India seems to have been bitten by the SUV-bug, especially with the automobile companies launching them in succession. Now, Nissan, the Japan-based automobile giant, has announced its plans of launching its latest premium sports utility vehicle (SUV), Murano, in India. With the latest unveiling, the car-manufacturer intends to tap into the potential offered by the growing auto market of the country.
Nissan Murano is expected to be presented before the Indian consumers, in early 2009. It is said to have the launch price of Rs 40 lakh. With this price range, the latest SUV will come in direct competition with 
premium brands, like Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Toyota Prado, BMW X3 and Mitsubishi Montero. The best part of Murano is that it combines the lustrous appearance of a coupé with the powerful engine of a sports-car.
premium brands, like Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Toyota Prado, BMW X3 and Mitsubishi Montero. The best part of Murano is that it combines the lustrous appearance of a coupé with the powerful engine of a sports-car.Nissan Motor India will handle the sales of the SUV in India. It will be available in three levels - the base - S, the mid-grade - SL and the top of the line - LE. Nissan Muranowill be an all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle, which will be powered by a 3.5 liter petrol V6 engine, at 265 horsepower. It will be able to zoom from stationary position, 0 mph, to the speed of 60mph, in less than 9 seconds.
The other impressive features of Nissan Murano include aluminum interior accents, leather seats, rain sensing wipers, memory seats and mood lighting. Apart from that, the SUV will also some equipped with an 11-speaker Bose unit, with 9.3 GB hard-disk storage and head-rest mounted LCD screens for passengers in the rear. All in all, the SUV offers performance and luxury - in a single car!
