Hey everyone! So, you're wondering if the 2014 Nissan Murano is a solid choice for your next ride, huh? That's a totally legit question, and I'm here to break it down for ya. We're gonna dive deep into what makes this crossover tick, what's awesome about it, and, you know, the stuff that might make you pause. Whether you're a seasoned car buff or just need something reliable to get the kids to soccer practice, understanding the nitty-gritty of a specific model year is key. The 2014 Murano, specifically, sits in an interesting spot in Nissan's lineup. It's part of the second generation, which ran from 2008 to 2014, meaning the 2014 model is the last of its kind before a major redesign. This can be both good and bad – sometimes the kinks have been worked out, and other times, it's showing its age. Let's get into it and see if this stylish crossover still holds up today!

Performance and Drivetrain: How Does It Handle?

Alright, let's talk about what's under the hood of the 2014 Nissan Murano, because that's where the magic (or sometimes, the meh) happens. For this model year, Nissan pretty much stuck with what worked. You've got a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that pumps out a respectable 260 horsepower. Now, that's not going to win any drag races against a sports car, but for a mid-size crossover, it's got enough pep in its step to get you moving confidently. Merging onto the highway? No sweat. Hauling groceries or a weekend's worth of gear? It handles it like a champ. The power is sent to either the front wheels (FWD) or, if you opt for the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version, to all four wheels. The AWD system is particularly noteworthy if you live in an area with snow or slippery conditions – it's designed to help improve traction and stability, giving you a bit more peace of mind when the weather turns foul.

Now, the transmission is where things get a bit... Nissan-y. It's paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). CVTs have come a long way, and Nissan has been using them for ages. The idea is that they can keep the engine in its most efficient power band, theoretically leading to better fuel economy. In the 2014 Murano, the CVT generally delivers smooth acceleration, especially when you're cruising. However, some drivers find that the CVT can feel a bit disconnected or drone at higher RPMs, especially when you really stomp on the gas pedal. It's not necessarily bad, but it's a different driving experience compared to a traditional automatic with fixed gears. If you're used to the stepped shifts of a conventional transmission, you might notice the difference. Fuel economy figures for the 2014 Murano are decent, but not class-leading. Expect something in the ballpark of 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway for the FWD model, with the AWD version being slightly less. These numbers are okay for a V6-powered SUV of that era, but modern crossovers often do better. So, while the V6 engine offers capable performance, the CVT is a feature that potential buyers should definitely test drive to see if they like the feel. It's a good engine, but the transmission is the talking point.

Interior Comfort and Features: Is It a Nice Place to Be?

When you're thinking about whether a car is good, the interior is a huge part of the equation, right? Nobody wants to spend their commute or road trips in a cramped, uncomfortable cabin. So, how does the 2014 Nissan Murano fare in this department? Generally speaking, Nissan has always done a pretty solid job with comfort, and the Murano is no exception. The seats are often praised for being supportive and comfortable, especially the front seats. Nissan even boasts its "Zero Gravity" seat design, which is inspired by NASA research, aiming to reduce fatigue on long drives. Whether it actually feels like zero gravity is debatable, but they are undeniably comfortable seats for most folks. The cabin is also generally quiet, which is a big plus for a comfortable ride. You won't be battling road noise or wind noise excessively, allowing for easier conversations or enjoying your music.

Space-wise, the Murano is a mid-size crossover. This means it's bigger than a compact SUV but smaller than a full-size one. You'll find decent legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. It's not going to feel as cavernous as a larger SUV, but most adults will find it accommodating. The cargo space is also pretty good for its class. You've got enough room for your weekly shopping, luggage for a family vacation, or sports equipment. Folding down the rear seats further expands that cargo capacity, making it quite versatile for hauling bigger items. Now, let's talk about features. For 2014, the Murano came in a few trim levels, typically S, SV, SL, and LE (or Platinum). Standard features often included things like push-button start, automatic climate control, and a decent sound system. Higher trims could add features like leather upholstery, a power liftgate, a panoramic sunroof, heated and cooled front seats, a navigation system, and a premium Bose audio system. So, depending on the specific trim you're looking at, you can find a pretty well-equipped vehicle. The infotainment system might feel a bit dated by today's standards – think smaller screens, less intuitive interfaces compared to modern touchscreens. But for the essentials, it works. Overall, the interior of the 2014 Nissan Murano is a comfortable and well-appointed place to be, especially if you find a higher trim level with more creature comforts. It's definitely a strong point for this car.

