The 2026 Nissan Murano Platinum AWD in Aurora Blue genuinely surprised me — in the best way possible. This is one of the first Nissans I’ve reviewed in quite some time, and I forgot just how much I enjoy this brand. Having personally owned a few Nissans in the past, slipping behind the wheel of the Murano felt like reconnecting with an old favorite — but one that has clearly evolved.
First, let’s talk about presence. In Aurora Blue, the Murano Platinum AWD looks fantastic on the road. The color highlights its sculpted lines and modern styling, giving it a refined yet athletic stance that stands out in a crowded small SUV segment.
On the road, it drives just as well as it looks. The ride is smooth and composed, soaking up bumps while still feeling controlled and confident. Steering feels precise, and the AWD system adds a sense of security whether you’re merging onto the highway or navigating wet pavement.
Inside is where it really won me over. I absolutely loved that Nissan kept a large physical volume knob on the dash. It sounds simple, but not having to dig through a touchscreen menu to adjust sound while driving makes a huge difference in everyday usability. It’s thoughtful design like that which sets this SUV apart.
My kids were especially impressed with the roomy back seat — plenty of legroom, comfortable seating, and enough space to avoid sibling squabbles. Overall, the 2026 Murano Platinum AWD has quickly become one of our favorite small SUVs we’ve tested in a long time.