Nissan Announces Pricing on All-New 2009 Murano

- More Powerful, Redesigned Murano Priced $1,500 Less Than 2007 Models -

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Jan. 17 -- Nissan North America, Inc. today announced pricing on the all-new, totally redesigned 2009 Nissan Murano crossover with a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $1,500 lower on all models versus the previous generation. The 2009 Murano goes on sale this week at Nissan dealers nationwide.

The original Nissan Murano set new standards for style and sportiness when it was first introduced, becoming, in essence, a "class of one." The all-new, second generation 2009 Murano elevates that unique position with new exterior and interior designs, enhanced technology and a premium driving feel resulting from a new, advanced platform and continued refinement of Murano's standard 265-horsepower V6 engine (an increase of 25 horsepower over the previous generation) and advanced, second-generation Xtronic CVT(TM).

"When Murano was introduced in 2003, there were only eight vehicles in the middle crossover segment. Since then, the segment has grown to become the fifth largest in the industry with more than 20 models competing in this segment," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "We're pricing the all-new Murano to take advantage of the growing interest in the segment, adding standout value to its standout design, features, quality and safety."

The 2009 Murano is offered in five models Murano S FWD, Murano S AWD, Murano SL FWD, Murano SL AWD and a new Murano LE AWD model (the previous generation Murano included a Murano SE AWD model).

The 2009 Murano S FWD starts at an MSRP of $26,330 and comes fully equipped with intelligent Xtronic CVT(TM), dual zone air conditioning, power front windows with one-touch auto up/down with auto reverse feature, push button ignition, 60/40 split fold-flat rear seat, auxiliary audio input jack, 18-inch wheels and much more. The Murano S AWD has a starting MSRP of $27,930 and includes the extensive standard features on the FWD, along with Nissan's intuitive All-Wheel Drive system.

The Murano SL FWD, starting at $27,880 offers all the features on Murano S, plus rear privacy glass, front fog lights, steering wheel audio switches, leather wrapped steering wheel, 8-way power driver seat and 60/40 split fold- flat rear seatback with power return. The Murano SL AWD, starting at $29,480 adds intuitive AWD.

The new Murano LE AWD, starting at $35,910, offers new luxury and technology features such as 20-inch alloy wheels, bi-functional xenon headlights, Bose(R) audio system with 11 speakers, XM(R) Satellite Radio, Interface System for iPod(R), 7-inch color display, Intelligent Key, Bluetooth(R) Hands-free Phone System, driver position memory (seat, mirrors, and steering wheel), leather-appointed seats, heated front and rear seats, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, interior wood trim, power liftgate, RearView Monitor and many others.

About the 2009 Murano

The most striking visual element of the 2009 Murano is its new body, which imparts a "modern art" feel while still maintaining its distinctive "Murano- ness." The front end features a bold grille and wide front headlights, while Murano's new hood sweeps into the bodyline, with powerful wheel arches and available 20-inch wheels providing an aggressive stance. Murano's redesigned rear end features a unique rear glass shape for maximum visibility, rear air deflector, large rear LED taillights and dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers.

A new Murano option for 2009 is an available dual panel power sliding glass moonroof and 2nd row skylight. Three new exterior colors are also offered: Deep Sapphire, Tinted Bronze and Saharan Stone.

Inside, the 2009 Murano lives up to its "mobile suite" design theme with new levels of warmth and luxury. New front seats and a new steering wheel design provide increased passenger comfort, and warmth is provided by a new "Welcome Lighting" ambient lighting system, a new instrument panel design, available wood and aluminum accents and a 60/40 fold-flat rear seat with available power return. Other available features include a new foldaway cargo organizer, heated front and rear seats, power liftgate, rain-sensing front wipers and RearView Monitor.

All 2009 Muranos feature a VQ-series 3.5-liter DOHC V6 rated at 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque and an advanced Xtronic CVT(TM) with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) that provides a sporty and smooth driving experience. 2009 Muranos are available in front-wheel drive or with an advanced all-wheel drive system, and all Muranos come standard with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with a Traction Control System (TCS) for all-weather confidence.

The 2009 Murano is built on a new "D" platform, first introduced on the 2007 Altima, which provides a solid foundation and new, lighter suspension components with increased stiffness. New dual flow path shock absorbers provide sure footing on all surfaces, while a new twin-orifice speed-sensitive power steering system delivers the proper levels of assistance in around-town and high-speed driving.

Push button start is standard, along with iPod(R) connectivity (LE only). Available technology features include Intelligent Key, Bose(R) premium 11-speaker audio system, an advanced touch screen navigation system with 9.3GB Music Box hard drive, a new power-operated 9-inch roof-mounted screen (up from the previous generation's 6.4-inch screen) for Murano's DVD Mobile Entertainment System and Voice Recognition for audio, Bluetooth(R) and navigation system.

In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing.