2003 Nissan Murano Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Named after a site that produces Italian glass sculpture, the brand new 2003 Nissan Murano sought to combine sculptural elements into the...
Named after a site that produces 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 and in SE or SL trim. Both feature a 245-hp, 3.5-liter V6 in combination with a continuously variable transmission. The CVT 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 5 passengers. Although it is about the same length as the Pilot, the Murano has only 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 can beef up the features on the 2003 Murano, such as a sunroof, memory settings, roof rails, a navigation system, and a cargo cover. Owners love all the standard features and particularly like its one-of-a-kind crossover styling. They say the interior is both roomy and comfortable and love its 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. Some report the CD player seems to work erratically in this year's model.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2003 Nissan Murano express high satisfaction, highlighting its comfort, powerful V6 engine, and impressive sound system as major positives. Many appreciated the vehicle's family-friendly features and smooth handling that provide a sporty feel. However, some owners noted concerns about long-term durability, particularly with the under-coating and certain components like the transfer case."
My Mom has a Top of the line Nissan Murano. This thing is loaded. Heated mirrors and leather seats, bose sound, air filter, power everything, large sun/moon roof, 6 disc in dash CD player, and my favorite...the memory seating. The thing that really won we over was the way this car handles. You have the room and comfort that and SUV has, but you get the power and feel of a sports car when your driving it. The Murano goes with a tap on the gas. This is backed by its standard 3.5L V6 engine that puts out a impressive 275 horepower. That is more than the lexus Rx330 and its cousin the highlander, and the Honda pilot. With that comes an estimated 24 miles per gallon on the highway. When the weather usn't so hot, the AWD system and all season tires can get you through some of the worst conditions. When your not worried about the weather, the Murano has a quick response and amazing pick-up. Its turns smooth as it hugs the road. Personally I think this is the best car for the money. It will be completely redesigned for 2009 and should be avalable for purchase or order today.
January 8, 2008Very good family compact Suv. Good sound system with Sub woffers (Bose System). Love that everything is powered. Great Features, Leather seating, large 18" wheels and the all wheel drive really help. Also a very comfortable car with heated seats, automatic climate control, power adjustable pedals and a sunroof. Excellent space in the back too.
January 26, 2013I've always considered this car my "undercover" sports car. The CVT transmission is cool and in conjunction with the V6 engine...you can move when you need to. It has been a great family vehicle and fun drive. Nissan makes a good product. Very little repairs in the first 10 years.
August 25, 2013What owners say
My Mom has a Top of the line Nissan Murano. This thing is loaded. Heated mirrors and leather seats, bose sound, air filter, power everything, large sun/moon roof, 6 disc in dash CD player, and my favorite...the memory seating. The thing that really won we over was the way this car handles. You have the room and comfort that and SUV has, but you get the power and feel of a sports car when your driving it. The Murano goes with a tap on the gas. This is backed by its standard 3.5L V6 engine that puts out a impressive 275 horepower. That is more than the lexus Rx330 and its cousin the highlander, and the Honda pilot. With that comes an estimated 24 miles per gallon on the highway. When the weather usn't so hot, the AWD system and all season tires can get you through some of the worst conditions. When your not worried about the weather, the Murano has a quick response and amazing pick-up. Its turns smooth as it hugs the road. Personally I think this is the best car for the money. It will be completely redesigned for 2009 and should be avalable for purchase or order today.
January 8, 2008Very good family compact Suv. Good sound system with Sub woffers (Bose System). Love that everything is powered. Great Features, Leather seating, large 18" wheels and the all wheel drive really help. Also a very comfortable car with heated seats, automatic climate control, power adjustable pedals and a sunroof. Excellent space in the back too.
January 26, 2013I've always considered this car my "undercover" sports car. The CVT transmission is cool and in conjunction with the V6 engine...you can move when you need to. It has been a great family vehicle and fun drive. Nissan makes a good product. Very little repairs in the first 10 years.
August 25, 2013Transfer case is crap, rest of the car is great
January 23, 2008Very good family compact Suv. Off the chain sound system with Sub woffers. Love that everything is powered. Great Features, Leather seating, Seat warmers Nagation system. Alarm system. Cool rims but I perfer chrome rims
February 29, 2008This muramos is very good value and futures are good.
September 13, 2022Under-coating needs improvement, or a better paint job for long term ownership. I've not seen many older Nissan vehicles up in Northern New Yor without some rust spots due to the heavy salting, but I guess that can be expected in the area.
November 26, 2013Could use nav or back up camera but solid car
November 29, 2021Love it. I had two codes, P1800 and P0345(think) but I bought the parts got them on and havent had any problems with the truck. I Love Love Love it!
April 26, 2021Trims & specs
Base MSRP $30,180 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.5L 245 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $32,500 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.5L 240 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $37,130 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.5L 260 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $43,990 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 0.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
