First look: 'Super evolution' for Murano

THE second-generation Nissan Murano has been released at the Los Angeles Motor Show.

Nissan has given its boldly-styled crossover wagon and comprehensive update that includes exterior revisions and an all-new platform.

The new car will go on sale in the US in January and in Europe late next year.

Despite slow sales of the existing Murano, Nissan Australia is likely to take the new model, but it may have to wait until late next year or early 2009.

The most obvious element of the upgrade is the new front end.

Nissan has moved away from the rounded nose of the original model for a more aggressive look with sleeker headlights and prominent V-shaped grille.

There are other minor changes, but the rest of the model generally carries over the existing Murano shape.

The company refers to the styling upgrade a “super evolution”.

Other changes include a different dashboard and centre console design. Nissan says it has improved the interior to give it a warmer and more luxurious look and feel.

New equipment now includes heated seats, rain-sensing wipers, rear-view camera and a rear hatch that opens and closes at the touch of a button.

The Murano continues to run the VQ family V6 shared across many models in the Nissan range, including the 350Z.

Under the Murano bonnet, the 3.5-litre engine delivers around 198kW and is still linked to the continuously-variable automatic transmission.

The Murano is based on the new Nissan Altima platform and should benefit from lighter suspension components and increased rigidity.

Nissan Australia spokesman, Jeff Fisher said the company would like to take the new Murano, but had not yet been briefed on the specifications and prices.

Sales of the current Murano are below expectations, running at an average of just 125 a month so far this year.

Mr Fisher admitted the new Murano was not doing as well as it could.

“It could always do better, as is the case with many other models from other manufacturers,” he said.

“But there is a niche market there.”