Let's dive into the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD review, a vehicle that slides into that sweet spot between stylish design and practical functionality. The Murano has always been a bit of a head-turner in the mid-size SUV class, and the 2018 model year keeps that trend alive. We're going to break down what makes the SL AWD trim a compelling option, covering everything from its performance on the road to its interior comforts and tech features. So, if you're in the market for a comfortable and capable SUV, stick around as we explore the ins and outs of this particular Murano.

Exterior Design: A Stylish Statement

The exterior of the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD makes a statement without being overly aggressive. Nissan has always aimed for a sleek, almost futuristic design language with the Murano, and it certainly shows. The front fascia is dominated by Nissan's V-Motion grille, which gives it a distinctive and recognizable look. The LED headlights and daytime running lights add a touch of sophistication, while also improving visibility. The body lines flow smoothly from front to back, creating an aerodynamic profile that not only looks good but also helps with fuel efficiency. The rear of the Murano is equally stylish, with boomerang-shaped LED taillights and a sculpted tailgate. The SL trim adds some nice touches like chrome accents and roof rails, enhancing its overall premium feel. Available in a range of colors, from understated classics to bolder hues, the Murano allows buyers to express their personal style. It’s a design that manages to stand out in a crowded segment, appealing to those who want a vehicle that looks as good parked as it does cruising down the highway. Considering competitors in its class, the Murano holds its own in terms of aesthetics, offering a unique alternative to more traditionally styled SUVs. For those prioritizing visual appeal, the Murano’s design is definitely a strong selling point.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD, you're greeted with a cabin that prioritizes comfort and technology. The SL trim comes with leather upholstery, which adds a touch of luxury to the seats and door panels. The seats themselves are incredibly comfortable, offering ample support for long drives. Both the front seats are heated, and the driver's seat has power adjustments, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats also recline, adding an extra layer of comfort for those in the back. In terms of technology, the Murano SL comes well-equipped. The infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display that's easy to use and responsive. It includes navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, so you can seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The sound system is impressive, delivering clear and crisp audio throughout the cabin. Other tech features include a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. These features not only enhance convenience but also improve safety. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with all the essential controls within easy reach. Overall, the interior of the Murano SL is a pleasant place to be, offering a comfortable and tech-filled environment for both the driver and passengers. It strikes a nice balance between luxury and practicality, making it a great choice for families or anyone who spends a lot of time on the road.

Performance and Handling: Smooth Operator

When it comes to performance, the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD offers a smooth and refined driving experience. Under the hood, you'll find a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to maximize fuel efficiency. While some drivers might not be fans of CVTs, Nissan's version is well-tuned and provides smooth acceleration. The all-wheel-drive system ensures confident traction in various weather conditions, making it a great choice for those who live in areas with snow or rain. On the road, the Murano feels stable and composed. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes, providing a comfortable ride. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic. While the Murano isn't exactly a sporty SUV, it offers adequate power for merging onto the highway and passing other vehicles. Fuel economy is decent for its class, with EPA estimates of 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Overall, the Murano SL AWD is a capable and comfortable performer. It's not the fastest or most exciting SUV on the market, but it excels at providing a smooth and relaxed driving experience. The combination of a V6 engine, CVT transmission, and all-wheel-drive system makes it a versatile choice for a variety of driving conditions.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind

Safety is a top priority for most car buyers, and the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD doesn't disappoint. It comes packed with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. The SL trim adds several advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you when there's a vehicle in your blind spot, helping you avoid accidents when changing lanes. Rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance between you and the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed as needed. In addition to these features, the Murano also has a rearview camera, which makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have both given the Murano good safety ratings, further reinforcing its commitment to safety. Overall, the Murano SL AWD provides peace of mind with its extensive list of safety features. Whether you're driving in the city or on the highway, you can feel confident that you and your passengers are well-protected.

Cargo Space and Practicality: Room for Everything

Beyond its stylish design and comfortable interior, the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD also offers a good amount of cargo space and practicality. Behind the rear seats, you'll find 32.1 cubic feet of cargo volume, which is plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or other gear. If you need more space, you can fold down the rear seats to create a total of 67 cubic feet of cargo volume. The rear seats fold down easily with the pull of a lever, making it simple to configure the cargo area to your needs. The Murano also has a low cargo floor, which makes it easier to load and unload heavy items. In addition to the cargo area, there are plenty of storage compartments throughout the cabin. The center console has a large storage bin, and the door pockets are a good size for holding water bottles and other small items. The glove compartment is also spacious enough to hold important documents and maps. The Murano is a practical choice for families or anyone who needs a versatile vehicle. Whether you're hauling groceries, transporting luggage, or carrying sports equipment, the Murano has the space and flexibility to handle it all. The combination of ample cargo space, convenient storage compartments, and a user-friendly design makes it a great choice for everyday use.

Trim Levels and Options: Finding the Right Fit

The 2018 Nissan Murano is available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. The base S trim comes with standard features like a rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a six-speaker audio system. The SV trim adds features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The SL trim, which we're focusing on in this review, includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium Bose audio system. The top-of-the-line Platinum trim adds features like ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 360-degree camera system. In addition to the different trim levels, there are also several optional packages available. The Technology Package adds features like lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Premium Package includes features like a power liftgate, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. With so many different trim levels and options to choose from, it's easy to find a Murano that fits your needs and budget. Whether you're looking for a basic, affordable SUV or a fully loaded luxury model, there's a Murano for you. The SL trim strikes a nice balance between features and price, making it a popular choice among buyers.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Before making a final decision, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD. On the positive side, the Murano offers a stylish exterior design, a comfortable and tech-filled interior, and a smooth and refined driving experience. It also comes with a comprehensive suite of safety features and a decent amount of cargo space. On the negative side, the Murano's CVT transmission might not be to everyone's liking, and its fuel economy isn't the best in its class. Additionally, some competitors offer more cargo space and more advanced technology features. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a Murano depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize style, comfort, and safety, the Murano is definitely worth considering. However, if you're looking for the most practical or technologically advanced SUV on the market, you might want to explore other options.

Final Verdict: A Stylish and Comfortable Choice

In conclusion, the 2018 Nissan Murano SL AWD is a stylish and comfortable mid-size SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. Its eye-catching design, comfortable interior, and smooth driving experience make it a pleasure to drive. The SL trim adds a touch of luxury with its leather upholstery and premium features. While it may not be the most practical or technologically advanced SUV on the market, it excels at providing a comfortable and refined driving experience. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that stands out from the crowd, the Murano is definitely worth a look. It's a great choice for families, couples, or anyone who wants a stylish and comfortable vehicle that's also safe and reliable. The Murano SL AWD strikes a nice balance between features, price, and performance, making it a compelling option in its class.