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.