Nissan has launched the new Murano in South Africa.

The 2012 Murano sports a new front grille, new bumpers and a new LED tail light design. The shapelier body rides on a more modern 18-inch alloy titanium-finish wheel design, while the cabin is further enhanced by the latest in-car technology.

"It's a more futuristic, more cohesive, and more downright attractive shape than ever with these exterior adjustments," comments Nancy Reddy, Nissan SA Product Manager for Nissan crossover vehicles. "The new sleeker design fits in with our forward-looking ethos that drives the Nissan family today, while inside the experience has been raised to a new level by the standard fitment of high-tech infotainment and luxury features."

The cabin is now naturally lit through a new double panel moonroof complete with power retractable sun shades and tinted glass for UV protection, and a tilting front panel to let in fresh air. The leather seats feature new design patterns and a more upmarket feel, and the centre console now features updated finishes and colour-coding. The dials have white backlight illumination. An Intelligent Key means that the driver never need remove the key from their pocket to access and start the vehicle. The seats, windows and mirrors are all electrically-operated.

Also entirely electrically powered is the tailgate, which the driver can open and close via buttons on the Intelligent Key, the dashboard or the tailgate itself. The rear seats are able to fold completely flat, creating a generous cargo area - with automatic up- and down-folding. Rear- and side-view parking cameras are also fitted, ensuring easy and confident parking.

New to the standard specification for the Murano is the Nissan Premium Connect infotainment system, featuring a 40GB Hard Disk Drive Satnav system and 9.3GB HDD Music Server, all controlled via a touchscreen display. This latest-generation electronic system includes full Bluetooth capabilities, USB and iPod connectivity for digital music sources, and DVD playback functionality. All of this is integrated with the premium 11-speaker BOSE audio system the Murano is equipped with as standard.

Johann Kleynhans, Director of Sales, Marketing and Aftersales at Nissan SA, adds: "Inside, the Murano is now more competitive thanks to the incorporation of improved quality materials and new technology like Nissan Premium Connect. What's more, we're very proud of the fact that all of this luxury equipment comes standard on all new Murano and not as a costly optional extra."

The Murano still makes use of the 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine which powered the 350Z sports coupé. Producing 191kW of power and 336Nm of torque, performance credentials are suitably athletic. The 0-100km/h dash is achieved in 8.0-seconds and top speed is over 200km/h.

This characterful engine propels the Murano emphatically through an X-TRONIC Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) revised with new, advanced shift control logic. A six-speed "manual" gearshift mode is also available on this transmission, which in turn drives the Intelligent full-time 4WD system (ALL MODE 4X4-i) incorporating Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS) to maintain traction and stability in all conditions.

Adds Reddy: "The powerful V6 under the bonnet, the astounding traction of the 4X4-i drive train and the precise control of the fully independent suspension come together to create an unforgettable performance experience, yet the lashings of luxury equipment and sheer quality of cabin fitments make the experience of driving in a Murano enjoyable for everyone."

The cost? Some R545 600, which includes a five-year or 90 000km service plan.