Does Nissan Murano Have Third Row Seating Available

The Nissan Murano does not offer third row seating in any trim level. This midsize crossover SUV is designed for five passengers, with a focus on comfort, luxury, and cargo space for smaller families. If you need a three-row SUV, you will need to look at other Nissan models or competing brands.

Does the Nissan Murano have third row seating? This is one of the most common questions buyers ask when shopping for a midsize SUV. The short answer is no. The Nissan Murano is built as a two-row crossover with seating for five passengers. But the story does not end there. There is a lot to understand about why Nissan designed the Murano this way, and what it means for your buying decision.

The Nissan Murano has been a popular choice among families and commuters since its introduction. It combines a sleek design with a comfortable ride and modern technology. However, its seating configuration limits the number of passengers it can carry. Understanding the Murano seating capacity helps you make an informed choice.

In this article, we will explore every detail about the Nissan Murano third row seating situation. We will look at the interior dimensions, trim levels, and how the Murano compares to SUVs that do offer a third row. By the end, you will know exactly what to expect from this vehicle and whether it fits your needs.

Key Takeaways

• No Third Row: The Nissan Murano is a five-passenger vehicle and does not offer a third row of seating in any trim or model year.
• Designed for Comfort: The two-row layout gives passengers more legroom and cargo space compared to many three-row SUVs.
• Best for Small Families: The Murano is ideal for couples or small families who prioritize comfort over seating capacity.
• Strong Competitors: If you need a third row, consider the Toyota Highlander, Acura MDX, or Chevy Tahoe as alternatives.
• Interior Quality Is Top Notch: Despite lacking a third row, the Murano delivers a premium, well-appointed interior.
• Check Your Needs: Always assess your family size and cargo needs before choosing a two-row versus three-row SUV.

Understanding the Nissan Murano Seating Configuration

The Nissan Murano is a midsize crossover SUV. It sits between compact SUVs and full-size models in Nissan’s lineup. The vehicle is built on a car-based platform, which gives it a smooth ride but limits its overall size. This platform choice directly affects the Murano seating layout.

Every generation of the Murano has offered a two-row seating configuration. There has never been a factory-installed third row in any model year. The front cabin features two seats, and the rear cabin features a bench seat or split bench that comfortably fits three adults. This gives the Murano a total passenger capacity of five.

Why Nissan Chose a Two-Row Design

Nissan made a deliberate decision to keep the Murano as a two-row SUV. The reasoning comes down to several factors. First, a two-row design allows for a longer cargo area behind the rear seats. Second, it keeps the vehicle’s overall length more manageable for city driving and parking. Third, it reduces the vehicle’s weight, which helps with fuel economy.

The two-row layout also positions the Murano as a lifestyle SUV rather than a family hauler. It targets buyers who want comfort, style, and modern features more than raw seating capacity. This focus on luxury and refinement sets the Murano apart from bulkier three-row competitors.

Rear Seat Comfort and Space

Even without a third row, the Murano’s rear seat is surprisingly spacious. The legroom is generous for adults in the back. The seat cushions are well-padded, and the seatbacks recline slightly for added comfort on long drives. Headroom is also adequate for most passengers.

Here are some key rear seat features of the Nissan Murano:

• 60/40 split-fold rear seatbacks for flexible cargo configurations
• Center console with armrest and cupholders for rear passengers
• Ventilated rear seats available on higher trims
• USB charging ports for rear passengers
• Rear sunshades to reduce glare and heat

The Murano interior dimensions make it one of the more roomy five-passenger SUVs in its class. You will not feel cramped back there, even on longer road trips.

Nissan Murano Trim Levels and Features

The Nissan Murano is available in several trim levels. Each trim offers a different set of features, but none of them include a third row of seating. Let us look at the current trim lineup and what each one offers.

S Trim

The base S trim comes well-equipped for its price point. It includes a 3.5-liter V6 engine, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver-assistance features. The Murano price starts at an accessible level, making it a solid entry point into the midsize SUV market.

SV Trim

The SV trim adds leather-trimmed seats, a power liftgate, and upgraded audio. It also includes additional safety technology like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The SV is a popular choice for buyers who want extra comfort without stepping up to the top tier.

SL Trim

The SL trim brings even more luxury features. Think Bose audio, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The interior feels premium, and the ride quality remains smooth throughout. This trim is ideal for buyers who want the full Murano luxury experience.

Platinum Trim

The Platinum trim is the top-of-the-line model. It adds quilted leather seats, a navigation system, and advanced safety packages. The Platinum trim represents the pinnacle of what the Murano offers. It is a refined, comfortable vehicle for daily driving and weekend adventures alike.

