Nissan Murano GT-C concept crossover SUV

Nissan Murano GT-C concept crossover SUV

The new Nissan Murano GT-C concept crossover SUV was finally unveiled earlier today at the annual Goodwood Festival of Speed event.

The concept is based on the well-known Nissan Murano 4×4 crossover, but features a revised powertrain, a raft of suspension, brake and steering upgrades, and a set of subtle changes in both exterior and interior.

Nissan Murano GT-C concept crossover SUV (interior)

The new 3.5-liter 24-valve V6 engine comes with a Garrett hybrid turbo-charger unit, which features a turbine from a Garrett T3 and a compressor from a Garrett T4 kit (these turbos are really popular about tuning specialist working on really expensive high-performance cars).

The engine also sports variable valve timing on both inlet and outlet camshafts, and an acoustically tuned stainless steel exhaust system with four tailpipes.

No wonder that the upgraded powertrain now produces 340 hp at 6,000 rpm and a decent 265 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm, which is good enough to accelerate the crossover from zero to 60 mph in just 7.0 seconds and provide the Nissan Murano GT-C with a top speed of 140 mph.

Well, if Nissan will ever decide to mass-produce this baby, it may become a real threat to both the Porsche Cayenne S and Infiniti FX35 driver-oriented crossover SUVs.

The engine is mated to a computer-controlled X-Tronic CVT all-wheel drive transmission, which transfers its power to a set of 22-inch five-spoke two-piece lightweight alloy wheels with Dunlop SP Sport Maxx ZR 265/35 profile tires.

After Goodwood, the Japanese car manufacturer plans to show it off again at the British International Motor Show set to be held next month.

Photos: Nissan

See also: 2007 Porsche Cayenne S Titanium Edition crossover SUV