Automotive
The Nissan Murano is entering 2027 with a reshuffled lineup that makes the stylish two-row SUV more expensive to get into, even though one of its remaining trims actually costs less than before. Nissan has dropped the entry-level SV model, which previously gave buyers the lowest-cost path into the Murano lineup. As a result, the SL becomes the new starting point at $45,535, pushing the minimum price of a Murano up by $2,320 compared with the 2026 model year. One notable side effect of the change is that every 2027 Murano now comes with all-wheel drive since the departed SV was the only version previously available with front-wheel drive.
There is a bit more to the pricing story because Nissan has lowered the cost of the Murano SL by $2,770 compared with last year. That sounds like a welcome adjustment until you look at what has disappeared from the standard equipment list. For 2027, the SL loses its panoramic sunroof, 10-speaker Bose audio system, and built-in navigation. Buyers who valued those features may find the lower trim price somewhat less impressive, especially since some of the upscale equipment helped reinforce the premium atmosphere Nissan introduced when it completely redesigned the Murano for 2025.
The bigger addition for 2027 is a new Dark Armor trim priced from $48,535. As the name suggests, Nissan gives this Murano a darker, more aggressive appearance through gloss-black 21-inch wheels, black Nissan badging, unique Dark Armor identification, and sportier-looking exterior trim. The cabin is offered exclusively with Graphite upholstery, while buyers can choose from six exterior finishes, including Gun Metallic, Super Black, Scarlet Ember, Everest White, and two available two-tone combinations pairing either Boulder Gray or Everest White with a Super Black roof.
Sitting at the top of the lineup is the 2027 Murano Platinum, which starts at $51,335, essentially holding steady with only a $10 reduction compared with the previous model year. Underneath the trim changes, the latest-generation Murano continues with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The combination marked a major mechanical change when the current Murano arrived, replacing the naturally aspirated V6 and continuously variable transmission found in the previous generation.
Nissan’s decision to simplify the Murano lineup comes after the redesigned SUV helped breathe new life into a nameplate that had been fading from buyers’ shopping lists. Sales jumped from 19,316 units in 2024 to 42,747 in 2025, showing just how much the new styling and more upscale cabin resonated with shoppers. Dropping the least expensive model may make the 2027 Murano a tougher sell for value-conscious buyers, but Nissan appears to be leaning further into the SUV’s more premium positioning. With standard all-wheel drive, a new Dark Armor appearance package, and a lineup now centered on higher trims, the Murano is becoming less of a budget-minded midsize crossover and more of a near-luxury alternative.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
