Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a 2018 Nissan Murano? Awesome choice! It's a super stylish and comfy SUV. But, you're probably scratching your head about whether to go for the SL or the Platinum trim, right? No worries, I’m here to break it down for you in plain English. Let's dive deep into the 2018 Nissan Murano, comparing the SL and Platinum trims to help you make the best decision for your needs and budget.

Unpacking the 2018 Nissan Murano SL

Let's kick things off with the 2018 Nissan Murano SL. This trim is like the sweet spot – you get a ton of features without completely emptying your wallet. The SL is a fantastic option for those who want a taste of luxury and advanced tech without the top-tier price tag.

First off, let's talk comfort. The SL comes standard with leather-appointed seats, which not only look great but also feel amazing, especially on long drives. You also get heated front seats, which are a lifesaver during those chilly mornings. Imagine sinking into a warm, comfy seat as you head to work – pure bliss!

Tech-wise, the SL doesn't disappoint. It boasts an 8-inch touchscreen display with NissanConnect, which includes navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. This means you can easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and contacts right on the screen. The navigation system is super handy for getting around, especially if you're in unfamiliar territory. Plus, you get a premium Bose audio system with 11 speakers, so your tunes will sound crystal clear and rich.

Safety is also a big deal with the SL. It comes equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. These features act like an extra set of eyes on the road, helping you avoid potential accidents and stay safe. The blind-spot monitoring is particularly useful when changing lanes, alerting you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot. And the rear cross-traffic alert is a lifesaver when you're backing out of parking spaces, warning you of any approaching vehicles.

On the outside, the SL has a sleek and stylish look with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and a power panoramic moonroof. The moonroof is a great feature for letting in natural light and fresh air, making your drives more enjoyable. And the LED headlights provide excellent visibility at night, enhancing your safety. The overall design of the SL is modern and sophisticated, making it a head-turner on the road.

In summary, the 2018 Nissan Murano SL offers a compelling package of comfort, technology, and safety features at a great value. It's an excellent choice for those who want a taste of luxury without breaking the bank. You’ll get plenty of bells and whistles to keep you happy and comfortable on your daily commutes and weekend adventures.

Delving into the 2018 Nissan Murano Platinum

Now, let’s crank things up a notch and explore the 2018 Nissan Murano Platinum. This is the top-of-the-line trim, loaded with every imaginable feature and luxury. If you want the ultimate in comfort, convenience, and technology, the Platinum is the way to go. Think of it as the VIP experience of the Murano lineup.

When it comes to luxury, the Platinum doesn’t hold back. It features premium leather seats with diamond-quilted inserts, which not only look incredibly stylish but also provide superior comfort. You also get heated and cooled front seats, so you can stay comfortable no matter the weather. And the heated rear seats ensure that your passengers in the back are just as cozy. It’s like sitting in your favorite armchair, but on wheels!

Tech-wise, the Platinum takes everything from the SL and adds even more goodies. It includes all the features of the SL, such as the 8-inch touchscreen display with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, as well as the premium Bose audio system. But on top of that, you get additional features like a 360-degree camera system, which gives you a bird's-eye view of your surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze. The Platinum also includes intelligent cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. This is a game-changer on long highway drives, reducing driver fatigue and enhancing safety.

Safety is also a top priority with the Platinum. It includes all the safety features of the SL, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. But it also adds lane departure warning and lane keep assist, which help you stay in your lane and avoid unintentional drifting. These features are especially useful on long drives, helping you stay alert and focused.

On the outside, the Platinum stands out with its unique styling elements, including 20-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights with signature daytime running lights, and chrome exterior trim. These details give the Platinum a more upscale and refined look, setting it apart from the lower trims. The power panoramic moonroof is also standard on the Platinum, providing an open and airy feel to the cabin.

In a nutshell, the 2018 Nissan Murano Platinum is the ultimate expression of luxury and technology in the Murano lineup. It offers a wide range of features that enhance comfort, convenience, and safety, making it an excellent choice for those who want the very best. If you're looking to spoil yourself with a top-of-the-line SUV, the Platinum is definitely worth considering.

Key Differences: SL vs. Platinum

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. What really sets the 2018 Nissan Murano SL apart from the Platinum? Here's a breakdown of the key differences to help you make a smart choice:

• Seating: The SL boasts leather-appointed seats with heated front seats, providing a comfortable and luxurious feel. The Platinum takes it up a notch with premium leather seats featuring diamond-quilted inserts, heated and cooled front seats, and heated rear seats for ultimate comfort.
• Wheels: The SL comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, which look stylish and provide a smooth ride. The Platinum features larger 20-inch alloy wheels, adding a touch of sophistication and enhancing the vehicle's overall appearance.
• Technology: Both trims have an 8-inch touchscreen display with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, as well as a premium Bose audio system. However, the Platinum adds a 360-degree camera system and intelligent cruise control for added convenience and safety.
• Safety Features: Both trims are equipped with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. The Platinum adds lane departure warning and lane keep assist for enhanced safety on the road.
• Exterior Styling: The SL has a sleek and modern design with LED headlights and a power panoramic moonroof. The Platinum stands out with its unique styling elements, including LED headlights with signature daytime running lights and chrome exterior trim, giving it a more upscale and refined look.

In essence, the Platinum trim adds extra layers of luxury, advanced technology, and enhanced safety features compared to the SL. It’s all about whether those extra perks are worth the additional cost for you.

Making the Right Choice

So, which 2018 Nissan Murano is right for you – the SL or the Platinum? It really boils down to your personal preferences, needs, and budget. Let’s break it down further:

• Budget: If you're looking for a great value and want to save some money, the SL is an excellent choice. It offers a fantastic set of features without breaking the bank.
• Luxury: If you crave the ultimate in luxury and want to be pampered with every possible feature, the Platinum is the way to go. It's packed with premium materials, advanced technology, and top-of-the-line amenities.
• Technology: If you're a tech enthusiast and want the latest and greatest features, the Platinum has you covered. The 360-degree camera system and intelligent cruise control are game-changers.
• Safety: Both trims offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, but the Platinum adds lane departure warning and lane keep assist for added peace of mind.

Consider what's most important to you in a vehicle. Do you prioritize comfort, technology, or safety? Are you willing to pay extra for the added luxuries of the Platinum trim? Answer these questions, and you'll be well on your way to making the right decision.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between the 2018 Nissan Murano SL and Platinum trims is all about finding the perfect balance between features and price. The SL offers a fantastic value with a strong set of comfort, tech, and safety features. The Platinum, on the other hand, delivers the ultimate luxury experience with even more advanced features and premium materials.

No matter which trim you choose, you're getting a stylish, comfortable, and capable SUV that's sure to impress. So go ahead, do your research, take a test drive, and find the 2018 Nissan Murano that's perfect for you. Happy driving!