The Short-Lived Murano Hybrid
For most of its life, the Nissan Murano was offered with a V6 engine. While four-cylinders were also available, one would typically associate it with six, and it’s only in its current iteration that it opted for the downsized turbo route. At the moment, it’s not offered with a hybrid, either.
However, the midsize crossover was once available with an electrified powertrain. By short-lived, we mean it lasted only one model year and was sold in 2016. It was powered by a supercharged 2.5-liter engine with a compact motor and a lithium-ion battery pack, delivering 250 hp and 243 lb-ft. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions were made, but only about 600 to 650 made it to customers. For reference, the CrossCabriolet remained on the market for three years.
Drew Phillips
A Second Attempt?
Hybrid technology has moved on a lot since 2016. The same year the Murano Hybrid was axed, Nissan introduced e-Power, a series hybrid system that effectively turns any car into a range-extended electric vehicle. It was first applied to the Note subcompact hatchback, then eventually fitted to the Kicks and Serena minivan. Now, the Qashqai has it, too, as well as the X-Trail, the Elgrand luxury minivan, and soon, the next-generation Rogue.
However, a report from Japan suggests that another model will get the e-Power treatment. Creative Trend recently speculated that the Murano will be next, following a ‘cryptic post’ from a Nissan dealer. If so, it will be the first time technology has been used in a midsize crossover.
Nissan Dealer Suggests the JDM Murano Will Have Differences
Nissan Prince Kanagawa had tweeted that there have been many inquiries about the Murano. The dealer said it cannot reveal any information for now, but translated from Japanese, said, “But an absolutely insane story is going to unfold, so stay tuned.”
Creative Trend listed down possible scenarios for the Japanese-market Murano. The first is that it could be offered in right-hand drive down the line should it prove successful. The second is the chance for it to gain a Nismo version. But the website stressed that the most logical possibility is for the crossover to get the e-Power system.
Nearly every vehicle that Nissan sells in Japan is electrified, and if the company wants to boost the model’s chances in its home market, it must come in as a hybrid, or it risks staying glued to showroom floors. The company already has the hardware for it, and e-Power’s compact packaging allows it to be fitted to various models.
Nissan
A Murano e-Power for the World?
The Murano is exclusively built at Nissan’s Smyrna, Tennessee, assembly plant, and, if it benefits from e-Power tech, it should boost the model’s appeal worldwide. Because of its electrified powertrain, it should be able to enter markets where the 2.0-liter VTC would otherwise be hampered by stringent emissions regulations, namely in Europe, where Nissan has to regain its footing. The U.S. market could also benefit from an electrified Murano.
By exporting to more countries beyond Nissan, it can take advantage of economies of scale. Currently, the Murano is sold in limited markets, namely the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and China. Given that Nissan has to make the most of its production capacity, adding a hybrid might be the key to making the Murano a true global product to help boost volume and curb tariff costs.
Â
