Best Car Reviews - 2020 Nissan Murano FWD

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Introduction

The 2020 Nissan Murano FWD is a two-row midsize crossover aimed at drivers who value expressive design, a comfortable cabin, and strong V6 power over maximum cargo capacity or off-road ability. Its dramatic styling, premium-leaning interior, and standard front-wheel-drive layout help it stand apart from more conventional family SUVs.

Design and Exterior Features

The Murano has a low, sculpted profile for a crossover, with Nissan’s V-motion grille, boomerang-shaped LED lighting, and a floating-roof effect created by its darkened rear pillars. It measures about 4.90 metres long, giving it substantial road presence without feeling as large as a three-row SUV. The major visual refresh arrived for 2019, so the 2020 model largely carries over that sharper exterior and adds revised package content and an additional exterior colour.

Standard LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, and LED taillights.
Standard active grille shutters and integrated rear spoiler.
18-inch alloy wheels on S and SV models; 20-inch wheels on SL and Platinum models.
Available dual-panel panoramic moonroof, roof rails, fog lights, and motion-activated power liftgate.

Interior and Comfort

The 2020 Nissan Murano cabin is one of its strongest qualities, with a broad dashboard, supportive Zero Gravity front seats, and a relaxed, lounge-like atmosphere. Standard dual-zone climate control and reclining 60/40-split rear seats support everyday comfort. Higher trims add leather upholstery, heated rear seats, driver-memory functions, and Platinum-exclusive semi-aniline leather with quilted inserts. Rear-seat room is generous for adults, although cargo space is less versatile than in some boxier rivals.

Standard 8-inch touchscreen and 7-inch Advanced Drive-Assist Display.
Available 10-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support.
Available heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear outboard seats.
Available Bose 11-speaker audio system with dual subwoofers.

Performance and Handling

Every 2020 Murano FWD uses a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre DOHC V6 producing 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission, rather than a conventional stepped automatic, with D-Step Logic programmed to simulate gear changes. The V6 provides confident passing power and smooth highway cruising, while front-wheel drive keeps the vehicle simple and efficient for warmer climates. Official EPA estimates for the FWD model are 20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined, equivalent to approximately 11.8, 8.4, and 10.2 L/100 km.

3.5-litre V6 with 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque.
Front-wheel drive and Xtronic CVT with D-Step Logic.
Independent front suspension and multi-link rear suspension.
EPA combined fuel consumption of approximately 10.2 L/100 km.

Technology and Connectivity

Technology is straightforward and practical rather than cutting-edge. All trims include NissanConnect with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM capability, and USB connectivity. SL and Platinum models add navigation with connected search and traffic functions, while upper trims can include NissanConnect Services, an Around View Monitor, premium audio, and remote-service functions.

Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Standard Bluetooth, hands-free text messaging, and multiple USB ports.
Available navigation, connected services, and remote engine start.
Available Intelligent Around View Monitor and Bose premium audio.

Safety Features

All 2020 Murano models include automatic emergency braking and Rear Door Alert, alongside a full airbag system, vehicle dynamic control, traction control, hill-start assist, and a tyre-pressure monitoring system. Safety Shield 360 is standard on SV, SL, and Platinum trims, adding automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, high-beam assist, and rear automatic braking. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the applicable 2019-2024 Murano design Good ratings in several frontal, roof-strength, and head-restraint evaluations, while the standard front crash-prevention system earned a Superior rating.

Standard automatic emergency braking and Rear Door Alert.
Safety Shield 360 standard on SV, SL, and Platinum trims.
Available Intelligent Cruise Control, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Intelligent Lane Intervention.
Front, side, curtain, and front knee airbags are standard.

Pricing and Variants

The original US MSRP for the 2020 Nissan Murano S FWD was $31,530, excluding the $1,095 destination charge. FWD trims were S, SV, SL, and Platinum, with original prices rising to $43,730 for the Platinum FWD. Available all-wheel drive increased each trim’s price. The Murano competed with the 2020 Ford Edge, Honda Passport, Hyundai Santa Fe, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Chevrolet Blazer; it offered a more upscale cabin than some rivals, but its cargo utility and fuel economy were less competitive.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Distinctive exterior styling that still looks premium.
Strong and smooth naturally aspirated V6 performance.
Comfortable Zero Gravity front seats and refined ride quality.
Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across the range.
Useful active-safety equipment on SV and higher trims.

Cons

CVT response may not appeal to drivers who prefer a conventional automatic.
Fuel economy trails many turbocharged four-cylinder rivals.
Cargo area is smaller and less square than in several competitors.
Some advanced safety and luxury features require higher trims.
Rearward visibility can be compromised by the dramatic roofline and wide pillars.

Maintenance and Common Issues

RepairPal estimates average annual repair and maintenance costs for a 2020 Nissan Murano at about $507 in the United States, although actual costs vary greatly by mileage, region, service history, and repair needs. Owner-reported concerns should be assessed case by case rather than assumed to affect every vehicle. Recurring report categories include CVT hesitation or shudder concerns, infotainment or camera faults, battery and other electrical issues, liftgate or sunroof operation problems, and reports involving glass breakage or water leaks. A pre-purchase inspection, recall check by VIN, and documented transmission service history are especially sensible for a used example.

Rating

Overall rating: 7.8/10. Design: 9/10. Comfort: 8.5/10. Performance: 7.5/10. Technology: 7.5/10. Safety: 8/10. The Murano earns its score through style, comfort, and V6 refinement, while its ageing platform, CVT character, and modest utility prevent it from leading the class.

User Reviews and Feedback

Owner feedback commonly centres on the Murano’s comfort, styling, and effortless V6 power. Satisfaction tends to be strongest among drivers seeking a quiet daily crossover rather than maximum towing capability, cargo volume, or sporty handling. As with any used vehicle, individual condition and maintenance history matter more than broad ownership impressions.

Owners often appreciate the comfortable front seats and calm highway ride.
The V6 is frequently praised for smooth acceleration and passing ability.
Many buyers like the distinctive styling and premium-looking cabin.
Some drivers dislike the CVT’s sound and nontraditional acceleration feel.
Practicality-focused owners may wish for more cargo space and better fuel economy.

Best Cars in This Category

2020 Honda Passport
2020 Ford Edge
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe
2020 Chevrolet Blazer
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Summary

The 2020 Nissan Murano FWD is best for buyers who want a stylish, comfortable two-row midsize crossover with a smooth V6 and an upscale atmosphere. It is not the most practical or economical option in its segment, but a well-maintained example can be an appealing value for drivers who prioritise design, front-seat comfort, and easy highway performance.