Reliability and Potential Issues: What to Watch Out For

Okay, guys, let's get real about reliability. No car is perfect, and the 2014 Nissan Murano is no exception. Understanding common issues can save you a lot of headaches and money down the line. Historically, Nissan vehicles, especially those with CVTs, have had some reliability concerns. While the 2014 Murano isn't a disaster, there are a few things owners have reported.

The most commonly discussed potential issue revolves around the CVT. While Nissan has improved its CVTs over the years, some owners have experienced premature failure or transmission issues. Symptoms can include slipping, shuddering, or a complete loss of power. It's crucial to check the maintenance history for any signs of regular CVT fluid changes. If a CVT hasn't been serviced properly, it can lead to bigger problems. Regular fluid changes are key to the longevity of these transmissions.

Another area to keep an eye on is the vehicle's suspension and steering components. Some owners have reported premature wear on items like ball joints, control arms, and struts. This can manifest as clunking noises, uneven tire wear, or vague steering feel. While this isn't unique to the Murano, it's something to have inspected during a pre-purchase check.

Electrical issues can also pop up, though they seem less frequent. This could range from minor glitches with the infotainment system or power windows to more significant problems with sensors or the alternator. It's always a good idea to test all electronics thoroughly when looking at a used vehicle.

On the flip side, the V6 engine itself is generally considered pretty robust. Many owners have reported good long-term performance from the engine block. The body and paint have also held up reasonably well for many, though rust can always be a concern in harsher climates if the vehicle hasn't been properly cared for.

So, is the 2014 Nissan Murano reliable? It's a mixed bag. If you find one that has been meticulously maintained, especially with documented CVT service, you could have a reliable vehicle. However, the CVT is the biggest potential weak spot, and you should budget for the possibility of repairs or replacement down the line, or at least be extra diligent in your inspection. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended for any used car, and this is especially true for a vehicle with a CVT.

Safety Features: How Protected Are You?

Safety is paramount, guys, and Nissan equipped the 2014 Murano with a decent set of safety features for its time. When you're behind the wheel, knowing you and your passengers are protected can provide a lot of peace of mind. The 2014 Murano earned good marks in crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It generally received 'Good' ratings in IIHS tests, which was the highest possible score, indicating strong performance in areas like moderate overlap front, small overlap front (though this test was newer and evolving), side impact, and roof strength. NHTSA also gave it solid ratings, often earning four out of five stars overall.

Standard safety equipment on the 2014 Murano typically included a comprehensive suite of airbags, such as front-seat side-impact airbags, roof-mounted curtain side-impact airbags for all rows, and active head restraints. You also got standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability control (which is super important for helping prevent skids), and traction control. These electronic aids are crucial for maintaining control, especially in adverse driving conditions or emergency maneuvers.

Depending on the trim level, you could also find additional safety and convenience features that enhanced the driving experience and safety. Things like a rearview camera became more common, making parking and backing up much safer. Higher trims might have offered front and rear parking sensors, which are incredibly helpful in tight spots. Some models could also be equipped with Nissan's Intelligent Key system, which allows for keyless entry and push-button ignition, adding a layer of convenience that also indirectly contributes to safety by allowing you to keep your keys in your pocket.

While the 2014 Murano doesn't have the cutting-edge driver-assistance technologies that are standard on many new cars today (like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, or automatic emergency braking), the safety features it does have are robust and well-implemented. The structure of the vehicle itself is designed to absorb and dissipate crash energy effectively, and the electronic stability and traction control systems are excellent aids for preventing accidents in the first place. So, from a safety perspective, the 2014 Nissan Murano offers a good level of protection for its occupants, making it a solid choice if safety is a high priority.

Fuel Economy: Will It Break the Bank?

