Hey guys! So, you're eyeing a 2018 Nissan Murano, huh? Excellent choice! It's a smooth ride with plenty of style. But now you're stuck trying to decide between the SL and the Platinum trims. Don't sweat it; I'm here to break down the differences and help you figure out which one is the perfect fit for you. Let's dive deep into what makes each trim special, covering everything from interior comforts to advanced tech features. By the end of this, you'll be a Murano expert, ready to make the best decision for your needs and budget!

Unveiling the 2018 Nissan Murano: A Quick Overview

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the SL versus Platinum debate, let's take a moment to appreciate what makes the 2018 Nissan Murano such a fantastic SUV in the first place. The Murano is known for its bold styling, a comfortable and spacious interior, and a smooth, refined driving experience. It's the kind of SUV that makes you feel good whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend road trip. Under the hood, you'll find a reliable 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers plenty of power for confident acceleration and effortless cruising. The Murano also boasts a suite of available safety features, designed to keep you and your passengers protected on the road. Overall, the 2018 Murano offers a compelling blend of style, comfort, and technology, making it a popular choice for SUV buyers. This vehicle stands out with its aerodynamic design, contributing to better fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise, ensuring a quieter cabin experience. Its intuitive infotainment system, paired with comfortable seating and ample cargo space, makes it ideal for both daily commutes and long journeys. Moreover, the Murano's suspension system is engineered to absorb bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and stable ride that enhances overall driving pleasure. With its combination of luxury, practicality, and performance, the 2018 Nissan Murano remains a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. Now, let's get into the specifics of the SL and Platinum trims to see which one aligns best with your preferences.

Spotlighting the SL Trim: Packed with Value

The 2018 Nissan Murano SL is where things start to get really interesting. It builds upon the lower trims with a significant upgrade in features and amenities. Think of it as the sweet spot between affordability and luxury. First off, you get leather upholstery, which immediately elevates the interior ambiance. No more cloth seats! You also get heated front seats, a lifesaver on those chilly mornings. The SL trim adds a power liftgate for easy access to the cargo area, a Bose premium audio system for audiophiles, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert for added safety. These features make the SL a well-rounded package that offers a lot of value for the money. Furthermore, the SL trim includes roof rails, enhancing the vehicle's utility for carrying extra cargo or recreational equipment. The intelligent around-view monitor provides a 360-degree view of your surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier. Inside, the ambient lighting creates a relaxing atmosphere, while the driver's seat memory function ensures your preferred settings are always ready. With its blend of comfort, convenience, and advanced safety technologies, the SL trim provides a superior driving experience. The inclusion of remote start allows you to warm up or cool down the vehicle before you even step inside. All these enhancements make the SL trim a popular choice for those seeking a balance of luxury and practicality in their SUV. Now, let's move on to the Platinum trim and see what extra features it offers.

Delving into the Platinum Trim: Top-Tier Luxury

Okay, now let's talk about the 2018 Nissan Murano Platinum. This is the top-of-the-line trim, offering the ultimate in luxury and features. If you want all the bells and whistles, the Platinum is the way to go. In addition to everything you get in the SL, the Platinum adds features like heated rear seats, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and ventilated front seats (perfect for those hot summer days!). You also get unique interior trim and exterior accents that set it apart from the other trims. But the biggest upgrade is the inclusion of advanced safety technologies like intelligent cruise control and forward emergency braking. These features provide an extra layer of protection and make driving safer and more enjoyable. The Platinum trim truly offers a premium experience. The Platinum trim also boasts distinctive features such as 20-inch alloy wheels, which not only enhance the vehicle's appearance but also improve handling and stability. Inside, the premium leather seats with diamond-quilted inserts exude luxury and sophistication. The addition of a panoramic sunroof allows natural light to flood the cabin, creating an open and airy feel. Moreover, the Platinum trim includes a suite of Nissan's most advanced safety technologies, such as lane departure warning and intervention, providing an added layer of security on the road. The upgraded infotainment system features enhanced graphics and faster processing speeds, ensuring a seamless and intuitive user experience. With its combination of upscale amenities and cutting-edge technology, the Platinum trim offers a truly elevated driving experience. For those who desire the very best, the 2018 Nissan Murano Platinum is the clear choice. Now, let's compare the two trims side by side.

SL vs. Platinum: Key Differences Examined

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and compare the key differences between the 2018 Nissan Murano SL and Platinum trims:

• Seating: The SL has heated front seats, while the Platinum adds heated rear seats and ventilated front seats. If you live in a cold climate or frequently have rear passengers, the Platinum's heated rear seats might be worth the upgrade. And if you live in a hot climate, the ventilated front seats are a godsend.
• Steering Wheel: The SL has a standard steering wheel, while the Platinum has a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel. This might seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in finding the perfect driving position.
• Safety Tech: Both trims have blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, but the Platinum adds intelligent cruise control and forward emergency braking. These advanced safety features can help prevent accidents and make driving safer overall.
• Aesthetics: The Platinum trim has unique interior trim and exterior accents that give it a more upscale look. If you care about having the most stylish Murano on the block, the Platinum is the way to go.
• Wheels: The Platinum trim comes standard with larger, more stylish alloy wheels, enhancing its overall appearance and road presence compared to the SL trim.

Making the Right Choice: Which Trim Suits You Best?

So, which trim should you choose: the SL or the Platinum? Well, it depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a well-equipped SUV with a touch of luxury at a reasonable price, the SL is an excellent choice. It has all the essential features you need, plus some nice extras like leather upholstery and a premium audio system. However, if you want the ultimate in luxury and technology, and you're willing to pay a premium for it, the Platinum is the way to go. It has all the bells and whistles, including heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, and advanced safety features. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test drive both trims and see which one feels right to you. Take each for a spin, play around with the features, and see which one fits your lifestyle and budget. Consider your daily driving needs, the number of passengers you typically carry, and your priorities in terms of comfort, convenience, and safety. By carefully evaluating these factors and comparing the features of each trim, you can make an informed decision and choose the 2018 Nissan Murano that's perfect for you. Remember, the goal is to find a vehicle that not only meets your practical needs but also brings you joy and enhances your overall driving experience.

Final Verdict: Weighing the Options

Choosing between the 2018 Nissan Murano SL and Platinum trims really boils down to your personal priorities and budget. The SL offers a fantastic blend of features and value, making it a smart choice for those who want a well-equipped SUV without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Platinum delivers a truly luxurious experience with its upscale amenities and advanced technology, but it comes at a higher price point. No matter which trim you choose, you're getting a stylish and comfortable SUV that's sure to turn heads. So, take your time, do your research, and make the decision that's right for you. Happy driving, guys! Consider factors such as the frequency of long trips, the importance of advanced safety features, and your personal preference for interior comfort and styling. By carefully weighing these factors, you can confidently choose the 2018 Nissan Murano that best aligns with your needs and desires, ensuring years of enjoyable and reliable driving.