MODEL
Nissan Murano
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.
From a safety standpoint, the Nissan Murano presents a generally reassuring picture across the 2019-to-2025 span we cover. The model reached its high-water mark with a 96 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index in 2021, a score that falls squarely in the Exceptional band. Crash-test geometry backs that up: the best-performing years earned five stars in both the frontal and side disciplines, with rollover coming in at a solid four out of five, which is a typical outcome for a taller, crossover-style body. That rollover result is not a black mark; it reflects the physics of the segment rather than any specific engineering shortfall. Over six model years, Nissan has issued six recalls on the Murano. That is a moderate recall count, and shoppers should verify that any used example has had all open recalls completed before purchase using the free VIN lookup tool at NHTSA.gov. Owner complaints total 135 across the covered range, with 9 involving reported crashes and 7 involving reported injuries. These are unverified allegations, but the complaint volume is worth monitoring. No fire-related or fatal complaints appear in the dataset, which is a meaningful data point. On balance, the Murano is a competently safe midsize SUV, with its 2021 peak performance demonstrating that Nissan has invested meaningfully in the platform's occupant protection.
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.