MODEL
Nissan Murano Safety
NHTSA safety across every Nissan Murano model year we cover.
Across the 8 model years of the Nissan Murano we cover (2019 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2021 at 96 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2025 at 87. 6 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Nissan Murano is a midsize two-row SUV that has carved out a distinct identity in a crowded segment by leaning into style and comfort over rugged utility. Aimed squarely at adult couples and small families who prioritize a refined, car-like driving experience, the Murano competes against stalwarts like the Ford Edge and Honda Passport. MotorCaliber covers the 2019 through 2025 model years.
The 2021 Nissan Murano achieved an Exceptional 96 out of 100 on our NHTSA Safety Index, marking its strongest performance across the 2019-2025 model years. This peak reflected five-star ratings in both frontal and side crash tests. The Murano’s four-star rollover rating is typical for a crossover body style; it does not indicate an engineering deficiency but rather the physics of the vehicle segment. Across six model years, the Murano has been subject to six recalls. This moderate recall count necessitates that prospective buyers confirm all open recalls have been addressed on any used vehicle, a check available via the free VIN lookup tool at NHTSA.gov. Owner complaints total 135 for the covered range, with 9 complaints alleging a crash and 7 alleging injuries. These unverified allegations warrant monitoring. No complaints in the dataset reported fires or fatalities, which is a significant finding. Based on the published data, the Murano is a competently safe midsize SUV. Its 2021 performance demonstrates a clear commitment to occupant protection within the platform.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Murano as one of the more stylish and comfort-focused entries in the midsize SUV segment, praising its upscale interior feel and smooth ride. Most professional assessments note that it trades some practicality and cargo versatility compared to boxier rivals, but consider it a strong choice for buyers who prioritize a relaxed, premium-leaning driving experience.
- The 2021 Murano achieved the highest NHTSA Safety Index in the covered range at 96 out of 100, landing in the Exceptional band, making it the standout model year from a pure safety-score perspective.
- Frontal and side crash protection reached five out of five stars in the best-performing years, but rollover protection consistently comes in at four out of five stars, a common result for tall crossover body styles that shoppers should factor in.
- Six recalls have been issued across the 2019-to-2025 model years. Anyone buying a used Murano should run the VIN through NHTSA.gov to confirm all recall repairs have been completed before finalizing the purchase.
- The 135 owner complaints on file include 9 reported crashes and 7 reported injuries. These are unverified allegations, but prospective buyers should review the complaint database for patterns relevant to specific model years they are considering.
Most-recalled year on record: 2025 Nissan Murano with 2 recalls.