New 2014 Nissan Murano revealed, with hybrid for UK

New Nissan Murano expands Nissan's SUV range, with hybrid model coming to the UK

Nissan has revealed the all-new third-generation Murano at this year's New York Motor Show. With a design inspired by the Resonance concept first unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show, the new Nissan Murano carries forward the Japanese manufacturer’s SUV family design direction and will arrive in showrooms later this year. 

The outgoing Murano was dropped from the brand’s UK lineup due to poor sales but Nissan has confirmed that a hybrid model will be coming here, with the brand describing the model as "an important car for Nissan in Europe."

As Nissan is marketing the new X-Trail as a crossover, the change opens up a gap in the range for a halo SUV model.

Adopting styling cues such as the boomerang lights and floating roof from the Resonance concept, design features from the new Qashqai and X-Trail are evident. The prominent chrome grille and gently sloping roofline are two design features carried over to this new model, while subtly bulging wheel arches and the rising waistline break up the increased proportions.

Staying true to the Resonance concept theme, Nissan has added what they call an ‘upscale social lounge interior’ to the Murano. The instrument panel has been lowered and a new 8-inch colour display significantly reduces the number of buttons on the centre consol. Another new feature is the Drive-Assist Display, which adds a 7-inch high-res colour screen to the instrument cluster.

NASA-inspired front and rear zero gravity seats – designed to minimize muscular strain – feature as standard on all models. Other features include dual-zone air con, heated steering wheel, remote engine start, power folding rear seats and an optional 11-speaker Bose surround sound system.

From launch, the third-gen Murano will be available with a 257bhp 3.5-litre V6 in 2WD or 4WD form. Fuel economy is also said to improved  by 20 per cent thanks to a 59kg weight saving, enhanced aerodynamics and engine developments.

Production of the new model will also move from the firm’s plant in Japan to the Canton, Mississippi facility. Official pricing will be announced close to the car’s launch. 

We'll get our first proper look at the Nissan Murano in the metal at the 2014 New York Motor Show. Read all about it here.

Read more: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/nissan/murano/86623/new-2014-nissan-murano-revealed-with-hybrid-for-uk#ixzz2z3ibj2eP