Nissan's Murano offering for 2009 is up against tougher competition than it was when it strolled onto the scene in 2004.

Nissan South Africa senior product manager Fanie Smuts said the company responded to the challenge of successfully following up a "car which became the embodiment of a whole new segment" by enhancing and improving every facet of the customer’s appreciation of the original model.

"Bring it up to date in terms of its integrated technology systems without sacrificing its core appeal, which in the case of the Murano is its uniquely distinctive design," Smuts said.

Aerodynamics have been refined to reduce fuel consumption and to eliminate as many "turbulence hotspots" as possible for noise reduction.

A new body platform and revised geometry improve high-speed steering and smooth out the ride.

They haven't gone short on noise reduction material either. Wherever possible sound-absorbing materials have been used to block or mute sources of noise.

Nissan makes much noise about the "Intelligent All-Mode 4X4" drive train in the Murano and is obviously very proud of the technology, which it says provides "unbelievable traction in all conditions".

All this luxury, comfort and traction is pushed along by a 3.5-litre, petrol V6 engine that delivers 191kW of power and 336Nm torque.

Price

Expect to pay R488 000 for the Murano when it arrives in showrooms.

That includes a 90 000 km or 5 year service plan with an option to upgrade to a service and maintenance for the same period at the extra cost of R8800.

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