Redefining Modern Luxury with the 2026 Nissan Murano
The 2026 Nissan Murano arrives as a complete reimagining of the midsize crossover, shifting its focus toward a sanctuary-like experience that prioritizes sophisticated design and high-end materials. This fourth-generation model moves away from the traditional V6 engine in favor of a responsive 2.0L I4 turbocharged powertrain, signaling a new era of efficiency and smooth power delivery. By eliminating the previous front-wheel-drive entry point, every version of this SUV now features standard 4WD, ensuring confident traction across the diverse road conditions found throughout New Port Richey.
Our team at Maus Nissan of New Port Richey is excited to showcase how this redesign bridges the gap between mainstream utility and genuine luxury. The exterior adopts a wide-body stance with ultra-thin LED headlights and a full-width LED tail light, creating a visual profile that shares more DNA with the electric Ariya than with traditional gas-powered SUVs. Inside, the cabin has been transformed into a “driving sanctuary,” featuring dual 12.3-inch displays and available massaging front seats that provide a level of comfort typically reserved for high-end European imports.
If you are looking for a vehicle that balances striking aesthetics with the latest in connected technology, we invite you to visit our showroom on US Highway 19 to see these updates in person. Our staff is ready to walk you through the new interface and assist with a test drive to demonstrate the refined 9-speed automatic transmission. For immediate answers regarding current availability or specific feature packages, you can reach our experts with (727) 999-6287 today.
Table of Contents
- Exploring the Three Distinct 2026 Nissan Murano Trim Levels
- Unpacking Performance Specs and the New Turbocharged Powertrain
- Inside the Sanctuary: Technology and Interior Comfort Features
- Standard Safety Shield 360 and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
- Comparing Cargo Versatility and Long-Term Warranty Protection
- Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Nissan Murano
- Experience the Future of the Murano at Maus Nissan of New Port Richey
Exploring the Three Distinct 2026 Nissan Murano Trim Levels
Choosing the right configuration for your lifestyle is straightforward with the 2026 lineup, which is organized into three well-defined grades: SV, SL, and Platinum. The SV serves as the foundational trim with a starting MSRP of $44,105. Unlike previous years where the base model was front-wheel drive, this entry point now comes standard with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. It features 20-inch gloss black aluminum-alloy wheels, a wireless phone charger, and the NissanConnect® 12.3″ touch-screen display, providing a premium feel from the very start of the range.
Pricing
MSRP and destination charges
| Feature | SV | SL | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $44,105 | $49,913 | $53,471 |
Lowest starting MSRP: SV at $44,105
Engine & Performance
| Feature | Standard across all trims |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L I4 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD |
Stepping up to the SL trim, which starts at an MSRP of $49,913, introduces a significant leap in convenience and ambiance. This mid-tier option adds a panoramic moonroof that opens up the cabin to natural light, along with Google built-in integration for seamless navigation and voice commands. For those who want even more luxury without moving to the top trim, the new SL Comfort package is available, bringing ventilated and massaging front seats, heated rear outboard seats, and a motion-activated power liftgate into the mix.
The pinnacle of the lineup is the Platinum trim, starting at an MSRP of $53,471. This version is designed for the most discerning drivers, sitting on 21-inch machine-finished aluminum-alloy wheels and featuring quilted semi-aniline leather-appointed seating. It includes the massaging front seats as standard equipment and offers the exclusive Technology package, which introduces ProPILOT Assist 2.1. This advanced system allows for hands-off freeway driving in specific conditions, making it a standout feature for long-distance travel on Florida highways.
Unpacking Performance Specs and the New Turbocharged Powertrain
Performance for the 2026 Murano has been fundamentally updated with the introduction of the 2.0L I4 Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) engine. This advanced powerplant replaces the aging V6 and delivers 241 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The variable compression technology allows the engine to physically change its compression ratio on the fly, optimizing for either maximum power when merging onto the highway or peak efficiency during steady-state cruising. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission that provides a more traditional and responsive feel than the previous CVT.
Warranty
Factory warranty coverage
| Coverage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Basic | 3 years / 36,000 miles (limited warranty) |
| Powertrain | 5 years / 60,000 miles (limited powertrain warranty) |
| Corrosion | Corrosion warranty included within Nissan limited warranty protection |
One of the most significant changes for this model year is the standardization of the drivetrain. Every 2026 Murano, regardless of the trim selected, comes equipped with 4WD. This Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system is designed to automatically distribute power between the front and rear wheels to maintain grip on slippery surfaces while defaulting to two-wheel drive during normal conditions to conserve fuel. Drivers also have more engagement than before, thanks to standard paddle shifters and a drive mode selector that allows you to toggle between Sport and Eco settings.
Fuel efficiency sees a notable improvement in specific driving cycles compared to the outgoing generation. The 2026 Murano achieves an EPA-estimated 21 city / 28 hwy MPG, resulting in a combined rating of 23 mpg. This balance of power and economy makes it a practical choice for daily commutes through New Port Richey. Additionally, for those who need to haul light recreational equipment, the Murano maintains a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds when properly equipped, which is sufficient for a small utility trailer or a pair of personal watercraft.
