LA Show: 2009 Nissan Murano Fully Revealed

PRESS RELEASE

All-New 2009 Nissan Murano Crossover Offers New Design, Advanced Technology and “Business Class” Features

The original Nissan Murano, launched in 2003 as a 2004 model, set new standards for style and sportiness in the expanding mid-size crossover sport-utility vehicle marketplace, becoming, in essence, a “class of one.” The all-new, second generation 2009 Murano elevates that unique position through a “super evolution” of the original design – with a new exterior, interior and enhanced technology. Murano’s new premium driving feel results from a combination of a new advanced platform, continued refinement of Murano’s standard V6 engine and new, second-generation Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission).

“The 2009 Murano is an upgrade, not just compared to the previous generation vehicle, but the entire crossover SUV segment,” said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. “With its unique combination of modern design, dynamic performance, new ‘business class’ interior and overall refinement, Murano continues to stand out as the most distinctive, refined vehicle in class.”

The 2009 Murano’s new exterior features a wide front end with a dynamic front fascia design, a wide grille with large integrated headlights, strong body side character lines with pronounced 18-inch or 20-inch wheels and tires and a distinctive rear end set off by an expansive rear glass area and LED taillights.

Murano’s newly designed interior plays on the “mobile suite” theme, complete with new instrument panel and center stack design, new seat design with available double-stitched leather-appointed seating surfaces, use of premium materials such as leather and aluminum, a variety of storage compartments and ambient lighting.

The 2009 Murano is powered by a revised 265-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6 backed by a new advanced Xtronic CVTâ„¢ (Continuously Variable Transmission), with a front-wheel drive or an advanced all-wheel drive drivetrain. Murano also features a new D-platform, as well as new suspension, body structure and state-of-the-art steering for improved ride comfort and precise handling.

Multiple technology features are available on the 2009 Murano, including standard Push Button Ignition and available Intelligent Key, RearView Monitor, integrated iPod® connectivity, DVD Mobile Entertainment System with 9-inch screen, 11-speaker Bose® audio system and an enhanced touch screen Nissan Navigation system with voice activation XM® NavTraffic real-time traffic information (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive.

“All of these features combine to create a crossover that is a standout in its class,” said Bosley. “One of the strengths of the new 2009 Murano is that you get the total package – design, performance, safety and technology in one refined, quality vehicle.”

New, Dramatic Styling

One of the most striking aspects of the 2009 Murano is its new body, which imparts a “modern art” feel, but still maintains the “Murano-ness” that consumers have enjoyed since the first generation’s debut. “When someone looks at the 2009 Murano, they’ll instantly know what it is by its distinctive Murano style,” said Bosley. “The new Murano’s design takes its cue from the original vehicle and adds a more rewarding sense of style and individuality. Others have tried to imitate it, but there is only one true Murano.”

Murano’s new front end features a distinctive grille treatment with wide front headlights – with available quad-cylinder style High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional projector headlights adding an even more imposing view. A new hood sweeps into the sculpted, dynamic bodylines, with pronounced wheel arches and 18-inch or 20-inch wheels providing an aggressive stance.

Integrated fog lights are available on Murano SL and LE models. Large chrome door handles and available roof rails with adjustable crossbars (accessory) add both functionality and visual accents.

The Murano’s redesigned rear end features a unique rear glass shape, rear air deflector and large rear LED taillights that accent the body side character line. Dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers provide an appropriate “final” look to the 2009 Murano.

New available exterior features for 2009 include rain-sensing windshield wipers, a power liftgate, enhanced RearView Monitor with rear view camera and a large, dual panel power sliding glass moonroof and 2 nd row skylight – a new feature that provides an open-air experience for Murano passengers without compromising head room.

Eight exterior colors are offered on the 2009 Murano, including three all new colors – Deep Sapphire, Tinted Bronze and Saharan Stone.

