All-new Nissan Murano coming in 2013

The next-gen Nissan Murano is scheduled for 2013 and this is an impression of how it may look like. Mitsubishi is also working on the Pajero (aka Shogun) replacement, which is though not a direct competitor.

Minor changes for Nissan Murano in Japan

Nissan has announced some minor changes for the Murano in Japan, which will be released on February 3, with a slightly changed front grille, new 20" aluminium wheels and a new exterior colour.

In the interior, there are redesigned leather seats and new door trim. Also, driver's visibility has been enhanced by using white fonts on the combi meter. There is iPOD support and the new "Carwinds Navigation" system is available.

Prices start from 2,971,500 ¥ for the 2WD 250XL model and the top-spec 350XV FOUR model cots 4,469,850 ¥.

More photos after the jump!

Murano CrossCabriolet: Just some thoughts...

To be honest, I don't like SUVs and neither cabriolets, but somehow I do like the Murano CrossCabriolet (earlier post). For sure, it takes some balls to bring a car like that in production and although it's a niche market, I really hope that it will be successful. Sadly, this model won't really come in Europe and thus, I will never be able to see it in person...

For sure at the LA Auto Show, out of all Japanese manufacturers, Nissan had the best presense. A wicked prototype, the world's first AWD crossover convertible, my favourite sports car on sale at the moment, best coverage via Twitter... what else can someone ask...?!

Nissan has a great lineup in Japan and the US, while in Europe it's a different case. It tries to penetrate the market by discovering new segments, which is not a bad thing, but some of its "standard" models are rather disappointing (e.g. current Tiida and new Micra).

Unveiling of Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet!!!

Prices start at $46,390! Niche product you see...

Oh, by the way... this is the 100th post! I would like to thank every single reader :-)

[Sources: Twitter & Autoblog]

Nissan models to be unveiled at LA Auto Show

Nissan has already released a shot of the new Murano CrossCabriolet (earlier post) and we have already seen the new USDM Quest (R42H), which will share its platform with the new Elgrand (エルグランド) codenamed E52.

Of course, the updated GT-R (earlier post), along with the production version of Leaf, will be there but there is more... as Nissan will also display the Ellure Concept! The only thing known about this concept is the fact that it's a sedan and Nissan has described it this way in official press materials:

"Nissan's dramatic new-value sedan exploration, the Nissan Ellure, is designed to bring a higher level of progressive and distinctive expression to the segment – adding passion and emotion to traditional sedan efficiency."

I guess we will soon find out what's all about...

First official shot of Nissan's Murano CrossCabriolet

I really like the Nissan Murano, which is part of Nissan's Premium Factory range in Japan, but I never believed that a cabriolet version would go into production. It seemed so strange to me. Anyway, the new Murano CrossCabriolet is real and it will be presented at the Los Angeles Auto Show with sales starting in the US at the beginning of 2011. No plans for Europe yet and nothing has been said for Japan either.

According to Nissan, "The world’s first all-wheel drive crossover convertible, delivers the open-air exhilaration of a convertible while extending the versatility of the Murano in exciting new ways. With room for four adults, space for golf bags or luggage (even with the top down), and a premium level interior, the Murano CrossCabriolet represents a breakthrough in concept and design. Set to go on sale in early 2011."