Pulse Reviews and Analysis
Best Nissan Murano Model Years (Ranked)
Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO, CRO Syndicate
Best Nissan Murano Model Years (Ranked)
The Nissan Murano pioneered the upscale mid-size crossover when it launched in 2003, pairing a smooth 3.5L V6 with Nissan's continuously variable transmission (CVT) and a curvy, design-forward body. Across four generations it has stayed a two-row, comfort-focused alternative to boxier three-row rivals.
For used buyers the central question is the CVT: early Muranos and certain mid-2010s cars are known for transmission concerns, while later third-generation examples improved durability significantly. The 2025 fourth-generation redesign finally dropped the V6 and CVT for a turbocharged engine and a conventional automatic.
This ranking covers the best Murano model years, their engines, the transmission years to verify, recall history, and where the smart value sits on today's used market.
Direct Answer
The best overall Nissan Murano is the 2019-2024 third-generation (Z52) facelift, which keeps the proven 3.5L VQ35DE V6 but benefits from a strengthened CVT, standard Safety Shield 360 driver aids, and a quiet, genuinely upscale cabin. For shoppers focused on price, the best value is the 2009-2010 second-generation (Z51) Murano, which delivers the same silky V6 and a plush ride at a rock-bottom used price, provided the CVT has documented service.
Avoid the 2015-2016 early third-generation cars unless the CVT was inspected or replaced, and treat any first-generation 2003-2007 example with an unknown transmission history as a gamble.
1. 2019-2024 Third Generation (Z52, Facelift) 🏆 BEST OVERALL
The facelifted third-generation Murano is the nameplate at its most refined. It carries the durable 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (260 hp) through an improved Xtronic CVT that addressed many of the cooling and reliability complaints of earlier cars. The 2019 update added standard Safety Shield 360, bringing automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert across the lineup.
The cabin remains a highlight: quilted leather, zero-gravity front seats, and a hushed ride make it feel a class above its price. Build quality is solid and the V6 is one of Nissan's most proven engines. A clean 2019-2024 SL or Platinum is the Murano to buy if your budget reaches a recent example.
2. 2009-2010 Second Generation (Z51) 💎 BEST VALUE
The second-generation Murano is the value champion. It uses the same smooth 3.5L V6 (265 hp) and an Xtronic CVT, riding on a stiffer platform with a more luxurious interior than the original. By 2009-2010 early production bugs had been worked out, and these cars deliver a plush, quiet ride for very little money today.
The best value is a 2009-2010 SL or LE, which bundles leather, a power liftgate, and a strong V6 at a used price well below comparable crossovers. The CVT is the one item to verify, so prioritize examples with documented transmission fluid changes. Maintained properly, these Muranos are a comfortable, affordable family cruiser.
3. 2017-2018 Third Generation (Z52)
By the 2017-2018 model years the third-generation Murano had settled into a dependable groove. The 3.5L VQ35DE V6 and revised CVT delivered smooth, quiet performance, and Nissan expanded the availability of driver-assistance features including forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control on upper trims.
These cars share the upscale interior of the facelift models, with comfortable seating and a roomy cargo area, at a slightly lower used price than the 2019-plus cars. Reliability is notably better than the 2015-2016 launch years as the CVT improvements took hold. A well-kept 2017-2018 SL or Platinum is a smart pick for buyers who want most of the modern Murano experience for less money.
4. 2023-2024 Third Generation (Z52, Final Years)
The final two model years of the third generation are the most current used Muranos with the proven V6-and-CVT combination. They carry the latest version of the 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, standard Safety Shield 360, and the longest remaining factory warranty among the V6 cars.
As the newest pre-redesign examples, they command the highest prices in the third-generation range but offer the lowest mileage and the most up-to-date infotainment. Buy a 2023 or 2024 SV, SL, or Platinum if you want the dependable VQ V6 with near-current technology and don't need the turbo powertrain of the 2025 redesign.
These are a low-risk choice for long-term ownership.
5. 2025 Fourth Generation (Redesign)
The 2025 redesign is the biggest change in the Murano's history. Nissan dropped the V6 and the CVT entirely, replacing them with a turbocharged 2.0L VC-Turbo variable-compression four-cylinder (241 hp) paired with a conventional nine-speed automatic transmission. The interior is thoroughly modernized with dual 12.3-inch screens and updated materials.
The move to a geared automatic should ease the long-running CVT durability worries, though as the newest model it has the shortest track record. It is also the most expensive used Murano. Buy this one if you want current technology, the smoother power delivery of the turbo, and freedom from CVT concerns, and you are comfortable paying near-new pricing for an unproven powertrain.
6. 2015-2016 Third Generation (Z52, Launch) — Caution
The all-new 2015 Murano introduced the bold "V-motion" styling, the comfortable zero-gravity seats, and the 3.5L V6, but the early Xtronic CVT in these launch years drew complaints about shudder, overheating, and premature failure. It is the third-generation year to approach with the most caution.
The cars themselves are attractive and comfortable, and many examples have run trouble-free, but the CVT risk is real. Only buy a 2015-2016 Murano with documented transmission service, an updated valve body or cooler, or a replaced unit verifiable through records. Otherwise, stepping up to a 2017-plus car of the same generation is well worth the extra cost for peace of mind.
7. 2011-2014 Second Generation (Z51, Refreshed)
The refreshed second-generation Murano brought updated styling, more standard equipment, and continued use of the dependable 3.5L V6 with the Xtronic CVT. These are comfortable, quiet cruisers with a plush ride and a well-finished interior for their era.
