2005 Nissan Murano

I have sold Nissan's for 7 years now and I must say the Nissan product have significantly improved under the direction of Carlos Ghosn. While on a dealer trade in late 2005 I drove a 2005 Murano with the Nav & Touring package on a fairly long trip. That's all it took...Put a fork in me...I was done. I had to have one...and so I did...lease a loaded 2005 with all but the rear seat entertainment system. The seat comfort is incredible. The smooth CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) delivers the 240 hp power very effectively. The overall fuel economy I have been able to maintain with about a 50/50 mix of city/highway driving is 20 mpg. The Murano has a lot to offer and should be at the top of anyone's list who is considering the purchase of a "Crossover" SUV that seats 5 comfortably.

The Touring package in my humble opinion sets this rig apart from the rest. This includes: the Xenon HID headlights, 2 driver memory system, intelligent key or "I" key that allows for keyless ignition. Also, with the Navigation system is a full color back-up camera that activates automatically in reverse. The Bose 6CD in-dash Audio System is awesome...every seat if front seat at the concert hall.

As far as the downside go...here they are...The navigation system requires the use of a small joystick type control for spelling out addresses. Which was ok technology in 2005...But the new models now have a voice activated touch screen navigation which is quite a bit more desirable. Also, many of the navigation features are disabled when the car is moving. Nissan recommends 91 octane fuel for maximum performance...which is all I run through mine...That is 20-30 more cents per gallon. The wiper blades on the 2005 and earlier model was too small for the large sloping window...I replaced mine with the 2006 and up blades and am very happy with them now.

All in all it's hard to beat the size, comfort, safety the Murano has to offer...The Touring and Nav are in my opinion must have features. Happy Ebaying!