We bought the 2012 S model. Love the SUV. If you are looking at the Rogue or the cabriolet version of the Murano- DON"T waste of the money. We didn't get the AWD version because of the cost, but the front wheel drive worked fine to pull itself up a steep hill with ice patches this winter.
The transmission is a little different in that it does not shift like normal. I personally like it, but others who have driven the car said it felt weird. Guess a personal taste type thing.
Considering we have put 8K miles in 5 months (not the primary car either), it has been better than expected.
Cons: Horrible turning radius. Makes it tricky to back into or parallel park.
As for Nissans, I have owned a couple that I drove to more than 100K miles each so I can't complain about the manufacture.
We were looking to purchase a Lexus RX450, but decided for half the money that the Murano more than fit the bill. Next year after paying this one off, we will likely purchase another Murano with all the bells and whistles which is the only regret we have about the S model.
Hope this helps,
Ro