As aging vehicles they need careful inspection: check the CVT for smooth, shudder-free operation, look for suspension wear, and confirm the electronics and power features all work. Salt-belt cars can show corrosion. The upside is very affordable pricing for a refined V6 crossover.
A well-maintained 2011-2014 SL with transmission service history makes a serviceable budget family hauler for value-focused buyers.
8. 2011-2014 Murano CrossCabriolet
The Murano CrossCabriolet is the oddity of the lineup, a two-door convertible crossover built on the second-generation platform with the same 3.5L V6 and CVT. It was a low-volume, polarizing experiment that never sold well, which makes survivors a curiosity rather than a practical pick.
It offers open-air motoring with all-wheel drive, but compromised cargo space, heavy weight, and the same CVT concerns as other second-generation cars. Parts and soft-top maintenance can be pricier than the standard Murano. Buy one only as a conversation-piece collectible or if you specifically want a convertible crossover, and budget for the CVT and roof system upkeep that come with its age and rarity.
9. 2006-2007 First Generation (Z50, Refreshed)
The refreshed first-generation Murano brought minor styling and equipment updates while keeping the original's strong 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (around 245 hp) and first-generation CVT. These were the best-sorted versions of the pioneering Murano, with a comfortable ride and a then-modern interior.
The catch is the early CVT, which is the least proven of all Murano transmissions and can be expensive to replace. These are now old, high-mileage cars, so inspect thoroughly for transmission shudder, suspension wear, and rust. Treat a 2006-2007 Murano as inexpensive transportation only, and walk away from any example without clear evidence of CVT health and consistent maintenance.
10. 2003-2005 First Generation (Z50, Launch)
The original Murano launched the crossover formula with striking styling, the 3.5L V6, and Nissan's first mainstream CVT. It was genuinely innovative and still rides comfortably, but it sits at the bottom of this ranking for good reason.
These are the oldest and highest-risk Muranos. The launch-era CVT is the most failure-prone, replacement costs can exceed the car's value, and two decades of age bring corrosion, worn suspension, and aging electronics. There is little reason to seek one out except at a very low price or as a project.
For most buyers a newer V6 example is a far smarter use of money than gambling on a first-year transmission.
What to Watch For When Buying
The single most important step when buying a used Murano is to verify the CVT (Xtronic continuously variable transmission), which is the model's known weak point across multiple generations.
- Test for CVT shudder, hesitation, or whine during acceleration and at steady cruise; any judder is a red flag.
- Demand transmission fluid service records — the CVT needs regular fluid changes that many owners skip.
- Be most cautious with 2003-2007 first-gen and 2015-2016 early third-gen cars, which have the highest CVT failure rates.
- Run the VIN through NHTSA and Nissan recall lookups to confirm any open recalls or extended-warranty work was completed.
- Inspect for rust on salt-belt cars, especially older second-generation examples.
- Confirm all driver-assistance features (Safety Shield 360, cameras, sensors) function on 2019-plus cars.
A car with full maintenance documentation outweighs a low sticker price every time with this model.
How to Choose
Match the Murano to your priorities. For the best blend of refinement, safety tech, and a proven engine, the 2019-2024 third-generation facelift is the answer, combining the durable VQ V6 with the improved CVT and standard Safety Shield 360. For the best value, a 2009-2010 second-generation car offers the same silky V6 and a plush ride for very little money, as long as the CVT is documented.
Buyers who want freedom from the CVT entirely should look at the 2025 redesign with its turbo engine and geared automatic, accepting near-new pricing and a short track record. Bargain hunters can consider older second-generation cars, but should always favor examples with transmission service history.
In every case, the CVT is the deciding factor.
FAQ
Which Nissan Murano years should I avoid? Be most cautious with the 2003-2007 first generation and the 2015-2016 early third generation, both of which have the highest rates of CVT failure. If you want those years, only buy an example with documented transmission service or a replaced unit verified through records.
Is the Nissan Murano's CVT reliable? It is the model's known weak point. Early first-generation and 2015-2016 CVTs are the most failure-prone, while 2017-2024 third-generation units are noticeably more durable. Regular fluid changes are essential, and the 2025 redesign replaced the CVT with a conventional nine-speed automatic.
What engine does the Nissan Murano use? For 2003 through 2024 the Murano used Nissan's 3.5L VQ35DE V6 (roughly 245-265 hp depending on year). The 2025 redesign switched to a turbocharged 2.0L VC-Turbo four-cylinder producing 241 hp.
Which Murano is best for families on a budget? A 2009-2010 second-generation Murano offers a smooth V6, a comfortable and quiet cabin, and a used price well below newer rivals, making it the smart budget family pick — provided the CVT has documented service history.
Bottom Line
The Nissan Murano is a comfortable, design-forward crossover whose CVT history makes model-year choice critical. The 2019-2024 third-generation facelift is the best overall pick, pairing the proven VQ V6 with an improved CVT and standard Safety Shield 360, while the 2009-2010 second generation offers the best value.
Avoid the 2015-2016 launch cars and first-generation models unless transmission service is documented. Buy carefully, prioritize CVT records over a low price, and the Murano delivers quiet, plush, V6-powered comfort for the money.
Sources
- Nissan USA official Murano model history and specifications, nissanusa.com
- NHTSA recall and complaint database for Nissan Murano by model year, nhtsa.gov
- EPA Fuel Economy ratings for Nissan Murano, fueleconomy.gov
- Edmunds Nissan Murano generation reviews and used-car appraisals, edmunds.com
- Kelley Blue Book Nissan Murano used values by model year, kbb.com
- Car and Driver Nissan Murano reviews and 2025 redesign coverage, caranddriver.com
- Wikipedia Nissan Murano generations and technical specifications, en.wikipedia.org