After over a decade of minimal changes, the Nissan Murano has undergone a complete redesign, emerging as a thoroughly modern and sophisticated midsize crossover. The third-generation Murano represents a significant leap forward in design, technology, and refinement. Among its various trim levels, the SV stands out as a compelling option, offering an attractive balance of features, comfort, and value. 

Sophisticated Powerplant and Driving Dynamics

The Nissan Murano SV comes with the innovative Nissan 2.0-litre Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) four-cylinder engine, replacing the previous generation’s naturally aspirated V6. This technically advanced powerplant delivers 241 horsepower and 260 Nm of torque—ample power for confident highway passing and hill climbing.

One of the most significant improvements is the replacement of the previous continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a responsive 9-speed automatic transmission. This traditional automatic provides smoother, more predictable acceleration and enhances the overall driving experience with clearly defined shift points and improved response.

The Nissan Murano SV is available in front-wheel drive and Intelligent All-Wheel Drive configurations, allowing buyers to choose based on local climate conditions and personal preference. The AWD system intelligently distributes torque between the front and rear wheels as needed, providing enhanced traction in adverse weather conditions while maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency. Fuel consumption rates at approximately 10.6 L/100 km in city driving and 8.6 L/100 km on highways for the AWD variant.

Striking Exterior Design

The Nissan Murano embraces a bold, distinctive design language that sets it apart in the crowded midsize crossover segment. The SV trim features:

• 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels that provide both visual impact and a more planted stance
• LED headlights and taillights with signature daytime running lights
• Chrome accents along the window line and door handles
• Roof rails for additional cargo-carrying capability
• Power-adjustable heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signals
• Privacy glass for rear passengers
• Available panoramic moonroof (optional)

While the base model offers a compelling visual presence, the SV adds several premium touches that enhance both form and function without the additional cost of higher trim levels. The clean lines and distinctive front fascia create a modern, upscale appearance that reflects the Murano position as the premium Nissan crossover offering.

Refined Interior Comfort

The interior of the Murano SV represents a significant upgrade in materials, design, and technology. Key interior features include:

• Heated leatherette seats in either Gray or Graphite colorways, offering a premium feel without the additional cost of leather upholstery
• Eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with two-way power lumbar support
• Six-way power-adjustable passenger seat
• Heated steering wheel for cold-weather comfort
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Generous interior dimensions with 44.3 cm of front legroom
• 36.3 cm of rear legroom for comfortable adult seating
• Impressive cargo capacity with 32.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 63.5 cubic feet with rear seats folded

The interior design employs a clean, contemporary aesthetic with soft-touch materials and thoughtful ergonomics. While the higher SL and Platinum trims offer additional luxury touches like leather upholstery and ambient lighting, the SV’s interior presents an excellent balance of comfort and value, with materials and build quality that exceed expectations for its position in the lineup.

Advanced Technology Suite

The Nissan Murano SV comes equipped with an impressive array of technology features that would have been reserved for luxury vehicles just a few years ago:

• Dual 12.3-inch displays (one for the digital instrument cluster and one for the infotainment system)
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connectivity
• Bluetooth hands-free phone system with streaming audio capability
• Multiple USB ports (Type-A and Type-C) for device connectivity and charging
• Satellite radio capability
• Six-speaker audio system
• Intelligent Key with push-button ignition
• Remote engine start system with intelligent climate control
• Rear USB charging ports for second-row passengers

The large, high-resolution displays create a modern, tech-forward cockpit that rivals luxury brands. You can customize the digital instrument cluster to display various information layouts according to driver preference. At the same time, the infotainment touchscreen provides intuitive access to media, navigation, vehicle settings, and smartphone integration.

