Nissan has released a limited number of 2016 Murano hybrids on to the market, and didn’t even bother to tell the media about it.
We only know about it because the car is now available via Nissan’s online configurator tool, and filings to the EPA.
It’s not entirely clear why the company is bothering to put together just 600 Nissan Murano Hybrid SUVs. Car and Driver speculates that Nissan may have some spare hybrid drivetrains lying around after it discontinued the Pathfinder Hybrid and Infiniti QX70 Hybrid.
Just like the Pathfinder, the Murano Hybrid has a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder paired to a CVT, and an electric motor with 20hp (15kW) and 118 lb-ft (160Nm). Together the develop a total of 240hp (179kW).
Front wheel drive is standard, while AWD is US$1,600 option.
The Hybrid comes in both SL (US$40,950) and Platinum (US$43,000) trims, and is US$3,000 more expensive than the regular 3.5-liter V6 version.
The FWD Murano Hybrid is rated at 28mpg (8.4L/100km) city and 31mpg (7.6L/100km) highway, while the AWD Murano Hybrid is rated at 26mpg (9L/100km) city and 30mpg (7.8L/100km) highway.
A 3.5-liter V6 Murano in both FWD and AWD forms has an EPA mileage rating of 21mpg (11.2L/100km) city and 28mpg (8.4L/100km) highway.
Source: Car and Driver
