Take the already well-wrought 2012 Nissan Murano LE, add in all-wheel-drive (AWD) utility, and behold the Murano LE AWD. Representing the flagship trim of Nissan’s 5-passenger midsize crossover lineup, the LE AWD boasts 64 cubic feet of cargo area, a roomy and welcoming cabin, and standard V6 power, along with the expected princely appointments.
Such appointments include 20-inch painted alloy wheels, a roof rack and rear spoiler, heated power-adjustable mirrors, a power rear liftgate, power front sunroof and a rear fixed glass sunroof outside, with leather upholstery, as well as leather, alloy and simulated wood accents adorning the interior.
Heated power-adjustable front seats, heated reclining rear seats, power windows and door locks, cruise control, power-adjustable telescoping tilt-wheel steering, a universal remote garage door opener and a rear-view camera are embraced by dual-zone climate control, while enhanced memory for driver's settings and a standard cargo organizer address comfort and convenience needs.
Entertainment, meanwhile, consists of an MP3-capable Bose single-CD player with 11 premium speakers, satellite radio and a USB port, while Bluetooth technology handles hands-free calling.
The more desirable add-ons available to the 2012 Murano LE AWD include rear-seat DVD entertainment, a Class II trailer hitch and wiring, splash guards, illuminated door sills and roof-rail crossbars.
Powering Nissan’s top-shelf LE AWD is a variable-valve-timed (VVT) 3.5-liter V6 engine that combines with a singularly competent continuously variable transmission (CVT) for 260 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. All this is good for 18 mpg city/23 highway and some 3,500 pounds of towing with the proper equipment, while the Intuitive AWD system automatically regulates and adjusts torque split from normal front-wheel drive to front and rear wheels, depending on driving conditions and cornering convolutions.
Finally, standard safety equipment of note aboard the high-end Murano LE AWD includes 4-wheel antilock braking (ABS), traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags, front head restraint whiplash protection and front side-mounted airbags. Further standard safety features include high-intensity-discharge (HID) headlights, front fog/driving lights and a remote antitheft alarm, while LED daytime running lights remain optional.
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are available with average savings of $2,614 below market price
