Nissan Murano Trade in Value: Here's What You Should Get and Why
The Nissan Murano has held a unique near-luxury position in the midsize, two-row SUV segment for over a decade. In the 2026 trade-in market, the Murano's value is defined by its transition out of its long-running 3rd generation.
While its styling remained remarkably fresh for years, the older mechanical architecture, centered around the 3.5L V6 engine and a CVT transmission, means that it experiences more pronounced depreciation than its Japanese rivals, making it an excellent attainable luxury option for pre-owned buyers but a vehicle where condition and mileage heavily dictate trade-in offers.
While the compact SUV market fights over rugged off-road credibility, the Nissan Murano has quietly focused on passenger luxury. Its trade-in profile is distinct: it trades on a premium cabin experience, high-end materials, and highway cruising comfort. However, because it stayed in its third generation for nearly a decade without major mechanical updates, it experiences steeper depreciation than the Toyota Venza or Honda Passport.
The Luxury Divide: SL & Platinum Trims
If you are trading in a Murano, the trim level is your biggest asset.
- The Premium Gap: Because entry-level Murano trims (S and SV) can feel dated compared to newer rivals, the top-tier SL and Platinum models are much more desirable to used-car managers. Quilted semi-aniline leather, panoramic moonroofs, and premium Bose audio turn the Murano into a genuine luxury vehicle. A Platinum trim often pulls a $2,500–$4,500 premium over the S trim on trade-in.
- CVT Awareness: The 3.5L V6 engine is highly durable, but the paired Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) requires regular fluid changes. To secure a "Better than Average" valuation for any year, having documented proof of transmission servicing every 60,000 miles is vital. Without it, dealers may hedge their offers downward.
2026 Market Tip: The Zero Gravity Effect
One of the Murano's strongest selling points is its interior comfort, specifically the Zero Gravity front seats.
- The Wear and Tear Hit: Since luxury and comfort are the primary reasons a used buyer picks a Murano, the condition of the leather or fabric upholstery is under the microscope. Heavy creasing, bolster wear, or staining can easily drop your car from "Excellent" to "Fair" condition, costing you up to $1,000 in appraisal value. Spending money on a proper interior detail and leather conditioning is highly recommended.
3rd Generation (2015–2024)
The modern floating roof era. Known for supreme seat comfort (Zero Gravity seats) and its long production run. Values for top trims are higher due to premium features like quilted leather.
Year | Trim | Worse (Fair) | Average (Good) | Better (Excellent) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
2024 | S / SV | $19,800 | $22,400 | $24,800 |
SL / Platinum | $24,200 | $27,100 | $29,600 | |
2023 | S / SV | $17,500 | $19,900 | $22,100 |
SL / Platinum | $21,600 | $24,400 | $26,900 | |
2022 | S / SV | $15,100 | $17,400 | $19,500 |
SL / Platinum | $19,100 | $21,800 | $24,200 | |
2021 | S / SV | $13,400 | $15,600 | $17,600 |
SL / Platinum | $17,100 | $19,600 | $21,900 | |
2020 | S / SV | $11,800 | $13,900 | $15,900 |
SL / Platinum | $15,200 | $17,600 | $19,800 | |
2019 | S / SV | $10,400 | $12,400 | $14,300 |
SL / Platinum | $13,500 | $15,800 | $17,900 | |
2018 | S / SV | $9,100 | $11,100 | $12,900 |
SL / Platinum | $11,900 | $14,100 | $16,200 | |
2017 | S / SV | $7,900 | $9,800 | $11,500 |
SL / Platinum | $10,500 | $12,600 | $14,600 | |
2016 | S / SV | $6,800 | $8,600 | $10,200 |
SL / Platinum | $9,200 | $11,200 | $13,100 | |
2015 | S / SV / SL | $5,800 | $7,500 | $9,100 |
Platinum | $7,900 | $9,800 | $11,600 |
2nd Generation (2011–2014)
The rounded, upscale era. Trade-in values for these years have hit their floor, and condition is more important than trim level.
Year | Trim | Worse (Fair) | Average (Good) | Better (Excellent) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
2014 | S / SV / SL | $4,500 | $6,200 | $7,800 |
LE | $5,400 | $7,200 | $8,900 | |
2013 | S / SV / SL | $3,600 | $5,200 | $6,700 |
LE | $4,400 | $6,100 | $7,700 | |
2012 | S / SV / SL | $2,800 | $4,300 | $5,700 |
LE | $3,500 | $5,100 | $6,600 | |
2011 | S / SV / SL | $2,100 | $3,500 | $4,800 |
LE / CrossCabriolet* | $2,700 | $4,200 | $5,600* |
AutoGuide’s Advice:
The Murano’s exterior styling is bold, featuring sharp lines and chrome trim. Over time, that chrome can oxidize or pick up water spots. Giving the exterior trim a good polish before showing the vehicle to an appraiser goes a long way. When the car looks mirror-sharp on the lot, the appraiser is much more likely to place it in the "Better than Average" tier.
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