The 2018 Murano Platinum represents the pinnacle of Nissan's crossover lineup, blending bold design with refined luxury. This specific model year elevated the standard trim to a level of opulence that set it apart from the base and mid-level trims. Owners of this Platinum edition experienced a cabin crafted with premium materials and cutting-edge technology, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a seven-seater without compromise. Its presence on the road signaled a move upmarket for the Murano nameplate.
The Distinctive Styling of the 2018 Murano Platinum
Exterior styling for the 2018 Murano Platinum embraced a sophisticated and aggressive aesthetic. The signature LED daytime running lights were more intricate, giving the front grille a more prominent and upscale appearance. Matte black accents on the mirror caps and lower bumper added a touch of modern edge, while the 20-inch polished aluminum wheels commanded attention. These visual cues worked together to create a vehicle that looked distinctly higher-spec than its siblings.
Luxurious and Technologically Advanced Interior
Step inside, and the 2018 Murano Platinum's cabin reveals its premium positioning. The dashboard featured a soft-touch surface and contrasting stitching, immediately setting a tone of quality. The true centerpiece was the expansive 7.0-inch navigation screen, which sat within a beautifully crafted instrument cluster. This screen controlled not only the navigation but also the audio and climate settings, providing a centralized and intuitive command hub for the driver.
Premium Materials and Comfort Features
Material quality was exceptional in the Platinum trim, with genuine leather upholstery covering the seats and steering wheel. The front seats offered multi-way power adjustments and ventilated capabilities, ensuring comfort on long journeys. Heated front and rear seats were standard, a feature highly valued in various climates. The third-row seating, while best suited for smaller passengers, expanded the vehicle's practicality without sacrificing the premium feel of the first two rows.
Performance and Capability
Powering this luxurious crossover was a refined 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain mated seamlessly with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), delivering smooth acceleration and adequate fuel efficiency for its class. The ride quality was tuned to prioritize comfort, absorbing road imperfections with ease while maintaining a stable and planted feel during cornering. It was a performance setup designed for effortless daily driving and highway cruising.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2018 Murano Platinum came well-equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, many of which were exclusive to this top-tier model. Intelligent Around View® Monitor provided a 360-degree view of the vehicle's surroundings, significantly easing parking maneuvers. Advanced driver-assistance systems included Intelligent Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane Departure Warning, and Blind Spot Intervention, offering a high level of confidence and security on the road.
Technology and Infotainment
Infotainment was a strong suit for the Platinum, featuring the NissanConnect system with a responsive 7.0-inch touchscreen. This system offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing seamless connection to smartphones. Premium Bose audio system was standard, filling the cabin with rich, clear sound for music and navigation prompts. The inclusion of a USB charging port at every seat ensured that all passengers could keep their devices powered throughout the trip.
Market Position and Legacy
Positioned as the luxury flagship of the Murano lineup, the 2018 Platinum held its value exceptionally well in the pre-owned market. Its combination of striking looks, luxurious appointments, and advanced technology made it a desirable choice for buyers. Even years after its initial release, the 2018 Murano Platinum remains a benchmark in its segment, demonstrating Nissan's ability to create a truly complete and compelling luxury crossover.
