SpeedSUVs.com — The Nissan Murano is undergoing a significant restructuring for the 2027 model year, altering how buyers will approach this mid-size two-row SUV. Following a highly successful overhaul for the 2025 model year—which saw sales climb dramatically from a quiet 19,316 units in 2024 to an impressive 42,747 units in 2025—Nissan is looking to capitalize on this momentum. However, the updates for 2027 bring a mix of pricing shifts, trim eliminations, and feature adjustments that potential buyers must carefully weigh.
A Higher Price of Entry with the Loss of the SV Trim
The most notable change for the 2027 Nissan Murano lineup is the complete elimination of the entry-level SV trim. For the 2026 model year, the SV trim served as the gateway to Murano ownership with a starting price of $43,215. With this trim now gone, the entry point for the Murano has climbed to $45,535. This represents a net increase of $2,320 just to get behind the wheel of a base-model Murano, which may affect budget-conscious shoppers looking for a premium mid-size crossover.
Furthermore, the departure of the SV trim has mechanical implications. The SV was the only trim level in the Murano lineup that offered a front-wheel-drive layout. By dropping this trim, Nissan has made all-wheel drive (AWD) a standard feature across the entire 2027 Murano range. While this standardizes capability, it eliminates choice for buyers who live in milder climates and prefer the simplicity or potential efficiency of a front-wheel-drive setup.
The Restructured SL Trim: Price Cuts with Feature Trade-Offs
With the SV trim retired, the SL trim now serves as the entry-level variant for the 2027 Nissan Murano. To accommodate this new position, Nissan has slashed the price of the SL trim to $45,535, which is $2,770 less than last year’s SL model. On paper, this price reduction looks highly appealing, but a closer look reveals that the discount comes at the expense of several premium features.
To achieve this lower price point, Nissan has removed several key components from the SL trim’s standard equipment list. For 2027, the SL model no longer features a panoramic sunroof, the premium 10-speaker Bose stereo system, or the convenient in-dash navigation system. Buyers looking at the SL trim must decide if the $2,770 savings adequately compensates for the loss of these luxury-oriented features.
Introducing the New Dark Armor Trim
For buyers seeking a sportier aesthetic, Nissan has introduced a brand-new Dark Armor trim for 2027, starting at $48,535. This variant is designed to give the Murano a bolder, more aggressive presence on the road. The Dark Armor model comes equipped with eye-catching gloss-black 21-inch wheels and sportier designs for both the front and rear bumpers, as well as the side skirts. Gloss-black Nissan badges and unique Dark Armor badges on the front door panels complete the exterior look.
Inside, the Dark Armor trim is offered exclusively with a Graphite interior upholstery. To complement this dark cabin, buyers can choose from six distinct exterior color options. These include Gun Metallic, Super Black, Scarlet Ember, Everest White, Boulder Gray with a Super Black roof, and Everest White with a Super Black roof.
Platinum Trim and Availability
At the very top of the lineup, the premium Murano Platinum remains the flagship choice. For 2027, the Platinum trim is priced at $51,335, representing a minor price decrease of $10 compared to the previous model year. Nissan has not yet specified the exact date when the updated Murano will begin arriving at dealerships, but the vehicle is expected to go on sale sometime this fall.
Conclusion: A Balanced Verdict
The 2027 Nissan Murano presents a clear trade-off for consumers. On the positive side, standardizing all-wheel drive simplifies the buying process, and the introduction of the Dark Armor trim adds a stylish, sporty option to the lineup. Additionally, the top-tier Platinum trim maintains its premium positioning with a stable price. However, the increased barrier to entry due to the loss of the SV trim and the deletion of key features like the Bose audio system and panoramic sunroof on the SL trim are notable drawbacks. Buyers must carefully evaluate whether these restructured packages align with their budget and desired comfort levels.