A New “ Mobile Suite” Interior

Inside, the new Murano lives up to its “mobile suite” design theme, with an interior exemplifying warmth and modern style. From the sweep of the new instrument panel, to the new telescoping steering wheel design, to the wide console and ambient lighting, Murano owners feel a sense of warmth and security from the first time they open the doors.

Murano’s new front seats have been designed for enhanced support, offering a rich, supple feel and excellent riding comfort. The 60/40 fold-flat rear seat is now available with a convenient power return feature – the seat returns to the upright position with the touch of a button. Heated seats are available in the front and rear. Also available are new double-stitched leather-appointed seating surfaces for an inviting, luxurious feeling, an 8-way power driver’s and 4-way power front passenger’s seats and a driver’s memory system (seats, steering wheel and mirrors). Interior colors include Cafe Latte and Charcoal.

A variety of cargo storage areas are provided throughout Murano’s interior, including standard dual-level center console; pockets for mobile phones, coins, maps and more; numerous cupholders; an extra large glove compartment; and dual seatback pockets, as well as a large rear cargo area.

Another new, innovative Murano feature is an available foldaway cargo organizer. When needed, the organizer pops up with a push of a button from its hidden space below the rear cargo floor and a portion of the cargo floor snaps into a vertical position, revealing a flat recessed space with removable, vertical cargo partitions. The system helps prevent items such as sports equipment and grocery bags from rolling loose around the cargo area while driving. The area is also ideal for wet or dirty items due to its easy-clean box floor.

Other standard interior features include push button ignition; auto door lock feature, dual zone climate controls; Fine Vision gauges; and an AM/FM/CD6/six-speaker audio system with AUX-in jack, VTR jack and MP3/WMA capability.

More Power and a New Platform

All 2009 Muranos feature Nissan’s award-winning VQ series engine – a revised 3.5-liter DOHC V6 with 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. The engine incorporates a Twin Nissan Variable Induction Control System (NICS), microfinished camshaft and crankshaft surfaces, DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) coated valve lifters, resin intake manifold, forged crankshaft, digital knock control system, high capacity muffler and lightweight aluminum block and cylinder heads.

Engine power is transferred to a new, advanced Xtronic CVTâ„¢ (Continuously Variable Transmission) with Adaptive Shift Control (ACS) that provides a sporty driving experience and the smoothness that only a CVT offers.

All 2009 Muranos are available in front-wheel drive or with an advanced all-wheel drive system that adjusts to road conditions in a tenth of a second. The intuitive all-wheel drive system connects the Murano VDC system’s yaw sensors, wheel slip sensors and steering angle sensors with the AWD system. The system provides increased traction in all weather conditions by distributing engine torque depending on the driver’s intended direction and the actual direction of the vehicle.

Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with a Traction Control System (TCS) for all-weather confidence in front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations is standard on all Murano models.

The 2009 Murano features Nissan’s new, advanced “D” platform that provides a solid foundation for crossover duties. This platform, which is similar to that used in the 2008 Altima, has been optimized for Murano. The new platform gives the Murano one-and-a-half times more torsional rigidity than the first generation Murano, helping improve noise isolation and reduce vibration – benefiting the ride comfort of all passengers.

Murano offers a standard four-wheel independent suspension with extensive use of lightweight aluminum for a reduction in sprung weight. The new suspension design, with its cradle-type front subframe and multi-link rear design with improved geometry and large front and rear stabilizer bars, provides increased stiffness. The suspension, in combination with high performance dual flow path shock absorbers, helps provide sure footing in all surfaces and increased ride comfort on rough surfaces.

A new twin-orifice speed-sensitive power steering system, similar to the one used in Altima and 350Z, provides the proper levels of assistance in around-town and high-speed driving. The Murano’s system provides a direct steering feel, inspiring driver confidence.

Braking is provided by large 4-wheel vented disc brakes (12.6-inch front, 12.1-inch rear) with 4-wheel, 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

The 2009 Murano also features new wheel and tire packages – 18x7.5-inch 6-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with P235/65R18 tires (S, SL) and 20x7.5-inch 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with P235/55R20 tires (LE).