How the Murano Compares to Three-Row SUVs

If you need a third row, the Murano is not the right choice. But how does it stack up against SUVs that do offer a third row? Let us compare the Murano to some popular competitors.

Murano vs Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is one of the most popular three-row SUVs on the market. It offers seating for up to eight passengers, depending on the configuration. The Highlander has a larger overall footprint and more cargo space when the third row is folded down. However, the rear seats in the third row are best suited for children or short trips.

Where the Murano wins is in rear passenger comfort and cargo space behind the second row. The Toyota Highlander’s third row takes away from both of these areas. If your family is small and you rarely need to carry more than five people, the Murano is often the better choice.

If you want to explore the Toyota Highlander’s third row options in more detail, check out our guide on whether all Toyota Highlanders have a third row.

Murano vs Chevy Tahoe

The Chevy Tahoe is a full-size SUV that offers three rows of seating and a powerful V8 engine. It is a much larger vehicle than the Murano. The Tahoe can tow significant loads and seat up to seven or eight passengers, depending on the configuration.

The Tahoe’s size comes with trade-offs. It is harder to park, gets lower fuel economy, and costs more than the Murano. For buyers who need the extra seating, the Tahoe is a strong option. To learn more about how long the Chevy Tahoe lasts, read our article on how many miles a Chevy Tahoe can last.

Murano vs Acura MDX

The Acura MDX is a luxury three-row SUV that competes with the Murano in terms of price and features. The MDX offers a turbocharged engine, a refined interior, and available captain’s chairs in the second row. It seats up to seven passengers across three rows.

The MDX is more premium than the Murano, but it also comes with a higher price tag. Both vehicles offer strong safety ratings and modern technology. The choice between them comes down to whether you need the third row and prefer a luxury badge.

Murano vs Acura MDX – Seating Comparison

Feature	Nissan Murano	Acura MDX
Seating Capacity	5 passengers	7 passengers
Rows	2 rows	3 rows
Engine	3.5L V6	3.0L Twin-Turbo V6
Cargo Space (behind 2nd row)	32.1 cu ft	16.2 cu ft (with 3rd row up)
Starting Price	~$39,000	~$53,000
Fuel Economy (combined)	~22 mpg	~21 mpg

The table above shows that the Murano offers more usable cargo space and better fuel economy. However, the Acura MDX provides significantly more seating capacity. Your family size and usage needs should guide your decision.

What the Murano Does Offer Instead

Since the Murano does not have a third row, Nissan compensated by making the vehicle exceptionally comfortable and feature-rich. The Murano interior quality is one of its strongest selling points.

Luxury Interior Materials

The Murano’s cabin uses high-quality materials throughout. Soft-touch surfaces, genuine leather, and wood-grain trim create an upscale atmosphere. The seats are supportive and comfortable for both short and long drives. Even the base trim feels well put together.

Advanced Technology

The Murano comes loaded with technology. The infotainment system features a large touchscreen display, wireless smartphone integration, and a premium audio system. Driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking are standard on most trims.

Cargo Space

Without a third row, the Murano’s cargo area is one of the largest in its class. Behind the rear seats, you get over 32 cubic feet of space. Fold down the rear seatbacks, and you can accommodate large items like furniture, luggage, or sports equipment.

This makes the Murano an excellent choice for buyers who frequently carry cargo or enjoy outdoor activities. The cargo versatility is a major advantage over three-row SUVs that sacrifice this space for additional seating.

Ride Quality and Performance

The Murano rides smoothly and quietly on the highway. The 3.5-liter V6 engine provides adequate power for daily driving and highway merging. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and road imperfections with ease. This is a vehicle that feels refined and composed on every type of road.

Who Should Buy the Nissan Murano

The Nissan Murano is best suited for specific types of buyers. Understanding who the Murano is for will help you decide if it is the right vehicle for you.

The Murano is ideal for couples and small families. If you regularly carry no more than four or five people, the Murano provides plenty of space and comfort. The vehicle is also great for buyers who prioritize fuel economy, interior quality, and modern technology over raw seating capacity.

On the other hand, the Murano is not the best choice for larger families who regularly need to transport six or more passengers. In those cases, a three-row SUV like the Toyota Highlander, Chevy Tahoe, or Acura MDX would be a better fit.

Here are some quick tips to help you decide:

• Count your regular passengers. If you never need more than five seats, the Murano works perfectly.
• Consider your cargo needs. The Murano offers excellent cargo space for a five-passenger SUV.
• Think about fuel costs. The Murano is more fuel-efficient than most three-row SUVs.
• Test drive before buying. Sit in the rear seats and assess the comfort for your family.
• Compare total ownership costs. The Murano typically has lower maintenance and fuel costs than larger three-row models.

