USDM to JDM
It’s not surprising that automakers have specific models for each region or market they participate in. There’s no sense selling a product that Japan wants, but the U.S. doesn’t, which leads to USDM like the much-loved Murano SUV. Already in its fourth generation, the Murano has become a popular choice in the larger SUV market.
It was also sold in Japan until 2015, but the 11-year absence is about to be broken. Nissan announced in March of 2026 that the Murano would return to Japanese dealerships in 2027, but as a U.S.-built import.
Some people seem quite excited for the Murano’s return, and Kuhl Racing, a Japanese tuning firm, has just released aftermarket support in anticipation.
Kuhl Racing Japan
Kuhl Makes Murano Cool
Not wanting to waste any time, Kuhl Racing has already drawn up a potential build for a modified Murano. Never one to shy away from pushing the boundaries of builds, Kuhl’s idea of a tuned Murano is to turn the big SUV into a low-riding street cruiser.
This is evident from the renderings, and the low ride height will be made possible by the adjustable suspension setup. Reportedly, the ride height will drop by 2.4-2.8 inches, significantly lowering the Murano’s height to sedan or even sports-car levels. Because the Murano is a relatively wide SUV, Kuhl believes it’s a good platform for aggressive sporty builds.
In fact, the company admits that it is considering developing a full aero kit to complement the current lowered renderings. Based on Kuhl’s recent statements about the project, it’s highly likely that the aero kit will feature a front splitter, rear diffuser, rear wing, and side skirts.
Part of the design study includes adding aftermarket rims. Khul will be offering an array of forged aftermarket 21 or 22-inch rims. Specifically rims from Verz-Wheels in the form of the VRF01 seven-spoke design, or the KCV04 with ten spokes. Overall, the rendering in its current form makes Murano look sleeker and wagon-like.
Kuhl Racing Japan
Out Of This World
Currently, Kuhl offers the same type of aftermarket treatment for the Toyota Crown Estate, which is close in terms of size and class to the Murano. Mind you, these builds are nothing compared to Kuhl’s more radical projects.
During the recent edition of the Tokyo Auto Salon, Kuhl’s Outroad project took center stage. This was a GR86 taking inspiration from the 911 Dakar, as a sports car for the beaten path. As a spin-off of that project, the GR86 Spec D was based on the Outroad but designed for the drift track rather than the dirt track.