Inside the Sanctuary: Technology and Interior Comfort Features
The cabin of the 2026 Murano is engineered to be a quiet retreat from the outside world, utilizing active noise cancellation and acoustic dampening glass on the SL and Platinum trims. The focal point of the interior is the dual 12.3-inch displays that sit housed under a single piece of glass, creating a “monolith” look that is both modern and intuitive. The digital instrument cluster is fully reconfigurable, allowing you to prioritize navigation maps, safety alerts, or traditional gauges right in your line of sight.
Technology
Technology comparison across trims
| Feature | SV | SL | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voice Recognition (Siri® Eyes Free / Google Assistant™) | Optional | Standard | Standard |
| Virtual Personal Assistant (Google Assistant™) | — | Standard | Standard |
| Integrated Navigation System (Google Maps™) | — | Standard | Standard |
Standard across all trims:
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| NissanConnect® 12.3″ touch-screen display | ✓ |
| Reconfigurable LCD Instrument Cluster (12.3″ Multi-function information display) | ✓ |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay® integration | ✓ |
| Wireless Android Auto™ compatibility | ✓ |
| Wireless Audio Streaming (Bluetooth®) | ✓ |
| Satellite radio (AM/FM/SiriusXM® with 360L) | ✓ |
| USB Ports (count) | ✓ |
| USB Ports (4) | ✓ |
| Keyless ignition / keyless entry included (provision listed as keyfob keyless entry) | ✓ |
Comfort & Seating
Comfort & Seating comparison across trims
| Feature | SV | SL | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ventilated/Cooled Front Seats (Driver and passenger) | — | Optional | Standard |
| Front seat climate-controlled function (heated and ventilated front seats) | — | Optional | Standard |
| Heated rear outboard seats | — | Standard | Standard |
| Massaging front seats | — | — | Standard |
| Driver Lumbar Support (Power 2-way / Power 4-way and massage) | Standard | Standard | Optional |
| Passenger Lumbar Support (Power 4-way and massage) | — | Standard | Standard |
| Driver seat position memory | — | — | Standard |
| Steering-wheel position memory | — | — | Standard |
| Seat material (SV, SL) (Prima-Tex®) | Standard | Standard | — |
| Seat material (Platinum) (Quilted semi-aniline leather-appointed seats / Semi-Aniline) | — | — | Standard |
| Heated Steering Wheel | — | Standard | Standard |
| Front passenger seat power (Power) | Optional | Standard | Standard |
Standard across all trims:
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| Heated Front Seat(s) (Driver and passenger) | ✓ |
| Power front driver seat (Power; direction control 8-way adjustable) | ✓ |
| 60/40-split fold-down rear seatbacks | ✓ |
| Rear/Second Row Seating (Folding 60-40 bench seats) | ✓ |
Comfort is a primary pillar of the Murano’s identity, highlighted by the continued use of Zero Gravity front and rear outboard seats. These seats are designed to reduce pressure on the body during long drives, mimicking the neutral posture of weightlessness. In the Platinum trim, the experience is elevated with massaging front seats and 64-color ambient LED lighting that can be adjusted to suit your mood. Rear passengers are not forgotten, as they enjoy increased knee room compared to the previous generation and available rear door sunshades to block out the Florida sun.
Connectivity is handled through the latest version of NissanConnect®, which includes wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ as standard equipment. The available Bose® Premium Sound System with 10 speakers provides a rich, lifelike audio experience tailored specifically to the Murano’s interior acoustics. Furthermore, the inclusion of Google built-in on the SL and Platinum trims means you can use Google Assistant to control the dual-zone automatic climate control or search for destinations using Google Maps without ever having to plug in your phone.
Standard Safety Shield 360 and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
Safety remains a core strength for the 2026 Nissan Murano, which has earned the prestigious IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation. Every model comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield® 360, a comprehensive suite of six active safety technologies. This package includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, providing 360 degrees of monitoring to help prevent collisions before they happen. Additionally, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning can monitor up to two cars ahead to alert you to sudden braking that you might not yet see.