Common Mistakes Buyers Make When Choosing the Murano

Many buyers assume the Murano has a third row because it is a midsize SUV. This is a common mistake that leads to disappointment. Always verify the seating configuration before visiting a dealership.

Another mistake is overlooking the cargo space advantage. Buyers who switch from a three-row SUV to the Murano often discover they have more usable cargo room than they expected. This is a pleasant surprise for many owners.

Some buyers also underestimate the Murano’s towing capacity. While the Murano is not a towing powerhouse, it can handle light trailers and boats. Check the specific towing limits for your model year before making assumptions.

Expert Insights on the Nissan Murano

Automotive experts consistently praise the Murano for its comfort, refinement, and value. The vehicle has earned strong ratings in owner satisfaction surveys. Critics highlight the quiet cabin, smooth ride, and upscale interior as standout qualities.

When evaluated against three-row competitors, the Murano holds its own in areas that matter most for daily driving. It may not seat as many people, but it delivers a superior experience for the passengers it does carry. The Murano review consensus is that it is one of the best five-passenger SUVs available.

Expert reviewers also note that the Murano’s resale value holds up well. The vehicle depreciates at a moderate rate compared to rivals. This means buyers can expect to retain a good portion of their investment if they decide to sell or trade in later.

Key Takeaways

• The Nissan Murano does not offer third row seating. It is a five-passenger, two-row crossover SUV.
• The interior is spacious and luxurious. The two-row design maximizes comfort and cargo space.
• Multiple trim levels are available. Each trim adds features, but none include a third row.
• Competitors like the Toyota Highlander and Acura MDX offer three-row seating. Compare options if you need more than five seats.
• The Murano is best for small families and couples who prioritize comfort and refinement over passenger capacity.
• Cargo space is excellent for a midsize SUV, thanks to the absence of a third row.
• Always verify seating capacity before purchasing to avoid confusion with larger SUVs.

Conclusion

The Nissan Murano third row seating question has a clear answer: it does not exist. The Murano is a beautifully designed two-row crossover that excels in comfort, technology, and interior quality. It is an excellent vehicle for small families, couples, and anyone who values a refined driving experience.

If your family needs more than five seats, you should explore other options. The Toyota Highlander, Chevy Tahoe, and Acura MDX all offer three-row configurations that can accommodate larger families. Each of these vehicles has its own strengths and weaknesses, so a thorough comparison is always worthwhile.

Ultimately, the best SUV is the one that fits your lifestyle. The Nissan Murano is a strong choice for those who do not need a third row. Its blend of comfort, style, and value makes it a compelling option in the crowded midsize SUV market. Take a test drive, assess your needs, and you will find the right vehicle for your family.

Before making any final decision, consider visiting your local Nissan dealership. Sit in the seats, explore the cargo area, and get a feel for how the Murano fits your daily life. The right vehicle is the one that makes you feel comfortable and confident every time you drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you add a third row to a Nissan Murano?

No, the Nissan Murano does not support a factory or dealer-installed third row. The vehicle’s structure, roofline, and interior design are not engineered to accommodate a third row of seats. Any attempt to retrofit a third row would be unsafe and not recommended.

What is the seating capacity of the Nissan Murano?

The Nissan Murano seats five passengers across two rows. The front row has two seats, and the rear row has a bench seat that comfortably accommodates three adults. This five-passenger layout has been consistent across all model years and trim levels.

How does the Murano’s cargo space compare to three-row SUVs?

The Murano offers more usable cargo space behind the rear seats than most three-row SUVs. With the rear seats up, you get approximately 32 cubic feet of cargo room. When the seats are folded down, the space expands significantly, making it ideal for hauling large items.

Is the Nissan Murano a good family car?

Yes, the Murano is an excellent choice for small families. It offers comfortable seating for five, a quiet and refined cabin, and advanced safety features. Families who rarely need more than five seats will find the Murano to be a practical and enjoyable vehicle.

What SUV should I consider if I need a third row?

If you need a third row, consider the Toyota Highlander, Acura MDX, Chevy Tahoe, or Kia Telluride. These SUVs offer three rows of seating and can accommodate six to eight passengers. Each has its own strengths in terms of comfort, power, and features.

Does the Nissan Murano have captain’s chairs in the second row?

Some trim levels and model years of the Nissan Murano offer captain’s chairs in the second row instead of a bench seat. Captain’s chairs provide extra comfort and easier access to the rear seats. Check the specific trim and model year for availability.