Nissan is probably the only mainstream Japanese carmaker right now with an overall positive feedback for its design direction even when it treads on dangerous waters as it did with the Juke. The new and edgier designed third gen Murano that made its world auto show premiere today in New York continues that theme.
Speaking to Autonews after the presentation of the Murano at the Javits Center, Andy Palmer, Nissan’s global chief of product planning, said that the Japanese company’s decision to apply a bolder design and remain close to the Resonance Concept from last year’s Detroit Auto Show, was strategic.
“As we close in on Honda, it will be distinctive styling like this that brings new customers into our products,” said Palmer. “And frankly, I’d rather have 60 percent of people saying they like it, and 40 percent of people saying they hate it than to have 100 percent of people saying it’s just OK.”
Who would disagree with that?
The new Murano will go on sale later this year with a 3.5-liter V6 rated for 260hp and 240 lb-ft, matched to a new Xtronic continually variable transmission driving either the front or all four wheels, with Nissan expecting fuel economy savings of up to 20 percent over the previous model, thanks to a number of factors including a more efficient powertrain and a reduction in weight.
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