All About Japan Autos

Though no one knows quite why Nissan decided to build it, the Murano CrossCabriolet is truly in a class of its own – in terms of looks and price.

Starting with a base price of $46,390, Nissan says it’s “[t]he world’s first AWD crossover convertible and newest member of Nissan’s crossover family.” Features of the CrossCabriolet include a “premium interior, a spacious rear seat, and enough trunk space for two golf bags or several suitcases – even with the top down.”

For such a unique-looking convertible, Nissan is pricing the Murano CrossCabriolet in the danger zone. The Murano’s base price is just a little more expensive than a base BMW 3-Series convertible. But with a spacious cabin and all-wheel drive, the Murano may offer other advantages the its drop-top competition can’t match.

Autoblog calls the Murano CrossCabriolet “the definition of off the wall,” adding, “If you thought it was ugly before, that probably didn’t help.”

According to Motor Trend, “Innovation is Nissan’s core belief according to Nissan’s head of design, Shiro Nakamura. The CrossCabriolet represents the reinvention of versatility and is aimed at ‘active optimistic couples in their 30s and 40s.’”

With that said, if you’re looking for an exciting and unique car, the Murano CrossCabriolet may be it. But if you’re put-off with its price and questionable looks, you may be best off looking elsewhere. The Audi A5 convertible is a stylish option that when equipped with Quattro all-wheel drive starts at $2,200 less than the all-new Murano.

Although Nissan did not confirm a definite release date for the 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet, it said to expect the drop-top Murano to hit showrooms in early 2011.

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