09 Murano 20" vs. 18" wheels

[ron-svmale]

Hey everyone,

I originally joined the NICO Club for Rogue info, and I was seriously considering buying an AWD leather prem Rogue. I’ve posted several topics on the Rogue forum in the past.However, now after checking out the sweet looking '09 Murano and all it's great features that the Rogue just doesn't have, I am now interested in the new Murano LE with AWD and black leather in Platinum Graphite (great looking grey color).

After checking the new Murano out, I love the extra features it has over the Rogue, such as push button start ignition, power lift tailgate, rain sensing wipers, 20” wheels, dual zone auto temp. control (ATC) front & rear heated seats, avail. Nav. System, rear view monitor (backup camera), memory seats, and lastly more front leg room (I’m 6’1”) than the Rogue. With all these extras that is not available on the Rogue, I’m sold on this new Murano.

Has anyone else checked the new Murano out.

I have a concern with the LE having the std. 20" wheels. I’m really impressed with the larger wheels – gives it a better stance. Does anyone know if the ride/handling will be rougher than having 18" inchers? If so, I may need to consider the SE model instead and add the other LE options to it. BTW, I've never owned an SUV/CUV before, so this is a helluva shopping experience for me.Any info on the large wheels will be greatly appreciated.

Ron

[TheRone]

Ron:

According to the Edmunds.com review, the 20's do not degrade the ride. Here is a link to the review:http://www.edmunds.com/nissan/....html

Tom

[metzms]

I drove both last night and didn't feel any difference. For the price you can't go wrong with the new Murano. You color choice is the same one I would want.

[ron-svmale]

Well that's terrific to hear...I can have the 20s and still be driving in style.

Thanks for the info. I am definitely going for the LE...now I just have to see if my dealer (either at the factory or the dealer's service dept .) can replace the LE’s interior Wood-Tone Trim (faux wood) with the aluminum trim found in the SL's interior. I read somewhere online that the Murano LE’s interior Wood-Tone Trim (faux wood) can be swapped out with the aluminum trim. I really do want the LE, but not crazy about the LE’s interior layout. Black leather just doesn’t look good with wood tone (IMHO). I’m just not a fan of faux wood trimmed interior. The wood trim on the LE model is not a show-stopper, but I would prefer the aluminum trim instead.

Ron

[metzms]

I drove the LE in the evening, so I didn't notice the dark wood with the black interior. I think the silver trim would look nice with the black. I am going back on Saturday to look at the different colors.