Advanced Technology and Safety Features

A variety of advanced technology features are available, including an Intelligent Key, a Bose® premium 11-speaker audio system with an in-dash 6CD changer, Radio Data System (RDS), and speed-sensitive volume control (up from an 8-speaker system); XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately); new Nissan Navigation System with user-friendly graphic interface, menu structure and intelligent search capabilities, a 9.3GB Music Box hard drive and XM® Nav Traffic (XM® subscription required, sold separately); Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System; and a new Nissan DVD Mobile Entertainment system with a 9-inch roof-mounted screen (up from 6.4 inches).

Also available is an iPod® connector that integrates into the Murano’s standard audio system controls (LE only); steering wheel controls for cruise control and audio system; RearView Monitor; and Voice Recognition for audio, HVAC, Bluetooth® and navigation system.

Murano again offers a full complement of standard safety features, with six standard air bags, including a Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor, roof-mounted curtain supplemental side-impact air bags for front-and rear-seat occupant head protection, along with a standard Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) and driver/passenger seat belt warning lamps. Also standard are front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchors and tether system, front seats with active head restraints and Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones to help dissipate crash energy away from the passenger compartment.

Five Well-Equipped Models

The 2009 Nissan Murano is available in five models – S 2WD, S AWD, SL 2WD, SL AWD and LE AWD. All Murano AWD models (S, SL, LE) include an advanced all-wheel drive system with yaw moment control.

Murano S 2WD models include the 3.5-liter 265-horsepower V6; Xtronic CVT; 18-inch alloy wheels; halogen headlights and LED taillights; 6-way manual driver’s and 4-way manual passenger’s seats; manual tilt/telescoping steering wheel; power windows and door locks with remote keyless entry system; a 6-speaker audio system and more.

Murano SL models (2WD and AWD) add rear privacy glass; integrated front fog lights; steering wheel-mounted audio controls; a leather-wrapped steering wheel; 8-way power driver’s seat with manual lumbar support; and 60/40 fold-flat rear seat back with power return.

The Murano LE model, only available with all-wheel drive, adds 20-inch wheels with a special titanium-colored finish; roof rails with silver accents; rain-sensing front wipers; auto on/off HID bi-functional projector headlights; 11-speaker Bose® premium audio system; XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately); iPod® connector; 7-inch color Vehicle Information Display; Intelligent Key with push button ignition; Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System; double-stitched leather-appointed front and rear heated seats with driver’s memory system; driver’s seat with power lumbar support and 4-way power passenger’s seat; power tilt/telescoping heated steering wheel; auto-dimming rear view mirror with compass and HomeLink® Universal Transceiver; power liftgate; RearView monitor; wood grain trim, foldable cargo organizer and anti-theft alarm.

A number of option packages are available on 2009 Murano. The Convenience Package (S models) includes privacy glass, roof rails, a tonneau cover and anti-theft alarm. The Premium Package (SL models) includes a Bose® premium audio system, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), RearView Monitor, auto-dimming rear view mirror with compass and HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, roof rails, foldable Cargo Organizer, tonneau cover, anti-theft alarm and 7-inch color Vehicle Information Display.

The Leather Package (SL models) includes leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated front seats with driver power lumbar support and 4-way power passenger’s seat. The Technology Package (SL models) includes a power liftgate, Intelligent Key with push button ignition, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, auto on/off HID bi-functional projector headlights, rain-sensing front wipers and heated outside mirrors.

Also available is a Moonroof Package, with large, dual panel power sliding glass moonroof and 2 nd row skylight (SL and LE models); Navigation Package with 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and XM® Nav Traffic (XM® subscription required, sold separately) (SL and LE models); and the Nissan DVD Mobile Entertainment system with a 9-inch roof-mounted screen (SL and LE models).

The new 2009 Nissan Murano is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in early January 2008.