After its global launch two years ago, the all-new Nissan Murano is now headed for Philippine showrooms. However, this time it won't be brought by the same company that supplied the previous one.

A highly-placed source within the automotive industry has revealed that the Murano will be distributed by Universal Motors Corp., the local Nissan arm that handles the sales and distribution of the Japanese carmaker's commercial vehicles. Previously, the Murano was sold by Nissan Motor Philippines, the distributor in charge of Nissan passenger cars in the country.

The all-new Nissan Murano builds on the aggressive styling of its predecessor, boasting more pronounced vertical slats on the grille as well as muscular rear fenders that make it look much stronger than the previous model. At the back, the hatch's angle is sharper, further amplifying the muscular rear end. The previous generation's 350Z-style taillights have also been junked in favor of a horizontal one that mimics the headlight's shape.

Under the hood, the 3.5-litre V6 engine only serves to enhance the Nissan Murano's strong yet stylish facade as it now churns out 265 horsepower and 336Nm of torque through the new Xtronic CVT that - together with the Adaptive Shift Control - provides a sporty yet smooth driving experience that only a CVT can give.