Does Nissan Murano Have Third Row Seating for Your Family

The Nissan Murano does not offer third row seating. It is a two-row mid-size crossover SUV designed for five passengers. If you need seating for more than five, you may want to consider the Nissan Pathfinder or other three-row SUVs. The Murano excels in comfort, technology, and cargo space for smaller families.

The Nissan Murano is a popular mid-size crossover SUV. It turns heads with its sleek design and comfortable ride. Many families consider it for their daily driving needs. But one question comes up again and again: does the Nissan Murano have third row seating?

The short answer is no. The Murano is built as a two-row SUV. It comfortably seats five passengers. This makes it a great choice for small to medium-sized families. But if you need seating for seven or eight, the Murano is not the right fit.

In this article, we will explore everything about the Nissan Murano seating setup. We will look at its interior space, trim levels, and family-friendly features. We will also compare it to other SUVs that do offer third row seating. By the end, you will know exactly what the Murano offers and whether it fits your family’s needs.

Key Takeaways

• The Nissan Murano seats five passengers and does not come with a third row in any trim level.
• The Murano is a mid-size crossover SUV built for comfort, not maximum passenger capacity.
• Families needing seven or eight seats should look at the Nissan Pathfinder or similar three-row SUVs.
• The Murano still offers generous cargo space and family-friendly features despite lacking a third row.
• Trim levels affect features and comfort, but none add a third row to the Murano lineup.
• Regular maintenance like oil changes and battery replacements keeps your Murano running smoothly for years.

Understanding the Nissan Murano Seating Configuration

The Nissan Murano has always been a two-row SUV. From its first generation to the latest model, Nissan kept the seating layout simple. Five passengers is the maximum capacity. This design choice gives each passenger more room and comfort.

When you look at the Murano interior, you will notice the focus on space. The front seats are spacious and supportive. The second row offers plenty of legroom for adults. Even taller passengers will find comfort in the back seat. The seats are also well-cushioned for long drives.

First Row Seating

The front row of the Murano is designed for the driver and front passenger. Both seats offer power adjustments in most trims. The driver seat has lumbar support. The front passenger seat folds flat to help with cargo loading. Headroom is generous, so you will not feel cramped.

The center console between the front seats is well-designed. It includes storage compartments and cupholders. The steering wheel is leather-wrapped in higher trims. Controls for audio and climate are easy to reach. Everything feels polished and user-friendly.

Second Row Seating

The second row is where the Murano really shines. The seats are wide and comfortable. You can fit three adults across without feeling squeezed. The seat cushions are thick and supportive. Legroom is above average for this class of SUV.

The second row seats also fold down. This creates a flat cargo area for larger items. You can move groceries, luggage, or sports equipment with ease. The split-fold design lets you adjust the cargo space. You can keep the rear seats up and still have a large trunk.

Why the Nissan Murano Does Not Have a Third Row

Nissan made a deliberate choice with the Murano. They designed it as a stylish, comfortable crossover. The focus is on ride quality and luxury. Adding a third row would change the entire character of the vehicle.

A third row would reduce the cargo space significantly. It would also make the vehicle longer and harder to park. The Murano already has a compact footprint for its class. Adding a third row would make it less agile on the road.

Some buyers want a third row for extra seating. But many others prefer the open, airy feel of a two-row SUV. The Murano targets those buyers. It offers a refined driving experience without the bulk of a three-row design.

The Trade-Off: Comfort Over Capacity

By keeping the Murano as a five-seater, Nissan prioritized comfort. The ride is smooth and quiet. The cabin is well-insulated against road noise. Materials used on the dashboard and doors feel premium. This is not a vehicle that feels budget-built.

The lack of a third row also means better cargo capacity. Behind the second row, you get around 30 cubic feet of space. Fold the rear seats, and you get over 70 cubic feet. That is plenty for most family needs. Grocery trips, weekend getaways, and moving small items are all easy.

If you need more seating, Nissan offers other options. The Nissan Pathfinder is a three-row SUV that seats up to eight. You can learn more about the Pathfinder by checking out our article on the 2021 Nissan Pathfinder. The Pathfinder shares the same brand but serves a different purpose.

Nissan Murano Trim Levels and Features

The Murano comes in several trim levels. Each trim adds different features and upgrades. But none of them include a third row. Here is a breakdown of what each trim offers.

