'09 Nissan Murano pricing announced (U.S)

Nissan dealers this week begin selling the redesigned 2009 Murano crossover, with prices starting at $27,075 — about $1,500 below the price of last year's model. The sticker includes a $745 shipping charge.

The previous Murano, a 2007 model, started at $28,575.The second-generation Murano is available in two- and all-wheel-drive versions, and is offered in three trim levels: S, SL and LE. The range-topping '09 Murano LE AWD has a sticker of $36,655, including shipping. That's a substantial hike over the top-of-the-line '07 Murano SE AWD, which retailed for $32,675. The new Murano LE AWD includes 20-inch alloy wheels, a Bose premium audio system with 11 speakers, XM Satellite Radio, an iPod interface, a 7-inch color display, smart key, heated front and rear seats with leather upholstery, a rearview monitor and much more.

Totally revamped inside and out, the '09 model gets a more powerful 265-horsepower 3.5-litre V6 and an upgraded continuously variable transmission.