Yes i've done a search
. . . . i'd just like some input.
Of course i'll be test driving both back to back sometime during next week, but i am looking at getting a SE or an SL Platinum / Charcoal/ AWD / Touring Mo
My two main concerns are:
DSL vs 6 gear shift
SL suspension vs Stiffer SE suspension
After reading many posts it seems like DSL is the better system. I would probably never use "L" but most likely i'd shift into S all the time when braking before taking a turn (where i normally downshift to power out of a turn). "S" seems to put the RPMs right at 4k and hold them there which to me seems like exactly where you want to be, whereas with a 6 speed shift I'd be varying the rpms and changing the power delivery with each shift. The thought of the 6 speed also makes me wonder if it decreases the life of the CVT with use. If you think about it, downshifting with that puts probably more of a greater strain on the belt (probably jumping 1-2k rpm) versus the smaller increase of RPMs in "S" mode. The one place where the six speed might come in handy is in snow conditions where it is beneficial to keep RPMs low to avoid spinning tires. Either way, right now I'm looking at a built up SL instead of an SE so I can get DSL . . . . Opinions please.
Next issue is that I like my suspensions stiff and I like a vehicle that corners very well and responds well. Having a less stiff suspension might be an issue for me and seeing as how there are no aftermarket shock manufacturers out for the Murano, that means I'd have to buy the SE suspension and put it on myself. Is the suspension difference between the two that great? Another thought that crossed my mind was buying some H&Rs and dropping it 1.5"
Another benefit of the SL is that I get the black unpainted lowers which I think look better on Platinum that that grey silver color which kinda matches but really doesn't. Oh and the wheels look better IMHO . . . . i really don't like the "bubbly" look of the 6 spokes (doesn't really matter because I already have a set of wheels in mind)
Its a $700 savings between SL and SE granted that probably translates into a greater savings after negotiation.
Thoughts? What would you choose?
Of course i'll be test driving both back to back sometime during next week, but i am looking at getting a SE or an SL Platinum / Charcoal/ AWD / Touring Mo
My two main concerns are:
DSL vs 6 gear shift
SL suspension vs Stiffer SE suspension
After reading many posts it seems like DSL is the better system. I would probably never use "L" but most likely i'd shift into S all the time when braking before taking a turn (where i normally downshift to power out of a turn). "S" seems to put the RPMs right at 4k and hold them there which to me seems like exactly where you want to be, whereas with a 6 speed shift I'd be varying the rpms and changing the power delivery with each shift. The thought of the 6 speed also makes me wonder if it decreases the life of the CVT with use. If you think about it, downshifting with that puts probably more of a greater strain on the belt (probably jumping 1-2k rpm) versus the smaller increase of RPMs in "S" mode. The one place where the six speed might come in handy is in snow conditions where it is beneficial to keep RPMs low to avoid spinning tires. Either way, right now I'm looking at a built up SL instead of an SE so I can get DSL . . . . Opinions please.
Next issue is that I like my suspensions stiff and I like a vehicle that corners very well and responds well. Having a less stiff suspension might be an issue for me and seeing as how there are no aftermarket shock manufacturers out for the Murano, that means I'd have to buy the SE suspension and put it on myself. Is the suspension difference between the two that great? Another thought that crossed my mind was buying some H&Rs and dropping it 1.5"
Another benefit of the SL is that I get the black unpainted lowers which I think look better on Platinum that that grey silver color which kinda matches but really doesn't. Oh and the wheels look better IMHO . . . . i really don't like the "bubbly" look of the 6 spokes (doesn't really matter because I already have a set of wheels in mind)
Its a $700 savings between SL and SE granted that probably translates into a greater savings after negotiation.
Thoughts? What would you choose?