Essentially, the Murano is an Altima station wagon as it uses the same structure and most of the same underpinnings. The Murano comes in three versions starting with the bargain priced S, the more subdued handling SL and the loaded SE. All of them utilize 4-wheel independent suspension including a multi-link rear suspension, a 3.5-liter V6 engine, a continuously variable automatic transmission and either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Although the all wheel drive model does not have a low range

2006 Nissan Murano

transfer case, the differential can lock so that you get a 50/50 power split for tough situations and low speeds. You can shift the transmission to some extend with choices of D for normal driving, S for more acceleration, and L for when you need more power at low speeds.

There are plenty of standard features among the best being the ABS, abundance of side and front airbags, and rollover sensor. The latter is especially important because all SUVs are susceptible to rollovers and the rate of accidents for them has been climbing alarmingly. If you are serious about any SUV you might also check your insurance carrier for rates before you buy. SUVs are also more expensive to maintain, require more fuel, and have less visibility than sedans.

I would go with the SL model, maybe order the xenon lights, and certainly take the antiskid and traction control. I do like the rear camera monitor, but I have mixed feeling about the GPS. It is costly and unless you travel a great deal the unit is largely left unused. I also could not find out if you could upload new data as information can quickly become obsolete in areas of growth. You should note that Nissan pioneered the bird's eye map view that makes for an interesting to read map, but at speed it is more difficult to follow. There is a DVD entertainment center option, too.

Visibility is surprisingly good, but don't make the mistake of thinking this is a small vehicle. It is going to fill your garage up and it weighs over 4000 pounds. If you share the vehicle with someone who is either much taller or shorter than you the power pedal adjustments might be a something to be considered. I did find it difficult to see the readouts in the dash pod that contains the instruments. I think Nissan was trying to be a bit too clever as the fonts were too small to read quickly, despite the natty look. All of the switches are easy to reach, and there are even rear air-conditioning outlets.

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Sound wise, the Murano has all the ingredients of a superior system, but they don't work well together. The stereo buttons are too small, the radio reception just average, and the controls to complex for easy use while driving. For audio and visual treats, our Murano was equipped with an

2006 Nissan Murano

optional Bose seven-speaker, 225-watt stereo audio system that included an in-dash six-disc changer and XM satellite radio connection. The unit can handle MP3 CDs, but I didn't test them.

With the technology option you get the large driver information display that shows temperature settings, audio controls, and information on the vehicle's performance. It isn't as difficult to use as some, but sometimes it becomes a nuisance when you just want to change the temperature setting or find your miles per gallon. After a while I don't feel this would be a problem once you master the joystick that you push to enter the information. It makes everything a bit more difficult if you actually are trying to change anything.