2003 Nissan Murano Overview

2003 Nissan Murano Overview

Overall User Score

4.5⁄5

Based on 4 reviews

Named after a site where they produce Italian glass sculpture, the brand new 2003 Nissan Murano sought to combine sculptural elements into the body design of its crossover, producing a uniquely-shaped vehicle that has the cargo capacity and solid feel of an SUV, but the handling and styling of a car.  Sharing a platform and engine with the Altima, the 2003 Murano comes in either front-wheel or all-wheel drive in either SE or SL trims.  Both feature a 245-hp, 3.5-liter V6 in combination with a CVT.  The continuously variable transmission makes its Nissan debut in the Murano, offering seamless "gearless" shifting.

The SE has a sportier suspension and xenon headlights, but both models of the 2003 Murano are similarly equipped with power features, a power driver's seat, auto-dimming mirrors, leather trim, wheel-mounted controls, keyless entry, and cruise control.  Dual front-side and side impact bags are standard, as are 4-wheel ABS brakes and Brake Assist.  Stability control is an option.  What adds to the luxury and comfort inside the 2003 Murano is the generous room for up to five passengers.  Though it is about the same length as the Pilot, the Murano only has two rows of seats, which translates into more legroom.  Rear seats split-fold to increase the cargo area to 81.6 cubic feet.  They also uniquely recline for added passenger comfort.  A nice convenient feature is a remote fold-down switch located in the cargo area.

There are lots of options that beef up the features on the 2003 Murano, such as a sunroof, memory settings, roof rails, navigation system, and a cargo cover.  Owner love all the standard features and particularly like the one-of-a-kind crossover styling.  They say the interior is both roomy and comfortable, and love the car-like handling and responsive control.  Acceleration is effortless, but they wish it had more horsepower.  There is some wind and road noise reported in Muranos that have a sunroof, and the stiffer SE suspension can feel harsh over bumps.  The CD player seems to work erratically in this year's model.