S Trim

The base S trim includes a 3.5-liter V6 engine. It produces 260 horsepower. The engine is smooth and responsive. You get a continuously variable transmission, or CVT. The S trim includes a 7-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. The cloth seats are comfortable, and the driver seat is power-adjustable.

SV Trim

The SV trim adds more convenience features. Leather-trimmed seats are available. The NissanProConnect system offers more connectivity options. A power liftgate is included. Blind spot monitoring is part of the safety package. The SV trim is a popular choice for families who want extra comfort without the top-tier price.

SL Trim

The SL trim brings luxury features. The Bose audio system delivers excellent sound quality. Heated and ventilated front seats keep everyone comfortable. A power sunroof opens the cabin to fresh air. The Intelligent Around View Monitor helps with parking. The SL trim makes the Murano feel like a premium vehicle.

Platinum Trim

The Platinum trim is the top-of-the-line model. It includes everything the SL offers plus more. Semi-aniline leather seats are ultra-soft. The ProPilot Assist system adds semi-autonomous driving features. A navigation system is built in. The Platinum trim is ideal for buyers who want the full Murano experience.

No matter which trim you choose, the seating capacity stays the same. Five passengers is the maximum across all Murano models. This is consistent with the vehicle’s design philosophy.

How the Murano Compares to Three-Row SUVs

When shopping for a family SUV, you will see many three-row options. How does the Murano stack up against these vehicles? Let us look at some key comparisons.

The Murano competes in the mid-size crossover class. Vehicles like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Ford Explorer offer third row seating. These SUVs seat seven or eight passengers. They are designed for larger families who need extra seating.

The Murano takes a different approach. Instead of trying to seat everyone, it focuses on the experience of the five passengers it does carry. The ride quality is superior. The interior is more refined. The driving dynamics feel more like a car than a truck-based SUV.

Murano vs. Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot is a popular three-row SUV. It seats up to eight passengers. The Pilot has more seating capacity than the Murano. But the Murano offers a more car-like driving feel. The Pilot is taller and more utilitarian. The Murano is sleeker and more stylish.

Murano vs. Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander also offers third row seating. It is a direct competitor in the mid-size SUV segment. The Highlander seats seven passengers in its base form. The Murano does not have this option. But the Murano’s interior is often praised for its upscale feel. The Highlander is more practical; the Murano is more refined.

Murano vs. Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer is a larger three-row SUV. It offers both second and third row flexibility. The Explorer has more cargo space when the third row is folded. The Murano is smaller but more efficient. The Explorer is better for big families. The Murano is better for those who value comfort and style.

Family-Friendly Features of the Nissan Murano

Even without a third row, the Murano is a family-friendly vehicle. Nissan packed it with features that make daily life easier. Here are some of the standout features for families.

Safety Features

The Murano comes with Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 system. This includes automatic emergency braking. Lane departure warning is standard. Blind spot monitoring helps you change lanes safely. Rear cross-traffic alert warns you when backing up. These features give parents peace of mind on the road.

Technology for the Whole Family

The infotainment system is easy to use. The 7-inch or 9-inch touchscreen is clear and responsive. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep everyone connected. There are multiple USB charging ports. Rear seat passengers can use the rear USB ports to charge devices. The Bose audio system makes long road trips more enjoyable.

Comfort Features

The Murano is designed for comfort. The front seats offer ventilation in higher trims. Heated seats keep you warm in cold weather. The dual-zone automatic climate control lets driver and passenger set different temperatures. The quiet cabin makes conversations easy even at highway speeds.

Cargo and Practicality

The Murano’s cargo area is impressive for its class. Behind the second row, you get about 30 cubic feet of space. Fold the rear seats, and you get over 70 cubic feet. A power liftgate makes loading groceries simple. The liftgate can be set to open to different heights.

Regular maintenance keeps the Murano running its best. For example, does it really matter what oil I put in my car? Yes, it does. Using the right oil protects the engine and extends its life. You can read more about this in our guide on engine oil. Taking care of your Murano ensures it serves your family for years.

Who Should Buy the Nissan Murano

The Nissan Murano is perfect for certain types of buyers. Understanding who it is for helps you decide if it is right for you.