Comprehensive Safety Features

The SV trim includes the extensive Nissan suite of safety and driver assistance technologies, known collectively as Nissan Safety Shield 360. This comprehensive package includes:

• Intelligent Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Departure Warning with Lane Intervention
• Blind Spot Warning
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• High Beam Assist
• Rear Automatic Braking
• Intelligent Around View Monitor (360-degree camera system)
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• Driver Attention Alert

Additionally, the SV trim includes the Nissan ProPILOT Assist, a hands-on driver assistance system that helps with steering, acceleration, and braking during single-lane highway driving. This advanced system reduces driver fatigue on long journeys while maintaining the engagement expected for safe driving.

Comparison to Other Murano Trims

When positioned against other trims in the Nissan Murano lineup, the SV offers several advantages:

Compared to Base Trim

The SV builds upon the base model with several key upgrades:

• Larger 20-inch wheels (versus 18-inch on the base model)
• Heated front seats and heated steering wheel
• Power-adjustable front seats
• Remote engine start
• Additional driver assistance features
• Roof rails for expanded cargo capability

Compared to SL Trim

While the SL adds certain premium features, the SV offers more essential comfort and technology elements at a more accessible price point:

• The SL adds leather-appointed seating (versus leatherette in the SV)
• Memory settings for the driver’s seat (not available on SV)
• Four-way power lumbar (versus two-way on SV)
• 10-speaker Bose Premium audio system (versus six-speaker system on SV)
• Standard AWD (optional on SV)
• Built-in Google assistance

Compared to Platinum Trim

The top-tier Platinum trim adds luxury touches that, while nice to have, may not justify the significant price premium for many buyers:

• Semi-aniline leather seats with diamond quilting (versus leatherette on SV)
• Front seat massage function (not available on SV)
• Ventilated front seats (not available on SV)
• Heated rear seats (not available on SV)
• Premium wood trim accents
• Exclusive colour options

Practical Utility

The Nissan Murano SV offers impressive practicality for everyday use and occasional adventures:

• Cargo capacity of 32.9 cubic feet behind the second row provides ample space for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment
• With the rear seats folded, cargo capacity expands to 63.5 cubic feet
• Intelligent AWD (when selected) provides all-weather capability
• Ground clearance of 21.1 cm allows for confident driving on rougher roads
• Fuel tank capacity of 71 litres enables extended range between fill-ups
• 1,500 kg towing capacity for small trailers or recreational equipment

The thoughtful interior design includes numerous storage compartments, including a spacious center console, door pockets, and clever spaces for smaller items like smartphones, sunglasses, and water bottles.

Why the SV Trim Represents the Sweet Spot

For most buyers, the Nissan Murano SV represents the optimal balance within the lineup for several key reasons:

1. Value Proposition: The SV includes the most sought-after comfort and convenience features without the premium price of higher trims.
2. Premium Feel: With heated leatherette seats, dual digital displays, and a comprehensive safety suite, the SV offers a near-luxury experience.
3. Flexibility: Available in both FWD and AWD configurations, the SV allows buyers to choose based on their specific needs.
4. Visual Impact: With 20-inch wheels and premium exterior touches, the SV presents as well as higher trims to the casual observer.
5. Practical Luxury: The SV prioritizes features that enhance daily driving (heated seats, remote start, power liftgate) over purely cosmetic upgrades in higher trims.

2025 Nissan Murano: The Rational Choice

The completely redesigned Nissan Murano represents a significant step forward for the model, with dramatic improvements in design, technology, and driving dynamics. Within this thoroughly modern lineup, the SV trim emerges as the rational choice for discerning buyers who value substance over status.

The Murano SV delivers a compelling blend of sophistication, technology, and value by offering the most meaningful comfort and convenience features without the premium price of higher trims. The premium feel of the leatherette interior, the visual impact of 20-inch wheels, and the comprehensive safety suite create an experience that rivals luxury brands while maintaining the practicality and value for which Nissan is known.

For buyers seeking a midsize crossover that balances style, comfort, technology, and value, the Nissan Murano SV stands out as the optimal choice, ot just within the Murano lineup but within the broader midsize crossover segment. It embodies the best of what the new Murano offers without unnecessary extravagances, making it the sensible choice for those who appreciate thoughtful design and engineering.