Let's talk about the elephant in the room for many car shoppers: fuel economy. Nobody wants to be constantly pumping gas, especially with fluctuating fuel prices. So, how does the 2014 Nissan Murano stack up in the MPG department? As we touched on briefly earlier, it's... adequate, but not exactly groundbreaking by today's standards. Remember, this vehicle is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, and that often means you're going to be using more fuel than a smaller four-cylinder engine found in many competing crossovers today.

The official EPA estimates for the 2014 Murano typically hovered around:

• FWD (Front-Wheel Drive): Approximately 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
• AWD (All-Wheel Drive): Slightly lower, usually around 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

Now, these are EPA estimates, and real-world mileage can vary significantly based on your driving habits, terrain, weather conditions, and how well the car has been maintained. If you do a lot of stop-and-go city driving, you'll likely see numbers closer to the lower end of those estimates. If you're doing mostly highway cruising, you might get closer to the higher end.

Compared to its direct competitors from 2014, the Murano was often in the middle of the pack. Some smaller, more fuel-efficient crossovers were hitting higher MPG figures, but for a vehicle with a V6 engine and a bit more power and size, these numbers were fairly typical. The CVT transmission does help somewhat by keeping the engine revs in a more efficient range during steady driving, but it can't overcome the inherent thirst of a larger displacement V6.

So, will the 2014 Nissan Murano break the bank at the gas pump? It depends on your budget and your typical driving routine. If you're used to driving a compact car or a hybrid, you'll definitely notice a difference. However, if you're coming from another V6 SUV or a larger vehicle, the fuel economy might be right in line with what you expect. It's not a gas-sipper, but it's not a total gas-guzzler either. It falls into the category of 'average' for its segment and era. Just be sure to factor this into your overall cost of ownership when considering this vehicle.

Pros and Cons: The Quick Rundown

Alright, let's wrap this up with a quick look at the good and the not-so-good of the 2014 Nissan Murano. This should help you make a final decision.

Pros:

• Comfortable Interior: Seriously, those seats are great for long drives. The cabin is also generally quiet and spacious enough for most families.
• Stylish Design: Even by today's standards, the second-generation Murano has a distinctive and attractive exterior design that stands out from the crowd.
• Capable V6 Engine: The 3.5-liter V6 provides ample power for daily driving, merging, and passing maneuvers. It's a proven engine.
• Good Safety Ratings: It performed well in crash tests and comes with a solid set of standard safety features.
• Available AWD: For those who need better traction in slippery conditions, the all-wheel-drive system is a valuable option.
• Versatile Cargo Space: The rear cargo area is practical, and the folding seats make it easy to haul larger items.

Cons:

• CVT Transmission Concerns: This is the big one. The CVT can be a weak point in terms of long-term reliability and can sometimes feel unrefined.
• Mediocre Fuel Economy: It's not terrible, but it won't win any awards for gas efficiency, especially compared to more modern crossovers.
• Aging Infotainment System: The tech might feel a bit dated compared to the large touchscreens and advanced connectivity of newer vehicles.
• Potential for Suspension/Steering Wear: As with many vehicles of this age and type, some components may need attention.

The Verdict: Is the 2014 Nissan Murano a Good Buy?

So, after all that, are we giving the 2014 Nissan Murano a thumbs-up or a thumbs-down? Here's the deal, guys: the 2014 Murano is a pretty good car, if you find the right one and go in with your eyes wide open. It shines in areas like comfort, style, and capable V6 performance. The interior is a genuinely pleasant place to spend time, and its safety scores are reassuring. It’s a crossover that offers a bit more flair than some of its more utilitarian competitors.

The main caveat, and you've heard it enough times, is the CVT transmission. If you can find a 2014 Murano with impeccable maintenance records, particularly evidence of regular CVT fluid changes, and you test drive it to ensure you're okay with how the transmission operates, then you might have a solid, stylish, and comfortable SUV on your hands for a reasonable price. However, if you're looking for bulletproof reliability with zero potential for major transmission headaches, or if you prioritize cutting-edge tech and stellar fuel economy, you might want to explore other options, possibly newer models or different brands.

Ultimately, the 2014 Nissan Murano offers a compelling package of comfort and style, but its reliability hinges heavily on maintenance history, especially concerning the CVT. Do your homework, get a pre-purchase inspection, and test drive it thoroughly. If it checks all your boxes, it could definitely be a good car for you!