Among all the new hybrids and fuel cell cars, Nissan unveiling of the all-new Murano 4x4 at the Los Angeles Auto Show yesterday seemed to make little impact. Oddly, however, it’s not just a new look that the Japanese firm has given to its premium SUV. Originally introduced in the UK in 2005, the Murano might not seem as if it’s due a refresh, but nevertheless it’s getting one – and a thorough one too. The second generation car has been designed as a “super evolution” of the original. It gets a new exterior and interior, a load of new technology and what Nissan describes as a “new premium driving feel resulting from an all-new platform and the continued refinement of the V6 engine and advanced CVT.”Underneath the new Murano’s panels there have been big changes. Out has gone the company’s old FF-L mechanicals and in comes its new D-platform as featured under the 2007 Nissan Altima. That means the new Murano benefits from lighter chassis components, increased body stiffness, higher-spec shock absorbers and a new twin-setting power steering system. The new Murano comes equipped with a VQ-series 3.5-litre DOHC V6 petrol engine rated at 265bhp and 248 lb-ft of torque; effectively, it’s the 350Z’s lump detuned. Howver, when the car comes to the European market in late 2008, there will be the option of Renault’s new 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine, which is likely to offer around 200bhp and 320lb ft of torque, as well as much better fuel economy than the petrol option.
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