2009 Nissan Murano

The first 2009 mid-sized SUV to receive an IIHS Top Safety Pick
The all-new Nissan Murano is rated a best overall performer in front, side and rear tests among midsize SUV models. To become a TOP SAFETY PICK, a vehicle must earn the highest rating ("Good") in all three tests. Performing well in the frontal test is based on a 40 mph frontal offset crash into a deformable barrier. Side testing is based on performance when the side of a vehicle is struck by a barrier moving at 31 mph, rating the effectiveness of standard front and rear head curtain airbags and standard front-seat mounted torso airbags. Rear tests simulate a collision of a stationary vehicle struck in the rear at 20 mph.








Nissan has two new ones this year -- the Rogue is on the smaller size to go up against models like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

Larger than the Rogue - but still not huge - is the redesigned 2009 Nissan Murano (18-23 mpg, $26,330 base price). Like the previous Murano, this new one emphasizes sporty handling to lure sedan buyers who need something bigger.

The term "Crossover SUV" is a broad one. It can include lots of different models -- luxury ones like the Lincoln MKX, or more sporty Crossovers, like the Nissan Murano. What they have in common is that while they may look like SUVs on the outside, underneath they're built more like cars.