Small to medium-sized families will love the Murano. It seats five comfortably. There is enough cargo space for weekend trips and everyday errands. The vehicle is easy to drive and park. It is not too big, and not too small.

Couples without children also enjoy the Murano. The interior is luxurious. The ride is smooth and quiet. The technology is modern and intuitive. It feels like a premium vehicle without the luxury price tag.

Buyers who value style will appreciate the Murano’s design. It looks elegant on the road. The interior is well-designed and tasteful. The Murano stands out from the crowd without being flashy.

However, large families who need more than five seats should look elsewhere. The Murano simply does not have a third row. In these cases, the Nissan Pathfinder or a similar three-row SUV is a better choice.

Also, if you are wondering about car insurance coverage for your Murano, you can check our article on car insurance and repairs. Understanding what your policy covers helps you make informed decisions about vehicle ownership.

Maintenance Tips for Your Nissan Murano

Keeping your Murano in great shape ensures it serves your family well. Here are some simple maintenance tips to follow.

• Change the oil regularly. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended schedule. Fresh oil keeps the engine running smoothly.
• Check the tire pressure monthly. Proper tire pressure improves fuel economy and safety.
• Replace the cabin air filter to keep the interior air clean. Some drivers wonder if places like Walmart replace car batteries or service their vehicles. Walmart does offer battery replacement services, which can be convenient.
• Inspect the brakes annually. Brake pads and rotors wear over time. Catching issues early prevents costly repairs.
• Keep the transmission fluid fresh. The Murano uses a CVT transmission. Clean fluid helps it shift smoothly.

These simple steps go a long way. A well-maintained Murano will provide reliable service for many years. It will continue to be a comfortable and stylish family vehicle.

Final Thoughts on the Nissan Murano and Third Row Seating

The Nissan Murano is an excellent mid-size crossover SUV. It offers comfort, style, and technology in a well-rounded package. But it does not have third row seating. This is a deliberate design choice by Nissan. The Murano is built for five passengers who value comfort and refinement.

If your family needs more than five seats, you should explore other options. The Nissan Pathfinder is a natural choice within the same brand. It offers three rows and seats up to eight. For families who only need five seats, the Murano is hard to beat.

Before making a decision, consider your daily needs. How many passengers do you typically carry? Do you need extra seating for carpooling? How much cargo space do you require? Answering these questions helps you find the right vehicle.

The Nissan Murano delivers where it counts. It offers a refined driving experience, a luxurious interior, and strong safety features. For small to medium-sized families, it is an excellent choice. Just remember that it is a five-seater through and through.

Take a test drive and see how the Murano feels. Sit in the front and back seats. Check the cargo space. You will quickly understand why the Murano remains a popular choice. It is a vehicle that balances style, comfort, and practicality in a way that few competitors can match.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you add a third row to a Nissan Murano?

No, the Nissan Murano is not designed with a third row. The vehicle’s structure and dimensions do not support adding a third row. Any attempt to do so would compromise safety and comfort. The Murano is built from the ground up as a two-row SUV.

How many passengers can the Nissan Murano seat?

The Nissan Murano seats five passengers. There are two seats in the front row and three seats in the second row. This seating configuration is standard across all trim levels. No Murano model offers more than five seats.

Is the Nissan Murano good for large families?

The Murano is great for small to medium-sized families. It offers plenty of comfort and features for five passengers. However, large families who regularly carry more than five people will find it limiting. In that case, a three-row SUV like the Nissan Pathfinder would be a better fit.

What is the cargo space of the Nissan Murano?

Behind the second row, the Murano offers about 30 cubic feet of cargo space. When you fold the rear seats down, the space increases to over 70 cubic feet. This is generous for a mid-size crossover SUV. You can easily fit luggage, groceries, and other items for a family outing.

Does the Nissan Murano have good fuel economy?

Yes, the Murano offers decent fuel economy for its class. The 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers a good balance of power and efficiency. City fuel economy is around 20 miles per gallon. Highway fuel economy is around 27 miles per gallon. These numbers are competitive among mid-size crossovers.

What other Nissan SUVs have third row seating?

The Nissan Pathfinder is the most popular Nissan SUV with a third row. It seats up to eight passengers. The Nissan Armada is another full-size SUV with three rows. Both offer significantly more seating than the Murano. If third row seating is a must, these two models are worth considering.