in 2016, the Murano gained Nissan a considerable amount of sales success. With the growing large vehicle market here in the States, it’s easy to see why the SUV covered as much ground as it did. The company has invested a lot of effort into the 2017 model year Murano, introducing a new Midnight trim package and making small tweaks to make sure the trend continues. The manufacturer has now released pricing for next year’s Murano, and at $30,710, it maintains a respectable pricepoint for its value.
Aside from Nissan’s new trim additions, the Murano remains mostly unchanged. Marked as a half-year model by the company, it wasn’t supposed to have any major renovations in the first place. Exterior styling looks nearly identical to the 2016 model albeit with a few trim-specific changes. Apple Car Play will also be available in the 2017.5 Murano though the company has kept quiet about Android Auto. It’d be strange to see one without the other, but it’s possible that it may happen here.
The Midnight trim does add some amenities to the Murano’s exterior and cabin. Here, we see subtle touches like body color mirrors and unique wheel choices to set it apart from its stable mates. The Murano is just one of six other models in Nissan’s lineup that received the Midnight Edition treatment, hoping to carry on the success of the Maxima SR Midnight from last year. Color choices range from Pearl White, Cayenne Red, Gun Metallic to Magnetic Black with a Graphite interior. These high class touches raise the quality of the Murano’s overall appearance and make it an upscale package.
Powertrain options carry over from 2016. A 3.5L V6 is the sole powerplant, remaining the heart for the entire Murano range. Front wheel drive is standard with all wheel drive being optional, giving some added versatility to the SUV’s arsenal.
Nissan’s senior VP of Sales and Marketing for North America, Christian Meunier, said in a release, “With the enhancements for the 2017, we’re adding value to every Murano trim level.”
Here’s to another year of success that will hopefully recreate the 38 percent increase in sales from 2015 to 2016.