2003 Nissan Murano I (Z50) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 2003 Nissan Murano I generation ranges from approximately 1588 kg to 1845 kg (3503 lbs to 4067 lbs), depending on the trim and equipment level. Its maximum laden weight varies between 2204 kg and 2295 kg (4859 lbs to 5059 lbs). This weight range influences the vehicle’s fuel efficiency, acceleration, and handling characteristics. Heavier variants often offer more comfort and equipment but may sacrifice some agility. Nonetheless, the Murano I balances weight and power effectively to deliver a smooth and composed ride typical for a mid-size SUV.

The 2003 Nissan Murano I (Z50) offers a generous luggage capacity of 923 liters (approximately 32.6 cubic feet) with all seats in use, making it practical for everyday cargo and family trips. When the rear seats are folded down, this capacity significantly expands to 2005 liters (about 70.8 cubic feet), allowing for the transport of larger items, bulky luggage, or equipment. This feature highlights the Murano I’s versatile interior space, which suits both passenger comfort and flexible cargo hauling, making it ideal for various lifestyle needs.

The Nissan Murano I (Z50) from 2003 typically comes with 18-inch rims paired with tires sized 235/65 R18. The 18-inch wheels provide a balanced combination of style and functionality, contributing to a smooth ride over different road surfaces while supporting responsive handling. The 235 mm-wide tires offer good road grip and stability, enhancing safety and driving precision. This wheel and tire combination complements the SUV’s suspension setup, aiding in both on-road comfort and light off-road capability.

Generally, the Nissan Murano I (Z50) with a length of 4765 mm (187.6 inches), width of 1880 mm (74 inches), and height of 1690 mm (66.5 inches) will fit into most standard residential garages, which typically offer internal dimensions of around 6 meters (about 20 feet) length and 3 meters (about 10 feet) width. However, owners should consider extra clearance for opening doors comfortably and maneuvering inside the garage. If the garage is particularly narrow or has storage along the walls, some careful measurement is advised to ensure easy parking and accessibility.

As the first generation of the Nissan Murano, the Z50 model didn't have a direct predecessor in Nissan's lineup but competed against established SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Dimensionally, the Murano I stands out with its larger size: at 4765 mm (187.6 inches) in length, it is longer than many compact SUVs of the era, providing more interior space and cargo capacity. Its width at 1880 mm (74 inches) also exceeds typical compact SUV widths, positioning it in the mid-size SUV category. Compared to rivals, the Murano offered a more spacious and comfortable cabin along with a refined ride, appealing to buyers seeking SUV practicality blended with crossover comfort.

With an overall height of 1690 mm (66.5 inches), the Nissan Murano I (Z50) offers elevated seating and good visibility for the driver. Although specific ground clearance figures are not provided here, the Murano is designed more as a crossover SUV than a rugged off-roader, offering decent clearance for everyday driving and light off-road use such as gravel roads and mild trails. The height ensures that the vehicle maintains a commanding road presence and comfortably accommodates passengers while balancing aerodynamic efficiency and stability for highway cruising.

The Nissan Murano I (Z50) is designed primarily as a five-passenger SUV, which includes two front bucket seats and a rear bench seat. Its sizable exterior dimensions translate into a spacious cabin with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The width of 1880 mm (74 inches) allows for comfortable three-across seating in the rear, though best for two adults or three children. The carefully designed interior layout optimizes space, providing comfort for daily commutes as well as long journeys, with supportive seats and user-friendly controls enhancing overall driving enjoyment.

The Nissan Murano I (Z50) was equipped primarily with a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering smooth and responsive performance suitable for urban and highway driving. This V6 engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps optimize fuel efficiency and provides a seamless acceleration experience. Fuel economy for the Murano I typically ranged around 12-14 liters per 100 km (approximately 20-24 mpg US), depending on driving conditions and configuration. While not the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its class, the Murano offered a balanced mix of power and efficiency tailored to its size and weight.

Compared to contemporaries like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, or Ford Edge from the early 2000s, the Nissan Murano I stands out with its relatively large dimensions, including a length of 4765 mm (187.6 inches) and width of 1880 mm (74 inches). This gives the Murano a competitive edge in interior space, cargo capacity, and passenger comfort. Functionally, the Murano blends car-like handling with SUV versatility, distinguished by its smooth V6 engine and CVT drivetrain. While slightly heavier than some rivals at up to 1845 kg (4067 lbs), it offers a refined ride, spacious cabin, and large cargo areas, making it an attractive choice for families and lifestyle users seeking a balanced mid-size crossover.