By Andy Hum

LOCAL NISSAN DISTRIBUTOR, Tan Chong Motor, is now offering the 2.5-litre Nissan Murano sport utility vehicle (SUV) and the 3.7-litre 370Z Roadster.

For SUV lovers, especially those who like the Murano for its plush characteristics but not its tax-unfriendly 3.5-litre V6 engine, the new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine should make it more appealing. The new powerplant produces 170bhp and 245Nm of torque and will be mated to Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission. Goodies include a factory-fitted reverse camera, Bose audio system, 18-inch wheels and an electrically-powered tailgate lifter, while a sunroof is an available option.

Nissan’s other model, the 370Z Roadster, should be even more electrifying. It has the same 333bhp 3.7-litre V6 engine as the 370Z Coupe, but it has a retractable soft-top, so drivers and passengers can get a better sensation of its performance.

Both manual and automatic transmission versions of the 370Z Roadster are available, and the cars will come with xenon headlamps, keyless entry, a Bose sound system and 19-inch sport rims. Air-conditioned seats are also available as options.

Pre-launch prices for the Nissan Murano 2.5 start from $126,000, and the 370Z Roadster with manual transmission will cost from $172,800, while the automatic is $3,000 more. All prices include COE.