2017 Nissan Murano Platinum: HP & Review

Let's dive into the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum, a vehicle that effortlessly blends style, comfort, and performance. If you're considering this model, you're probably wondering about its horsepower (HP) and what makes the Platinum trim stand out. Well, you're in the right place! This comprehensive review will cover everything you need to know, from its engine specs to its luxurious features, ensuring you make an informed decision.

Under the Hood: Horsepower and Performance

The heart of the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum is its robust 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine is designed to deliver a smooth and responsive driving experience, making it perfect for both city commutes and long highway journeys. So, how much horsepower are we talking about? The 2017 Murano Platinum churns out an impressive 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. This power is more than adequate for confident acceleration and effortless cruising.

This horsepower figure is crucial because it directly impacts the vehicle's performance. With 260 HP, the Murano Platinum can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.3 seconds, which is quite respectable for a mid-size SUV. The engine is paired with Nissan's Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which further enhances the driving experience by providing seamless gear transitions and optimizing fuel efficiency. Guys, this means you get a smooth ride without sacrificing power!

Fuel efficiency is another important aspect to consider. The 2017 Murano Platinum achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. While these numbers may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions, they are competitive within its class. The combination of decent horsepower and reasonable fuel economy makes the Murano Platinum a practical choice for daily use. Remember, regular maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, will help keep your Murano running efficiently for years to come.

Beyond the numbers, the Murano Platinum's performance is characterized by its refined ride quality. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, providing a comfortable and composed ride. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the open road, the Murano Platinum offers a pleasant and enjoyable driving experience. Plus, the available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system provides added confidence and traction in inclement weather conditions, making it a versatile choice for drivers in various climates.

Platinum Perks: Luxury and Features

The "Platinum" in the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum signifies a step up in luxury and features. This trim level is packed with premium amenities that enhance both comfort and convenience. Let's explore some of the standout features that make the Platinum trim so desirable.

First and foremost, the interior is adorned with high-quality materials, creating a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere. The seats are wrapped in premium leather with diamond-quilted inserts, providing exceptional comfort and visual appeal. Both the front and rear seats are heated, ensuring everyone stays cozy during those chilly winter months. The front seats also offer ventilation, keeping you cool and comfortable in the summer heat. These seats are designed for long-haul comfort, making road trips a breeze.

In terms of technology, the 2017 Murano Platinum boasts an array of advanced features. The centerpiece is the NissanConnect infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display. This system provides access to navigation, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a variety of other apps and services. The intuitive interface and responsive touchscreen make it easy to control various functions. The Platinum trim also includes a premium Bose audio system with 11 speakers, delivering crisp and immersive sound quality. Whether you're listening to your favorite music or catching up on podcasts, the audio system enhances the overall driving experience.

Safety is another area where the Murano Platinum excels. It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety technologies, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward emergency braking. These systems help to alert you to potential hazards and can even intervene to prevent or mitigate collisions. The Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection provides a 360-degree view of your surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier. These safety features provide added peace of mind for you and your passengers.

On the exterior, the Platinum trim stands out with its unique styling cues. It features exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior accents, and LED headlights. These elements give the Murano Platinum a more upscale and refined appearance. The power panoramic sunroof adds an open and airy feel to the cabin, allowing natural light to flood in. The hands-free power liftgate makes loading and unloading cargo a breeze, especially when your hands are full. These exterior features enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of the Murano Platinum.

Driving Experience: Comfort and Handling

Beyond the horsepower and features, the driving experience is a critical factor to consider. The 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum is designed to provide a comfortable and refined ride, making it a joy to drive. Let's delve into what it's like behind the wheel.

The first thing you'll notice is the smooth and quiet ride. The Murano Platinum's suspension effectively absorbs bumps and road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride even on rough surfaces. The cabin is well-insulated, minimizing road noise and creating a serene environment. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the Murano Platinum keeps you feeling relaxed and refreshed. The comfortable seats, combined with the smooth ride, make it an ideal choice for drivers who prioritize comfort.

The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic. The Murano Platinum doesn't feel bulky or cumbersome, despite its size. The turning radius is relatively tight, allowing you to navigate tight corners and parking spaces with ease. The available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system provides added traction and stability, especially in wet or snowy conditions. The AWD system automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels, optimizing grip and control. This makes the Murano Platinum a capable and confident performer in various driving conditions.

The 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers ample power for confident acceleration and passing. The CVT transmission provides smooth and seamless gear changes, enhancing the overall driving experience. While the CVT may not appeal to drivers who prefer traditional automatic transmissions, it does a great job of maximizing fuel efficiency and providing a refined driving experience. The Murano Platinum offers a balanced combination of power, comfort, and handling, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers.

The visibility is excellent, thanks to the large windows and elevated seating position. The available Around View Monitor provides a 360-degree view of your surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier. The blind-spot monitoring system alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, helping to prevent accidents. These features enhance safety and make driving the Murano Platinum a more confident and enjoyable experience. Overall, the driving experience is characterized by its comfort, refinement, and ease of use.

Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum Right for You?

So, after considering the horsepower, features, and driving experience, is the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum the right choice for you? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a mid-size SUV that offers a blend of style, comfort, and performance, the Murano Platinum is definitely worth considering.

The 260 horsepower V6 engine provides ample power for most driving situations, and the CVT transmission delivers smooth and efficient performance. The Platinum trim is packed with premium features, including leather seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies. The comfortable ride and refined handling make it a joy to drive, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip. However, the Murano Platinum may not be the best choice for drivers who need maximum cargo space or off-road capability. Other SUVs in this class may offer more cargo room or a more rugged design.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum is right for you is to take it for a test drive. Experience the horsepower and handling firsthand, and see if the features and amenities meet your needs. Consider your budget and compare it to other SUVs in its class. With its combination of style, comfort, and performance, the Murano Platinum is a compelling option for drivers seeking a refined and enjoyable driving experience. And hey, who doesn't love a little luxury in their ride? You should feel good and confident about your choice.

If you value a comfortable and stylish SUV with plenty of features, the 2017 Nissan Murano Platinum should definitely be on your shortlist. Just make sure to weigh its strengths and weaknesses against your specific needs to make the best decision for you. Happy car hunting!