2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet

Unique and Trendsetting 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet

A few weeks ago, I was invited to Dallas on behalf of Nissan. Guests had the exciting opportunity to test drive the prototype of the upcoming Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet at the event. These were not rough prototypes but fully finished, polished, and road-ready vehicles. The lineup outside the Hotel ZaZa in Dallas was impressive, with the 2011 Murano Cabriolet ready to hit the road. We hope this post about the 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet sparks inspiration for you.

Introducing the Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet

As the world’s first all-wheel drive crossover convertible, the 2011 Murano CrossCabriolet breaks new ground in both the crossover SUV and convertible segments. With its never-before-seen design and custom boutique style, the Murano CrossCabriolet is unlike anything on the road – blending all of the things people love in a crossover with the open-air enjoyment of a convertible. The Murano CrossCabriolet is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in  July 2011.

We started the day classroom-style learning about the cars and even heard firsthand from some of the designers/engineers at Nissan. Then it was test drive time! The setup was pretty cool. We were given maps, got to choose our cars and then we were off adventure-style around the city of Dallas. We left with the top down, of course. This was our car (isn't she pretty?):

Facts About the CrossCabriolet

• The 2011 Murano Cabriolet is the world’s first all-wheel drive crossover convertible
• 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet goes on sale this Spring – fully equipped starting at $46,390
• The all-new Murano CrossCabriolet has an exceptionally compact top that allows for additional interior and cargo space
• The Murano CrossCabriolet has a hydraulically operated top – with an automatic power latch/unlatch system activated on the center console & driver’s door handle
• The 2011 Nissan Murano Cabriolet comes in 6 colors: Sunset Bronze & Caribbean plus Merlot, Platinum Graphite, Super Black & Glacier Pearl White
• The 2011 Murano Cabriolet has the versatility and functionality of a true crossover and the unique open-air driving experience of a pure convertible
• Some of Murano CrossCabriolet's standard features: are AWD, Navigation & heated seats, climate control, and Bose Audio System to name a few.

From Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.:

“The versatility and functionality of a true all-wheel drive crossover, the unique open air driving experience of a pure convertible – the Murano CrossCabriolet is a breakthrough in concept, design and execution. Innovation meets Murano with stunning results.”

Driving the 2011 Murano CrossCabriolet

I find the 2011 Murano Cabriolet to be a joy to drive. Its slightly elevated seating position, although initially unfamiliar to some, appealed to me. Having driven an SUV for years, I appreciated this aspect of the car. Contrary to what I expected from a convertible, I enjoyed driving the Murano immensely. Its responsiveness and acceleration were impressive (I may have pushed it a bit, Nissan!). The interior was elegantly designed, and I had a tough time choosing among the available colors. While it may not suit my family of five currently, it would make an excellent second car or a vehicle for empty nesters. We've even considered renting one for a weekend getaway.

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We enjoyed the 2011 Nissan Murano cabriolet. We hope that this 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet post inspires you. Happy car shopping!

Disclosure: Nissan invited me to Dallas to test out the Murano CrossCabriolet. They did not tell me to post nor did they tell me what to write but they did put us up in a rockstar hotel otherwise known as Hotel ZaZa.

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