At long last, Nissan has announced the addition of a diesel-powered version of the Murano to its crossover line-up.

Come September, the second generation SUV will be available, with a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine that will produce 187bhp and 332lb.ft of torque.

It's a welcome addition to a sector dominated by diesels.

The new model will have a six-speed automatic gearbox, while a greater degree of lock-up and engine responsiveness will optimise torque and fuel economy in comparison to the CVT-equipped petrol alternative.

The Murano is as ever crammed with standard equipment standard, namely a full leather interior, satellite navigation with colour seven-inch screen, Bluetooth, climate control and front and rear heated seats.

The new diesel model will also feature parking cameras - the standard rear view with the addition of a new camera mounted within the passenger door to show the driver obstacles in the blind spot during parking.

"Murano was, of course, the first crossover in our range and now that this second generation model has a diesel engine option, its appeal will be even wider on the European market," said Simon Thomas, Nissan's European Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing.

The announcement of the new diesel Murano coincides with the news of another new crossover for the brand - the Juke.

Aoibhinn Twomey - 16 Mar 2010