I think it's possible, the current Murano 3.5 L engine with AWD makes close to the same numbers as the Xterra and Frontier 4.0 engine. The Jatco CVT technology has come a long way over the past decade, it's main benefit being much improved fuel efficiency, and I think simplicity of design versus a conventional 6-speed for example, which is what most if not all manufacturers will be forced to produce to comply with new stricter efficiency standards.
What will Nissan do with it's larger vehicles, develop 6-speed conventional autos in additon to the CVT for all other models? Or will it phase the CVT in to models like the Path and Xterra and Frontier? This could reduce the towing capacity of the these vehicles but the Murano is capable of 3500 lbs so maybe this is an acceptable trade-off?
If this change were technically possible, would it hurt the sales of these trucks, or perhaps increase sales because of the increase in efficiency while still maintaing a decent tow/haul capacity? Will Nissan be the first to ever provide a CVT trans in a light truck like the Frontier?
Thoughts an opinions?
