The 2025 Nissan Murano SL AWD represents a total reimagining of Nissan’s flagship two-row crossover, replacing the aging third-generation model with a sophisticated, tech-forward SUV. It features a 241-horsepower VC-Turbo engine, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a premium interior equipped with dual 12.3-inch displays and Google built-in.
The 2025 model year marked the beginning of the fourth generation for the Nissan Murano, a vehicle that had remained largely unchanged for nearly a decade. For drivers looking back from our current 2026 perspective, the 2025 Murano SL AWD stands out as the "sweet spot" in the lineup—balancing near-luxury appointments with a more accessible price point than the top-tier Platinum trim. This overview explores the technical specifications, interior refinements, and driving dynamics that define this significant update to the Nissan portfolio.
The Fourth Generation: A New Era for the Murano
When Nissan unveiled the 2025 Murano, it was clear that the "Social Lounge" concept of the previous generation had evolved into something more mature and structurally sound. The design language moved away from the sharp, aggressive creases of the 2010s toward a more fluid, "Energetic Elegance" aesthetic inspired by the Nissan Ariya EV.
The SL trim with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is particularly noteworthy because it addresses the primary criticisms of the outgoing model: the outdated infotainment system and the polarizing Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). By shifting to a conventional planetary gear transmission and a high-tech turbocharged engine, Nissan successfully repositioned the Murano as a legitimate competitor to the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Honda Passport.
Powertrain and Performance: The VC-Turbo and 9-Speed Transition
The most significant mechanical change in the 2025 Nissan Murano SL AWD is the retirement of the long-standing 3.5-liter V6 engine. In its place lies the 2.0-liter Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) four-cylinder engine.
Understanding Variable Compression Technology
The VC-Turbo is a marvel of internal combustion engineering. It can physically change its compression ratio on the fly—ranging from 8:1 for high-performance driving to 14:1 for maximum fuel efficiency. An advanced multi-link system continuously raises or lowers the pistons' reach, allowing the engine to provide the power of a larger engine when requested while maintaining the footprint of a compact four-cylinder.
In the 2025 Murano SL AWD, this engine produces 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. While this is a slight decrease in horsepower compared to the old V6 (260 hp), the 20 lb-ft increase in torque is felt immediately in city driving and highway merging.
The Nine-Speed Automatic Transmission
Replacing the Xtronic CVT with a nine-speed automatic transmission was perhaps the most celebrated update for the 2025 model. This transmission provides a more traditional, tactile driving experience with crisp gear changes. It allows for better utilization of the VC-Turbo’s torque curve and improves the vehicle’s towing feel, though the Murano remains rated for a modest 1,500 pounds.
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
The "AWD" in the Murano SL AWD refers to Nissan’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system. This system defaults to front-wheel drive to save fuel but can instantly transfer power to the rear wheels if sensors detect a loss of traction. For the 2025 model, the system integration with the vehicle’s dynamic control sensors was sharpened, providing better stability in inclement weather and more confident cornering on dry pavement.
Interior Craftsmanship: The "Murano Glass" Influence
The interior of the 2025 Murano SL AWD is where the vehicle truly earns its "boutique" reputation. Nissan designers looked to traditional Japanese craftsmanship and the namesake Murano glass for inspiration, resulting in a cabin that feels significantly more upscale than its predecessors.
Seating and Ergonomics
Nissan continues to use its Zero Gravity seats, which are engineered to reduce fatigue by mimicking the neutral posture of astronauts in weightlessness. In the SL trim, these seats are upholstered in leather-appointed surfaces. Both the driver and front passenger enjoy heated seats, while the SL also introduces a heated steering wheel as standard equipment.
The layout of the dashboard is dominated by a "horizontal" theme, which makes the cabin feel wider and more airy. The use of soft-touch materials on the doors, dashboard, and center console elevates the tactile experience, moving the Murano closer to the luxury territory occupied by Nissan’s Infiniti brand.
Capacitive Touch Controls
One of the more controversial changes in the 2025 redesign was the move to capacitive touch climate controls. While sleek and modern in appearance, these controls lack physical buttons. However, Nissan included haptic feedback to help drivers navigate the settings without taking their eyes off the road—a compromise that has received mixed reviews from long-term owners.
Technology and Connectivity: The SL Trim Advantage
The 2025 Murano SL AWD represents a massive leap forward in digital integration. The centerpiece of the cockpit is a dual-screen setup consisting of two 12.3-inch displays housed under a single pane of glass.
Google Built-in and Infotainment
Unlike previous Nissans that relied on proprietary software, the 2025 Murano SL features Google built-in. This integration includes:
- Google Maps: Real-time traffic data and seamless navigation directly on the vehicle's primary screen.
- Google Assistant: Voice-activated control for climate, media, and navigation.
- Google Play Store: The ability to download apps like Spotify or Pocket Casts directly to the vehicle.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are also standard, ensuring that users who prefer their smartphone interfaces are well-supported.
Audio Experience
The SL trim comes standard with a Bose 10-speaker Premium Audio System. This system was tuned specifically for the Murano’s cabin geometry and includes a dual-driver woofer to provide deep, resonant bass without compromising cargo space. Combined with enhanced active noise cancellation and acoustic glass, the Murano SL AWD provides one of the quietest highway cruising experiences in its class.
Safety and Driver Assistance: ProPILOT Assist 1.1
Safety has always been a pillar of the Murano's identity, and the 2025 model expands this with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 and updated ProPILOT Assist technology.
ProPILOT Assist 1.1
The SL trim is equipped with ProPILOT Assist 1.1. This system combines Intelligent Cruise Control with Steering Assist to help the vehicle stay centered in its lane and maintain a set distance from the car ahead. What makes version 1.1 distinct is its integration with the navigation system. Using data from Google Maps, the vehicle can proactively slow down for upcoming curves, highway exits, or junctions, making the semi-autonomous driving experience much smoother.
