Some vehicles make a strong impression the moment you step inside. The 2026 Nissan Murano is one of them. It brings together a sense of composure, power, and craftsmanship that transforms daily driving into something genuinely satisfying. The design feels timeless, the ride remains serene, and the technology quietly adapts to the needs of modern life. For drivers who appreciate understated sophistication and substance in equal measure, the latest Murano delivers both with confidence.

At first glance, the 2026 Murano presents a bolder, more sculpted exterior that enhances its road presence without compromising aerodynamics. The signature V-motion grille has been reshaped with a wider chrome surround that integrates smoothly into slimmer LED headlamps. New aerodynamic accents along the lower fascia improve airflow and reduce drag, while a slightly recontoured roofline enhances efficiency and stability at highway speeds. Around back, the taillamps now feature a seamless LED light bar that emphasizes width and balance. The proportions remain athletic yet elegant, riding on available 20-inch machine-finished alloy wheels that complement the SUV’s refined stance.

Powering the 2026 Murano is Nissan’s proven 3.5-litre DOHC V6 engine, now further optimized for both smoothness and efficiency. It produces approximately 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, delivered through the latest generation of Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission. This pairing has been fine-tuned to provide the best of both worlds: responsive acceleration and a quiet, composed cruising experience. The transmission simulates stepped gear shifts under strong throttle to provide a more natural driving feel, while the wide gear ratio range keeps engine revs low at steady speeds. Combined with variable valve timing and lightweight internal components, the Murano’s V6 delivers confident passing power without excessive fuel consumption.

Intelligent All-Wheel Drive remains a highlight. It’s an on-demand system that continuously monitors throttle input, wheel slip, and steering angle, sending up to 50 percent of available torque to the rear wheels when extra traction is needed. In normal driving, it operates primarily in front-wheel-drive mode to conserve fuel, then reacts within milliseconds to changing road surfaces. The system also integrates with the vehicle’s chassis control functions, such as Active Ride Control, which subtly applies brake pressure on rough pavement to smooth out body motion. The result is a composed, confident SUV that feels steady on wet roads, gravel, or uneven surfaces.

Ride quality has been one of the Murano’s calling cards since its inception, and the 2026 model carries that tradition forward. The suspension has been recalibrated with revised damper valving and bushings to isolate road imperfections while maintaining steering precision. The vehicle’s rigid structure, built from high-tensile steel and strategically placed reinforcements, provides an excellent foundation for both handling and quietness. On the highway, the Murano glides with a level of refinement that rivals luxury-brand competitors. Cabin insulation has been improved through acoustic glass, additional floor pan damping, and tighter panel tolerances to reduce wind and vibration noise.

Inside, the Murano’s cabin feels like a carefully designed retreat. Nissan’s Zero Gravity seats, inspired by space ergonomics, continue to offer exceptional long-distance comfort. Both front seats feature standard heating, with ventilation available on higher trims. The rear seats are equally generous, providing ample legroom and adjustable recline. Premium materials, including soft-touch surfaces and optional quilted leather upholstery, lend the interior a warm, modern aesthetic. The floating centre console has been simplified, now hosting a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen display with crisp graphics and faster processing. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with built-in navigation that uses real-time traffic and route updates.

The driver’s instrument cluster now features a fully digital 12.3-inch display capable of showing turn-by-turn navigation, audio information, or advanced drive-assist visuals. The layout is clean and intuitive, reflecting Nissan’s goal of reducing distraction and promoting focus. Wireless charging, USB-C connectivity, and a premium Bose audio system with 11 speakers are available, creating an immersive environment for longer drives. Ambient cabin lighting adds a subtle touch of luxury at night, illuminating door panels and footwells with soft, configurable hues.

Safety and driver-assistance technology continue to evolve, anchored by the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite. Standard features include Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and High Beam Assist. Higher trims add ProPILOT Assist, Nissan’s semi-autonomous driving system that combines adaptive cruise control and lane-centering for reduced fatigue on long highway trips. Additional features such as Traffic Sign Recognition, Intelligent Around View Monitor, and Rear Automatic Braking contribute to a sense of effortless confidence in all conditions.

The Murano’s braking system has also been upgraded with larger discs and improved caliper materials for more consistent performance under repeated stops. Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist work seamlessly with the stability control system to maintain control during sudden manoeuvres. The steering remains light at low speeds for easy parking yet firms up naturally as speed increases, maintaining precision and feedback without requiring constant correction.

Efficiency is another area where incremental improvements add up. Aerodynamic refinements, reduced drivetrain friction, and smart alternator control all contribute to a combined fuel consumption rating that remains competitive for a mid-size SUV. The intelligent all-wheel-drive system’s ability to decouple the rear axle during steady cruising further improves highway economy, while still engaging instantly when extra grip is required.

Every aspect of the 2026 Murano seems aimed at making life simpler, more comfortable, and more enjoyable for its occupants. It doesn’t shout for attention, but rather rewards those who value refinement and quality. The blend of responsive power, quiet composure, and effortless technology gives it the versatility to handle everything from daily commutes to long-distance getaways with grace.

For drivers seeking an SUV that feels as sophisticated as it looks, the 2026 Nissan Murano offers an inviting balance of luxury, practicality, and dependability. It’s a vehicle that proves modern comfort and timeless design can coexist beautifully on the same road.

Click the button below to learn more about the 2026 Murano and experience how Nissan continues to refine performance and comfort for today’s drivers.

Please Note: The details of this article were accurate at the time it was written. Manufacturers may change the details of any vehicle’s specifications at any time without notice.