise cancellation and superior insulation.

Whether you are commuting to the office or taking a cross-country road trip, the Murano prioritizes passenger comfort above all else. The suspension soaks up bumps effectively, even on the large 21-inch wheels, and the steering is light yet precise.

Conclusion

The all-new 2025 Nissan Murano is a compelling upgrade that successfully moves the nameplate upmarket. By combining a striking new look (“Crystal Cube” lights, full-width taillights) with a vastly improved powertrain (VC-Turbo, 9-speed auto) and a tech-heavy interior (Google built-in, massaging seats), it offers a luxury experience at a mainstream price point.

If you are looking for a midsize SUV that doesn’t compromise on style or comfort, the 2025 Murano deserves a spot on your test-drive list.