One of the new cars on the Nissan stand at the
2006 British Motor Show is a sporty new concept SUV based on the Murano crossover called simply the Nissan Murano GT-C, fresh from its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The Murano GT-C features the Kuro Black paintwork from the
Nissan 350Z GT4 edition and the Murano's lights have been tinted dark to give the car a more menacing appearance. Complementing this is the fitting of massive polished 22-inch five-spoke alloys. Finishing off the extrovert appearance is a raised roof spoiler and four very prominent exhaust pipes. Inside, leather swathes most surfaces and the gear knob has been replaced by a bizarre looking item.
The Nissan Murano GT-C is more than just a styling exercise though, as Nissan has turbocharged the Murano's regular 3.5-litre V6, resulting in an increase in power from 231bhp to nearly 350bhp. The CVT transmission is retained, as is Nissan's ALL-MODE four-wheel drive system. There is a distinct possibility that Nissan will put aspects of the Murano GT-C into production too, as the company has admitted that road testing of this vehicle will take place after its display in London. Public reaction in London will play a large part in this happening.
Shane O' Donoghue - 20 Jul 2006