2003 Nissan Murano Review
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
A stylish melding of form and function. More than just a tall station wagon, the Murano has several unique features to recommend it to the pseudo-SUV buyer.
Pros
Very good use of interior space, unique styling inside and out, smooth and powerful engine.
Cons
No third-row seating, SE model rides harshly, gets pricey with options.
What's New for 2003
Not satisfied with the current crop of crossover SUVs? Nissan rolls out the newest car-based SUV, the Murano. It boasts a powerful V6 engine and distinctive styling.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Nissan & Transmissions
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 8 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 5 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Nissan Murano SE Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
Review
I purchased my Murano after reading numerous Edmunds' reviews. In January of '06 everything I read was positive, yet now I sit with a $5000 estimate to rebuild my transmission on an '03 vehicle that has just tripped 87,000 miles. This is my 2nd Nissan & my 2nd issue with replacing a transmission (the 1st a '92 Maxima with over 150,000 miles). I too have had the issue of putting my foot on the gas and getting no power after a stop in traffic. It's scary, dangerous & frustrating to think I know have to replace a transmission so soon.
Favorite Features
The comfort level and space with kids. Great drive (like a car) and fabulous look for the price.
Suggested Improvements
Nissan needs to go back to the drawing board when it comes to transmissions on all of their vehicles!!!
Expensive at 45000 miles
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 7 | Fun-to-Drive: | 4 | Build Quality: | 3 |
| Comfort: | 7 | Interior Design: | 7 | Reliability: | 1 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
Review
In the last 6 months we have spent nearly$1700 on repairs to this Murano. It would have been more if we had paid the $900 for new motor mounts when the car had done 45,000 miles. The dealer got Nissan to pay for it after a lot of complaining from me. The car has done 51080 miles and 2 months ago we paid $900 for front struts and now $457 dollars for an electric window motor, 50$ for a rear stop light change and $43 for an inspection and oil change. The dealer claims the muffler needs replacing for another $914 and the car need brakes and rotors for another $600. If this is typical, at this mileage, of Nissan products, then they are producing lemons.
Favorite Features
Suggested Improvements
ripped off
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 3 | Fun-to-Drive: | 8 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 6 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Nissan Murano SL Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
Review
I had my murano for four years now and I had it. I considered all the problems it cost me...alternator, replaced battery TWICE, replaced door locks, replaced gas door, NOW they are telling me that I need to replace my engine mount because it's cracked. I drive my cars cautiously, and I need something reliable. Did I add that it left me stranded TWICE and I had to call for help. Thats when I had the alternator changed. Now that I have a family, I cannot be wasting my extra cash on repairs/replacement. I will NEVER purchase another Nissan. This will be my first and last.
Favorite Features
Bose system, and interior features
Suggested Improvements
5 years later
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 8 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Nissan Murano SE Fwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
Review
This car has been great for the past 5 years. It's been solid and has never needed any major fixes. It's always been very usable in the real world, from loading it full of items for transportation to driving around a full family of 5. With a black on black color with 22" black rims the car looks great even to this day. When driving around town it has always had solid pick up and the CVT is something that works seamlessly. You start to really love the gear changing without feeling it happening. In the last year or so I was rear ended. The car stood like a champ and only needed minor repairs to the muffler. Otherwise the bumper was perfectly fine. It's been a great car.
Favorite Features
CVT is seamless. The look is very sporty in black with black 22" rims. Using the navigation to get home from anywhere is great. Riding in the vehicle has always been quiet and relaxing. Rear seating reclining is great as is having the rear seats sitting higher up then front seats.
Suggested Improvements
A touch screen GPS. Also, a better stereo. My Bose has broken on me 5 times from using the random disc changer often. Not a lot to fix it has been great!
Love the vehicle
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Nissan Murano SL AWD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
Review
I have loved this SUV. I have owned the Quest van previously and also had good experiences with these cars. My vehicle has 80000 miles and has recently had the transmission replaced. Also had the gas cap issue.
Favorite Features
I like the leather seats, the Bose radio, the roomy interior and the handling. It drives so easily. We also have a Vue which I hate to drive. I also enjoy the heated seats.
Suggested Improvements
Fix the transmission problem it's costly to fix 4000$ plus, also I dislike the light on the turn handle I have turned the lights off more than once while turning. I do not like the chrome dash as it scratches to easily.
View Pricing for Other Years
- 2009 Nissan Murano
- 2007 Nissan Murano
- 2006 Nissan Murano
- 2005 Nissan Murano
- 2004 Nissan Murano
- 2003 Nissan Murano
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