Standard Safety Features
Every 2025 Murano SL AWD includes:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: Monitors the road and can apply brakes to avoid or mitigate a collision.
- Blind Spot Warning and Intervention: Not only alerts the driver to vehicles in the blind spot but can also apply slight braking to help move the vehicle back into the lane.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Vital for backing out of busy parking spots.
- Intelligent Around View Monitor: A 360-degree camera system that makes parking this mid-sized SUV significantly easier.
Detailed Specifications and Comparison
To understand where the SL trim sits in the 2025 lineup, it is helpful to compare it against the base SV and the flagship Platinum trims.
| Feature | Murano SV (Base) | Murano SL (Mid-Grade) | Murano Platinum (Flagship) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L VC-Turbo | 2.0L VC-Turbo | 2.0L VC-Turbo |
| Transmission | 9-Speed Automatic | 9-Speed Automatic | 9-Speed Automatic |
| Wheel Size | 18-inch Aluminum-Alloy | 20-inch Aluminum-Alloy | 21-inch Aluminum-Alloy |
| Seat Material | Prima-Tex (Synthetic) | Leather-Appointed | Semi-Aniline Leather |
| Audio System | 6-Speaker Standard | Bose 10-Speaker | Bose 10-Speaker |
| Sunroof | Optional | Dual Panel Panoramic | Dual Panel Panoramic |
| Ambient Lighting | Standard | 64-Color LED | 64-Color LED |
| Camera System | RearView Monitor | 360-Degree Around View | 360-Degree + Invisible Hood View |
The SL trim is often viewed as the best value because it includes the high-end Bose audio, the 360-degree camera, and the leather interior—features that define the "premium" experience—without the higher price tag associated with the Platinum's 21-inch wheels and massaged seats.
Ownership Considerations: Fuel Economy and Maintenance
In 2026, we have a better understanding of the long-term efficiency of the 2.0L VC-Turbo in the Murano. Initial EPA estimates for the 2025 Murano SL AWD suggested a combined fuel economy of approximately 23-24 MPG. In real-world mixed driving, owners typically see 21 MPG in the city and up to 28 MPG on the highway.
Maintenance and Reliability
The transition to a nine-speed automatic has simplified the maintenance schedule compared to the high-maintenance fluid requirements of the older CVTs. However, the VC-Turbo engine is a complex piece of machinery. It requires high-quality synthetic oil and benefits from strict adherence to the manufacturer's service intervals to ensure the variable compression linkage remains lubricated and functional.
One area for potential buyers to monitor is the capacitive touch interface. While the hardware has proven durable over the first year of ownership, keeping the gloss-black panels clean requires frequent attention, as they are prone to fingerprints and dust accumulation.
Competitive Landscape: How the Murano SL AWD Stacks Up
The 2025 Nissan Murano SL AWD competes in a crowded "Premium Mid-Size" segment. Its primary rivals include the Honda Passport, which offers more rugged capability and cargo space, and the Toyota Crown Signia, which focuses on hybrid efficiency.
Where the Murano wins is in ride comfort and interior design. It feels more "special" inside than a base-model Toyota or Honda. It targets the buyer who doesn't need three rows of seats and doesn't plan on heavy off-roading, but who wants a quiet, tech-rich sanctuary for their daily commute.
Compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Murano offers better standard safety tech and a more modern infotainment system through Google built-in, though it lacks the Jeep's towing capacity and legendary 4x4 systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2025 Nissan Murano SL AWD require premium fuel?
While the 2.0L VC-Turbo engine can run on regular 87-octane unleaded gasoline, Nissan recommends using 91-octane premium fuel to achieve the advertised 241 horsepower and maximum torque. Using lower octane fuel may result in slightly reduced performance and efficiency, as the engine's computer will adjust the compression ratio and timing to prevent knocking.
How much cargo space is in the 2025 Murano?
The 2025 Murano offers approximately 32.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row. When the 60/40 split rear seats are folded flat, the capacity expands to roughly 63.5 cubic feet. While this is slightly less than some boxier competitors like the Honda Passport, the Murano’s space is wide and easy to access via the motion-activated power liftgate that comes standard on the SL trim.
Is the ProPILOT Assist 1.1 a fully autonomous driving system?
No, ProPILOT Assist 1.1 is a hands-on driver assistance system. The driver must keep their hands on the steering wheel and remain attentive at all times. The system is designed to reduce the workload of highway driving by managing speed and steering input, but it cannot navigate intersections, stop at red lights, or perform complex maneuvers without driver intervention.
What are the main differences between the 2024 and 2025 Murano?
The differences are foundational. The 2025 model is a complete redesign. Key changes include the move from a 3.5L V6 to a 2.0L VC-Turbo, the replacement of the CVT with a 9-speed automatic, the introduction of a dual 12.3-inch screen setup with Google built-in, and a completely new exterior body style. The 2024 model was the last of the third generation, which dated back to 2015.
Practical Recommendation
If you are currently evaluating a 2025 Nissan Murano SL AWD in the pre-owned or remaining new-inventory market of 2026, it remains a strong choice for those prioritizing comfort and technology over raw utility. The SL trim provides the most balanced feature set, offering the luxury of the Bose sound system and leather upholstery without the price premium of the Platinum.
For the best experience, ensure the vehicle has received all relevant software updates for the Google built-in system, as early 2025 models occasionally required patches to optimize the interface speed. If you value a serene highway ride and a modern, minimalist interior, the 2025 Murano SL AWD is one of the most refined choices in the two-row crossover segment.
