Nissan Murano detailed images - an impressive comeback

Nissan's spunky Murano will be back for another year as the company's flagship crossover. Designed for elegance and luxury above all else, the Murano seeks a specific buyer—someone who needs a little utility at a reasonable price, but still wants to look good and feel pampered.

Arriving on dealer lots in January, the 2016 Murano will carry over many of the previous year's features and attributes. That means you can expect more of the same from this good-looking (take a look at that floating roof) 5-passenger hauler—and that is certainly a welcome thing.

Under the hood, look for the Murano's familiar 3.5-liter 260-hp 6-cylinder engine. Whether those ponies go to the front or both the front and rear wheels is up to you—the Murano will be available with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). Linking that engine to the wheels will be Nissan's Xtronic CVT automatic, which should put up fuel mileage numbers around 21 mpg city/28 highway.

No matter which Murano you choose, you'll find plenty of amenities once you hop inside. Consider the basic S, which boasts a standard 7-inch color touchscreen with NissanConnect, a USB connection, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a 6-disc CD changer. The S should also come with steering wheel-mounted controls, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat (the Murano's good for 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 69.9 cubic feet with the rear seats down), and a backup camera. While the S will come with standard FWD, AWD will be available for a fee, as will navigation.

Move up to the mid-range SV and you'll still have a choice between FWD and AWD, but navigation will come standard. Also standard on the SV will be a power driver's seat and remote start. The Premium Package will be optional, which boasts a panoramic moonroof and 11-speaker Bose sound system.

Opt for the stylish SL and the Bose sound system will become standard, as will leather seats, a power liftgate, heated front seats, and Nissan's much-touted Around View monitoring system, which offers a 360-degree view of the area immediately around the car. You'll again have the choice of FWD and RWD, but will also have the option of selecting the Technology Package, which will add a panoramic moonroof, emergency braking, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control.

If you're really looking for some serious luxury, check out the fabulous Platinum. Including all the features of the SL plus LED headlights, heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats, the Platinum is meant for those who want the utility of a Murano and demand to be comfortable while using it. In addition to the many standard features, Platinum buyers will also have the options of upgrading from FWD to AWD and adding the available Technology Package.

The 2015 Nissan Murano earned a Top Safety Pick Plus rating (when equipped with front crash prevention technology) from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and we expect the 2016 model to follow in its footsteps. With such standard safety features as dual front airbags, driver knee airbag, front and rear side curtain airbags, electronic stability control, and 4-wheel antilock brakes, it's easy to see how the Murano has gained a reputation for being an extremely safe car. Couple that reputation for safety with its good looks, luxury, and utility, and the Murano is definitely worth some serious consideration by crossover shoppers.