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Nissan Murano: Z51 and Z52 generations, engines and trims
The Nissan Murano is a large five-seater SUV with a distinctive design and a V6 engine. Only the first two generations were officially sold in Europe, so newer Z52 models in Lithuania are often imported from the USA. We'll look at the differences between generations, engines, trims, and the problematic CVT gearbox, which must be checked before buying.
The Murano in brief
The Murano has been in production since 2002. It's a five-seater SUV with a sleek, coupe-like body shape and a spacious, comfortable interior. Most models come with a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and a problematic Xtronic CVT gearbox.
The Murano is chosen for its comfort, quiet ride, and generous equipment for the price. The main concerns are the condition of the CVT gearbox and high fuel consumption, and for US-imported cars, their history.
Z51 and Z52 — what's the difference
The first generation (Z50, 2002–2008) is now rare and usually has very high mileage. The second generation (Z51, 2008–2014) was officially sold in Europe: its interior is more refined, there's more equipment, and from 2010, a 2.5 dCi diesel engine was offered in Europe. The US also produced the unusual Murano CrossCabriolet version with a retractable roof.
The third generation (Z52, from 2014, 2015 model year) was not officially sold in Europe, so almost all Z52 models in Lithuania are from the USA. It's more modern and economical than the Z51, and was refreshed at the end of 2018 (2019 model year) with changes to the front, headlights, and interior trim.
By the end of 2024, the fourth-generation Murano will be introduced in the US with a 2.0-litre turbo engine, but it's still rare in the used market. For most buyers, the most realistic choice is a refreshed Z52 or a well-maintained European Z51.
Engines and transmissions
The 3.5 V6 petrol engine (VQ35) is the mainstay for the Z50, Z51, and Z52 generations, with power ranging from about 235 to 265 hp depending on the model and market. It's considered robust and smooth-running, but it guzzles fuel in the city.
Most Muranos come with the stepless Xtronic CVT transmission and all-wheel drive; US Z52 versions often have front-wheel drive only. The European 2.5 dCi diesel engine (around 190 hp) is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The Murano Hybrid, briefly offered in the US from 2016 to 2017 with a 2.5-litre supercharged petrol engine, is very rare. When buying such a car, it's particularly important to ensure the service centre has experience with this hybrid system.
What to check when buying a used Murano
The most crucial component is the CVT transmission. During a test drive, it should not hesitate, stutter, or lag when accelerating, and the speed should increase smoothly when you press the accelerator. Ask if the CVT fluid has been changed – regular replacement significantly extends the transmission's lifespan, and repairs can be expensive.
Check the history of the car imported from the USA using the VIN: ensure it wasn't written off after an accident or flood. US versions often need headlights adapted for Lithuania, and cars from northern states, where salt is used in winter, should be inspected for rust underneath.
Check the all-wheel-drive system, suspension components, and brakes — the Murano is a heavy car. For the diesel Z51, inspect the turbo and diesel particulate filter (DPF), especially if the car has done a lot of city driving.
Trim levels
In Lithuania, you'll mostly find US-market trim levels; European Z51s were often well-equipped as standard. Equipment varies by year.
S
Z52The base US trim — the simplest and most affordable.
- Cloth seats
- Often — 18-inch wheels
- A more basic infotainment system
SV
Z52The most popular choice — a good balance of price and features.
- Keyless entry and start
- Often — heated front seats
- Often — navigation and sunroof
SL
Z52A comfortable version with a leather interior.
- Leather interior
- Often — Bose sound system
- Often — surround-view camera system
Platinum
Z52The top-tier Z52 trim with the most luxurious features.
- Ventilated front seats
- Heated steering wheel and rear seats
- Mostly — 20-inch alloy wheels
LE
Z51 (USA)The top-tier Z51 trim in the US market.
- Single-tone interior with wood trim
- Often — navigation and Bose sound system
- Often — power-operated tailgate
Comparison of Z52 generation trims
| S | SV | SL | Platinum | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For the tightest budget | For daily driving | Comfort | Luxury |
| Wheels (most common) | 18-inch | 18-inch | 18–20-inch | 20-inch |
| Interior | Leather | Leather, often heated seats | Single-tone | Single-tone, ventilated seats |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Budget | Mid-range | Mid-range | Premium |
Most buyers' best bet is the SV or SL: plenty of kit, and the price is still reasonable. Platinum is worth considering for the luxury, but whichever trim you go for, the key thing is the condition of the CVT and the car's history.
Pros
- A comfortable, quiet cabin and a supple ride
- A robust 3.5 V6 engine
- Lots of kit for the money
- Distinctive design
Cons
- The CVT gearbox needs looking after, and repairs can be expensive
- High fuel consumption
- Newer cars often come from the US, and their history can be unclear
Frequently asked questions
Is the Nissan Murano CVT gearbox reliable?
A well-maintained CVT can last a long time, but it's sensitive to fluid condition and overheating. Before buying, ask about fluid changes and test-drive the car on a longer route – hesitation, juddering or delay on acceleration can indicate expensive repairs are needed.
Why are newer Muranos mostly imported from the US?
Nissan only sold the Murano in Europe up to the Z51 generation, while the Z52 was mainly for North America and a few other markets. So, newer Muranos in Lithuania almost always come from the US, and their history should be checked via the VIN.
How does the Murano differ from the X-Trail?
The Murano is larger, more luxurious, with a V6 engine and focused on comfort, while the X-Trail is more practical, more economical and can have a third row of seats. If low running costs are key, the X-Trail is usually the more sensible choice.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
