Nissan is bringing the Murano crossover to Europe in 2005. It will serve as a flagship model for the marque in Europe since the company has decided not to bring the latest Maxima to Europe.
The Murano will be part of a premium-model range in Europe, says Pierre Loing, Nissan Europe general manager for product strategy and planning, in the current issue of Automotive News. It's powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine. In the US there is no diesel option.
According to Loing, the introduction of the Murano is part of Nissan's preparation for the introduction of the Infiniti brand in Europe. Although no decision on the Infiniti has been made, Loing says it will happen once the Nissan brand has been well established in Europe. The Murano's most promising markets are Germany, Britain and Switzerland.
Meanwhile, in the first quarter of next year, Nissan is planning to introduce a 350Z convertible .