Nissan launches Murano diesel in Europe

Nissan Murano diesel - Click above for high-res image gallery

In an attempt to better compete on the continent, Nissan has just launched a diesel engine for the European-market Murano crossover. Unlike Nissan’s upmarket Infiniti division, which just recently launched several models powered by a new Nissan-Renault 3.0-liter V6 diesel, the Murano uses a 2.5-liter inline-four. The engine is an updated version of Nissan’s existing four-cylinder diesel with 187 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque.

The common rail injection system has been upgraded from a 1,800 BAR system to 2,000 BAR. The variable vane turbocharger now uses an electric actuation system for the vanes in place of the hydraulic setup. All that torque is sent to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Nissan will announce the fuel consumption and emissions closer to the September on sale date. American Murano buyers will have to settle for the very nice, but no doubt much thirstier, 3.5-liter gas V6.

Gallery: Nissan Murano Diesel