The motor sector is gradually succumbing to SUV dominance. It is, without a doubt, the most widespread bodywork, the one that brings together the greatest number of sales in its different sizes. This has led to others such as coupes or minivans practically dying. However, in this attempt to reverse the situation we have also seen other trends that have not lasted. He Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet He was a model that a decade ago surprised the world with his self-confidence, but who was already dead at birth.
It was the first convertible SUV of modern times, it even inspired other examples that would follow a few years later such as the Range Rover Evoque Convertible or the Volkswagen T-Roc Cabrio. In fact, the Murano CrossCabriolet came about in a somewhat unlikely way that is worth remembering. This model is directly attributed to Carlos Ghosn. Yes, the boss of Nissan who had a murky end in the company with the authorities persecuting him for using company resources illicitly and declaring income that was less than real.
The fact is that at that time Rita KordahiGhosn’s wife, drove a Murano due to the practicality that the crossover brought her. At some point she showed interest in the possibility of adding the variable of having an open-air driving experience and her husband supported him. In just two years The director’s eccentric request had been fulfilled and in 2010 it was presented at the Los Angeles Motor Show. The following year the Murano CrossCabriolet arrived on the American market with a positioning never seen before.
The SUV changed its design considerably to be able to afford change the hardtop for a soft top. There was concern about the loss of rigidity and all kinds of reinforcements had to be made to make it viable. The results were nothing to write home about either, since those who tested it stated that it was unstable while driving. Also I lost practicality that had defined it, since the lack of the B-pillar was noticeable in the second row and the trunk was reduced to house the hood.
Therefore, the Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet would be defined as a convertible without sportiness and a crossover without utility, remaining in no man’s land. The public didn’t appreciate it either. too much, since it cost at least $5,000 more than the conventional version. In fact, it was the brand’s second most expensive model, only behind the Nissan GT-R. It never expanded to other markets and just three years later it was withdrawn. When it came to an end in 2014 Not even 6,000 units had been sold..
Despite being a complete failure for Nissan, the Murano CrossCabriolet established a foundation that was followed by others. We have already talked about other convertible SUVs that followed their example and that have lasted a little longer in the market (although it is a dead trend). He also stood out in the mechanical section when assembling a 3.5 liter V6 and the all-wheel drive that made it unique in its kind.
