Home > News & Blogs > 2016 Nissan Murano: Car Seat Check
2016 Nissan Murano: Car Seat Check
Nissan Murano Car Seat Safety: Complete Installation Guide
Expert analysis of child seat compatibility in Nissan's popular midsize SUV
When evaluating family-friendly SUVs, car seat compatibility remains one of the most critical factors for parents. Our comprehensive assessment of the Nissan Murano reveals important insights about child safety seat installation, Latch system accessibility, and practical considerations for growing families.
--FIRST CAR LIST HERE--
Key Takeaway
The Nissan Murano comfortably accommodates two child safety seats in its second row, with particular strengths in convertible seat installation. However, families requiring three-across seating may need to consider alternative vehicles due to space limitations in the rear bench.
Nissan Murano Car Seat Capacity
The current-generation Nissan Murano offers improved legroom compared to previous models, but its redesigned seating configuration presents some challenges for child seat installation:
- Maximum car seats in second row: 2 (optimal configuration)
- Three-across seating possible: No (with standard car seats)
- Latch anchor availability: 2 sets in outboard positions
- Tether anchors: 3 positions (all seating locations)
While the Murano's increased dimensions suggest greater interior space, the bolstered seat cushions and reduced hip room compared to earlier models actually decrease usable area for multiple child restraints.
--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Detailed Installation Assessment
Our certified child passenger safety technicians conducted thorough evaluations using industry-standard testing equipment and installation methods.
Installation Advantages
- Convertible seat compatibility: Both rear- and forward-facing modes installed easily with ample clearance
- Booster seat accessibility: Stable buckle bases in outboard positions facilitate independent child use
- Legroom preservation: Front passenger space remains adequate even with rear-facing seats installed
- Head restraint adjustment: Removable designs simplify proper booster seat positioning
Installation Challenges
- Latch anchor accessibility: Flush-mounted anchors prove difficult to access with certain connector types
- Middle seat limitations: Ceiling-mounted seat belt webbing obstructs rear visibility when used
- Upholstery concerns: Stiff leather surfaces complicate secure installations in some configurations
- Three-across impracticality: Bolstered seat contours prevent proper installation of three standard seats
Convertible Seat Performance
The Murano excels with convertible seat installations in both orientations. Forward-facing configurations maintained excellent stability, while rear-facing installations didn't require excessive front seat adjustment. The rigid Latch connectors on our test seat connected securely despite the slightly recessed anchor points.
--SECOND CAR LIST HERE--
Booster Seat Evaluation
After removing the head restraint, our high-back booster seated properly with good belt geometry. The outboard seat belt buckles remained sufficiently elevated for easy child access, though the middle position's recessed buckle stalk would challenge younger children.
Infant Seat Installation
The rear-facing infant seat required moderate front seat adjustment but maintained acceptable legroom. The primary installation challenge involved connecting the seat's hook-style Latch connectors to the Murano's flush-mounted anchors through the stiff leather upholstery.
Car Seat Safety Rating
Based on our comprehensive evaluation criteria, the Nissan Murano earns the following ratings for child seat compatibility:
Important Safety Considerations
When installing child restraints in the Nissan Murano, parents should keep these critical factors in mind:
- Latch Weight Limits: Combined child and seat weight must not exceed 65 pounds when using Latch anchors
- Middle Seat Caution: Ceiling-mounted seat belt may interfere with proper installation and visibility
- Alternative Installation: Seat belt installations often provide better results in challenging configurations
- Professional Verification: Always have installations checked by certified technicians
- --THIRD CAR LIST HERE--
Expert Recommendation
The Nissan Murano works well for families with one or two children in car seats, particularly when using convertible seats. Families requiring three-across seating should consider vehicles with flatter rear benches and more accessible Latch systems. Always test your specific car seats in the vehicle before purchase.
Our Testing Methodology
MotorVero's Child Seat Safety Evaluations follow rigorous testing protocols conducted by certified technicians:
- Test Seats Used:
- Graco SnugRide Classic Connect 30 (infant seat)
- Britax Marathon (convertible seat)
- Graco TurboBooster (high-back booster)
- Installation Positions: All second row locations evaluated
- Front Seat Configuration: Adjusted for 6-foot driver and average-height passenger
- Evaluation Criteria: Fit, accessibility, ease of use, and passenger comfort
We assess both Latch and seat belt installations, verifying that each meets or exceeds federal safety standards and manufacturer guidelines.
--SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you fit 3 car seats in a Nissan Murano?
While technically possible with certain slim-profile seats, we don't recommend three-across installations in the Murano. The bolstered seat contours and limited hip room prevent proper installation of most standard-sized car seats in this configuration.
Where are the Latch anchors located in the Nissan Murano?
The Murano provides two sets of lower Latch anchors in the outboard second-row positions. All three second-row seating positions include top tether anchors, located on the back of each seat.
Is the Nissan Murano good for car seats?
The Murano performs well for families with one or two children in car seats, earning our "Good" rating (B overall). It particularly excels with convertible seat installations but has some limitations with infant seat connectors and three-across configurations.
What's the best car seat for a Nissan Murano?
Convertible seats with rigid Latch connectors (like our test Britax Marathon) work exceptionally well. For infant seats, models with wider connector hooks may prove easier to install than our test Graco SnugRide.
--FOURTH CAR LIST HERE--
Alternative Family SUV Considerations
If the Nissan Murano doesn't quite meet your family's needs, these alternatives offer excellent car seat compatibility:
- Honda Pilot: Superior three-across capability with wide, flat rear seats
- Toyota Highlander: Excellent Latch accessibility and ample hip room
- Subaru Ascent: Outstanding family-friendly features throughout all rows
- Kia Telluride: Thoughtful child seat accommodations and easy access
Final Verdict
The Nissan Murano represents a solid choice for small families prioritizing style and comfort, offering good compatibility with one or two child safety seats. While it falls short of being a three-seat champion, its strengths in convertible seat installation and preserved passenger comfort make it worthy of consideration for many parents.
Always remember that proper installation remains the most critical factor in child passenger safety. Regardless of vehicle choice, have your car seat installations verified by a certified technician to ensure maximum protection for your young passengers.
--THIRD CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Motorveroben
Last Updated On May, 30-2025