Nissan Murano base model gets the axe
Nissan is repositioning the 2027 Murano upmarket by trimming its lineup and eliminating the entry-level SV trim, effectively raising the entry price for its midsize two-row crossover. The 2027 Murano will now be offered in three distinct grades: SL, Dark Armor, and Platinum. All models come standard with all-wheel drive and share a uniform $1,545 destination fee.
The simplified lineup is a significant change for the Murano, which will now have a higher entry price due to the elimination of the SV trim. This change aligns the Murano with other Nissan models, such as the Pathfinder, which have also seen price increases, shifting the focus away from budget-friendly options and towards more premium offerings.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2027 Murano trim levels and pricing are as follows:
SL starts at $43,990, with a delivered price of $45,535;
Dark Armor starts at $46,990, with a delivered price of $48,535;
and Platinum starts at $49,790, with a delivered price of $51,335. These prices reflect the new positioning of the Murano as a near-luxury vehicle, with a focus on premium features and styling.
The elimination of the SV trim means that the SL becomes the new entry-level Murano, with a price that is roughly $2,320 higher than the outgoing base model. This increase in price will likely impact buyers who are looking for a more affordable option, potentially pricing them out of the market for a new Murano.
New Dark Armor Grade
The new Dark Armor grade is a style-focused mid-tier option that slots between the SL and Platinum trims. It features a sportier, blacked-out aesthetic, with 21-inch gloss-black aluminum alloy wheels, model-specific front and rear bumper treatments, and sportier side skirts. The Dark Armor grade is designed to appeal to buyers who prefer a more aggressive and stylish look, without the need for additional performance features.
Inside, the Dark Armor features a Graphite interior, which can be paired with six exterior paint choices, including Gun Metallic, Super Black, and Scarlet Ember, as well as Everest White and two-tone arrangements combining a Super Black roof with either Boulder Gray or Everest White. This range of color options allows buyers to customize the look of their Dark Armor Murano to suit their personal style.
Related: Sedans Make a Comeback with New Models
The Dark Armor grade is designed for buyers who prefer a sportier look over traditional chrome accents, and is positioned as a unique offering within the Murano lineup. By providing a distinct styling package, Nissan is able to appeal to a specific segment of buyers who are looking for a vehicle that stands out from the crowd.
Powertrain and Features
Every 2027 Murano utilizes a single powertrain configuration, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. This powertrain provides a balance of performance and efficiency, making it well-suited to the needs of most buyers.
Without mechanical variations between trims, buyer decisions come down almost entirely to exterior styling, cabin equipment, and overall budget. This simplifies the buying process, as buyers can focus on the features and styling that are most important to them, rather than worrying about different engine options or drivetrain configurations.
According to the report, the move to eliminate the SV trim and introduce the Dark Armor grade is part of Nissan’s effort to reposition the Murano as a near-luxury vehicle, competing with other higher-spec midsize rivals. By focusing on premium features and styling, Nissan is able to differentiate the Murano from more budget-friendly options, and appeal to buyers who are looking for a more upscale driving experience.
The Murano‘s new pricing and trim levels may appeal to buyers who are looking for a more premium vehicle, but may also price out some buyers who are looking for a more affordable option. As the automotive market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how buyers respond to the new Murano lineup, and whether the focus on premium features and styling will be enough to attract buyers who are willing to pay a higher price.
For more information on the 2027 Nissan Murano, visit the Nissan USA website for details on pricing, features, and availability. With its new trim levels and focus on premium features, the 2027 Murano is an exciting addition to the Nissan lineup, and is sure to appeal to buyers who are looking for a unique and stylish driving experience.
