Most significant changes in the 2018 Nissan Murano: Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, navigation, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity are standard on all trim levels
Price change: Prices are $780 higher for the S trim, $880 higher for SV models, $950 more for SLs and $2,370 greater for the Platinum. The destination charge is unchanged at $975.
On sale: Now
Which should you buy, 2017 or 2018? The well-equipped 2018 Nissan Murano is your best bet. All versions gain significant standard features that offset the price increases.
Nissan is raising prices for its five-seat mid-size crossover, but all 2018 Muranos gain additional standard features that help justify the higher cost.
Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, a navigation system with an 8-inch display, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity are now standard. Last year, forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking were optional only on SL and Platinum trims, and Android Auto wasn’t available.
In addition to the new standard features present in the 2018 Nissan Murano, SV models gain blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert. A motion-activated power liftgate for the rear cargo space is now standard on the SL and Platinum, and the Platinum Murano also gets a dual-pane moonroof.
Price increases for the 2018 Murano since a midyear adjustment on 2017.5 models range from $780 on the base S to $2,370 on the Platinum. A front-wheel-drive 2018 Murano S starts at $31,525 including a $975 destination charge, and an all-wheel-drive Platinum lists for $44,555 with destination.
All Muranos come with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, a continuously variable automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive.
The Murano scores points for distinctive exterior styling that sets it apart from the SUV herd, along with a modern interior and comfortable front seats and rear seats. It faces competition not only from other mid-size crossover SUVs but also less expensive compact models like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Nissan Rogue.
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Rick Popely
Contributor Rick Popely has covered the auto industry for decades and hosts a weekly online radio show on TalkZone.com.