Nissan Murano Returns to Japan in 2027: Could the US-Made Flagship SUV Come to Hong Kong?

Nissan has announced exciting news for car enthusiasts: the evergreen Murano SUV will return to the Japanese market as an import. Produced at Nissan's Smyrna plant in Tennessee, this large luxury SUV is expected to reappear in Japanese showrooms in early 2027, marking the model's long-awaited homecoming after years away. For Hong Kong car fans, this news carries a direct implication: if the Murano can leverage new regulations to return to Japan, does the possibility of a right-hand-drive (RHD) version coming to Hong Kong also increase?

Return Catalyst: New System Simplifies Certification

The Murano's return is largely facilitated by Japan's new "US-made Passenger Car Certification System," established by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in February 2026. This policy framework significantly simplifies the approval process for importing US-made vehicles. Nissan COO Ivan Espinosa stated that the Murano is renowned in the US market for its excellent design and ultimate ride comfort, having been named the most reliable midsize SUV in the J.D. Power US Vehicle Dependability Study for two consecutive years. Nissan aims to meet the strong Japanese demand for high-quality, spacious SUVs with this model.

This policy's significance extends beyond the Murano itself; it sets a precedent. If Japan can create a dedicated certification channel for US-made vehicles, could other RHD markets follow suit? For Hong Kong, this suggests potential lower barriers for introducing US-spec models in the future.

Product Positioning: An Alternative Flagship Focused on Elegance

The Murano has always carved a niche with its elegant, refined character rather than hardcore off-road capability. Its US market success demonstrates its proven mechanical reliability and interior craftsmanship. For the Japanese market, this model, combining American flair with Japanese refinement, stands out in the current SUV landscape. The accolade of being the most dependable midsize SUV for two consecutive years in the J.D. Power study holds significant weight for buyers valuing long-term ownership.

Reflecting on its history, the Murano's debut in 2002, with its avant-garde, streamlined design that broke away from bulky SUV conventions, was a significant shock to the automotive world. This design philosophy remains timeless. Amidst today's SUV trends favoring sharp lines or rugged looks, a model prioritizing sofa-like comfort and understated luxury like the Murano is truly valuable.

A Hong Kong Perspective: Potential for the RHD Market

For Hong Kong users, the Murano's Japan return offers several insights. First, the possibility of an RHD version. Japan and Hong Kong are both RHD markets. If the Murano can leverage new rules to return to Japan, the foundation for an RHD version exists. Nissan's RHD production capabilities are established; with sufficient market demand, a Hong Kong introduction isn't impossible.

Second, product-market fit. Despite Hong Kong's dense urban environment, local drivers highly value comfort and distinctive design. The Murano's American spaciousness and Japanese reliability would be a compelling combination, offering a haven of comfort amidst traffic.

Third, market dynamics. Hong Kong's luxury SUV market is dominated by European brands like the BMW X5, Mercedes GLE, and Audi Q7. A reasonably priced Murano would offer a unique alternative focused on comfort, reliability, and a distinct character. Its J.D. Power dependability record would strongly appeal to Hong Kong buyers prioritizing long-term ownership.

Personal Opinion: A Return to Comfort-Centric Design

The news of the Murano's return stirs nostalgia. It originally redefined SUVs with its flowing design. Now, its return as a "comfort flagship" comes at a time when the SUV market is arguably overly focused on sportiness at the expense of ride quality.

For Hong Kong users, the Murano represents a desirable direction. In an era dominated by electrification, a comfortable, reliable, understated luxury SUV stands out. With the right pricing, this blend of American space and Japanese dependability could find a strong following.

The Murano's scheduled 2027 return to Japan is a date worth watching. If a model can be the most dependable midsize SUV in the US and navigate new regulations to return to its home market, the prospect of an RHD version eventually arriving in Hong Kong might not be too far-fetched.