Safety Features
Safety Features comparison across trims
| Feature | SV | SL | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| 360-degree Surround View Camera | — | Standard | Standard |
| HD Enhanced Intelligent Around View® Monitor | — | Standard | Standard |
| Active Lane Centering/Freeway Cruise Control Support (ProPILOT Assist hands-on) | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Driver Attention Alert (Intelligent Driver Alertness (I-DA)) | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Cruise Control — Adaptive (Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC)) | Optional | Standard | Standard |
| Cruise Control — Automatic Curve Slowdown | Optional | Standard | Standard |
Standard across all trims:
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| Emergency SOS (NissanConnect® Services powered by SiriusXM® integrated) | ✓ |
| Driver Front-impact Air Bag (Nissan Advanced Air Bag System with dual-stage supplemental front air bags and knee bags) | ✓ |
| Passenger Front-impact Air Bag (Nissan Advanced Air Bag System with dual-stage supplemental front air bags and knee bags) | ✓ |
| Driver Side-impact Air Bag (Seat mounted) | ✓ |
| Passenger Side-impact Air Bag (Seat mounted) | ✓ |
| Rear Side-impact Air Bag | ✓ |
| Curtain Air Bag (Curtain 1st and 2nd row) | ✓ |
| Intelligent Forward Collision Warning w/Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) mitigation | ✓ |
| Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection (P-AEB) prevention | ✓ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) w/Rear Automatic Braking (RAB) mitigation | ✓ |
| Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention® (I-BSI) | ✓ |
| Active Lane Keep Assist (Intelligent Lane Intervention (I-LI)) | ✓ |
| Cruise Control — Adaptive (Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) with traffic stop-go) | ✓ |
| Parking Sensors (Front and Rear Sonar System) | ✓ |
| Front and Rear Sonar System (parking sensors) | ✓ |
| High Beam Assist (HBA) / Auto High Beam Headlights | ✓ |
| Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) | ✓ |
| Hill Start Assist (HSA) | ✓ |
| Hill Hold Control (as listed with HSA) | ✓ |
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety ratings and driver assistance systems
| Feature | SV | SL | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| IIHS Rating | TOP SAFETY PICK+ (highest award) | TOP SAFETY PICK+ (highest award) | TOP SAFETY PICK+ (highest award) |
Standard across all trims:
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| IIHS Top Safety Pick+ (midsize SUV/4-door SUV) | ✓ |
| Head restraints: updated test ratings shown as “G” for driver and passenger | ✓ |
| Small overlap front (driver-side and passenger-side): “G” | ✓ |
For highway driving, the standard ProPILOT Assist system combines Intelligent Cruise Control with Steering Assist to help you stay centered in your lane and maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front of you. This is particularly helpful during stop-go traffic on busy corridors. The Platinum trim takes this a step further with the available ProPILOT Assist 2.1, which utilizes high-definition mapping and advanced sensors to allow for hands-off driving on compatible freeways, provided the driver remains attentive to the road.
Parking and low-speed maneuvering are made significantly easier through integrated camera technologies. The available 3D Enhanced Intelligent Around View® Monitor provides a virtual composite 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the vehicle. A new feature for 2026 is Invisible Hood View, which allows the driver to “see through” the engine compartment on the display screen to spot curbs or obstacles directly in front of the wheels. These systems work together to ensure that navigating tight spaces is as stress-free as the rest of the driving experience.
Comparing Cargo Versatility and Long-Term Warranty Protection
While the Murano focuses heavily on passenger luxury, it remains a versatile tool for daily errands and weekend trips. It offers about 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, which expands to roughly 64 cubic feet when the 60/40 split rear seats are folded flat. This provides ample room for golf clubs, groceries, or luggage for a family vacation. The cargo area is easily accessible via the available motion-activated power liftgate, which triggers with a simple kick motion under the rear bumper when your hands are full.
Dimensions & Capacity
| Feature | Standard across all trims |
|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Length | 192.9 |
| Width | 78 |
| Height | 68 |
Ownership of a 2026 Murano is backed by a manufacturer warranty package. Every new model includes a 3-year / 36,000-mile limited warranty and a 5-year / 60,000-mile limited powertrain warranty. Additionally, Nissan Roadside Assistance is included for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles, providing a safety net for unexpected situations. If you experience a flat tire or mechanical issue, you can reach the dedicated support line at Nissan Roadside Assistance: 1-800-647-7261 for expert help and towing to an authorized service center.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Nissan Murano
Q: Does the 2026 Nissan Murano still use a CVT transmission?
No, the 2026 Murano has replaced the previous continuously variable transmission with a more traditional 9-speed automatic transmission. This change provides more distinct gear shifts and a more responsive feel when accelerating or towing.
Q: Is the 2026 Murano available with front-wheel drive?
For the 2026 model year, Nissan has eliminated the front-wheel-drive configuration for the Murano. Every trim level, from the SV to the Platinum, now comes standard with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (4WD).
Q: Can the 2026 Murano drive itself on the highway?
When equipped with ProPILOT Assist 2.1, which is available on the Platinum trim, the Murano allows for hands-off driving on specific compatible freeways. However, the system requires the driver to remain attentive and be ready to take control at any time.
Q: What are the main differences between the SL and Platinum trims?
While both are luxurious, the Platinum trim adds 21-inch wheels, quilted semi-aniline leather, and standard massaging front seats. The SL focuses on value with a panoramic moonroof and Google built-in, though many Platinum features can be added to the SL via the Comfort package.
Q: What kind of fuel does the new turbo engine require?
The 2.0L I4 VC-Turbo engine in the 2026 Murano is designed to run on unleaded regular fuel. This helps keep daily operating costs manageable while still delivering the performance benefits of a turbocharged powertrain.
Experience the Future of the Murano at Maus Nissan of New Port Richey
The 2026 Nissan Murano represents a significant leap forward in style and technology, and there is no better way to appreciate the “sanctuary” interior than by sitting in it yourself. We invite you to visit our New Port Richey dealership to explore the new trim levels and see the striking LED lighting in person. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect configuration for your needs, whether you are interested in the value of the SV or the hands-off capabilities of the Platinum. Give us a quick call to schedule your personalized walk-through and test drive today.
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