What To Know
- The Murano has a starting price of $32,940 for the base S trim and goes up to $46,280 for the Platinum trim.
- It provides a more spacious and versatile interior, along with a higher ride height, but comes at a slightly higher price point.
- The Maxima offers an unparalleled driving experience with its potent engine and sharp handling, while the Murano provides a spacious and versatile interior with a comfortable ride.
When choosing a new vehicle, it’s crucial to compare similar models to find the best fit for your needs. In the realm of midsize sedans and crossovers, the Nissan Maxima and Nissan Murano emerge as top contenders. This blog post delves into a comprehensive comparison of these two models, exploring their key features, performance, and value propositions to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Handling
Nissan Maxima: The Maxima is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 300 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). It offers a smooth and responsive driving experience, with quick acceleration and precise handling.
Nissan Murano: The Murano comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a 9-speed automatic transmission. While it’s not as powerful as the Maxima, it provides ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. The Murano’s all-wheel drive system enhances stability and traction in various road conditions.
Interior and Features
Nissan Maxima: The Maxima boasts a spacious and well-appointed cabin with premium materials and comfortable seating. It features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 9-speaker Bose audio system. The Maxima also offers advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Nissan Murano: The Murano’s interior is equally impressive, with a roomy cabin and versatile seating arrangements. Its infotainment system includes a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an 11-speaker Bose audio system. The Murano also comes equipped with a suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning.
Fuel Efficiency
Nissan Maxima: The Maxima has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Nissan Murano: The Murano’s fuel economy is rated at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Cargo and Towing Capacity
Nissan Maxima: The Maxima offers 14.3 cubic feet of trunk space, suitable for everyday errands and weekend trips. It has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.
Nissan Murano: The Murano provides 32.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 67 cubic feet with the second row folded down. It can tow up to 1,500 pounds.
Price and Value
Nissan Maxima: The Maxima is priced from $37,340 for the base S trim to $44,280 for the top-of-the-line Platinum trim. It offers a balanced combination of performance, features, and value for money.
Nissan Murano: The Murano has a starting price of $32,940 for the base S trim and goes up to $46,280 for the Platinum trim. It provides a more spacious and versatile interior, along with a higher ride height, but comes at a slightly higher price point.
Which Vehicle is Right for You?
The choice between the Nissan Maxima and Nissan Murano ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Maxima if you:
- Prioritize performance and handling
- Value a spacious and well-appointed interior
- Prefer a lower ride height
Choose the Murano if you:
- Need more cargo and seating versatility
- Desire a higher ride height and all-wheel drive capability
- Don’t mind sacrificing some performance for a more spacious interior
Final Thoughts
Both the Nissan Maxima and Nissan Murano are excellent vehicles in their respective segments. The Maxima offers an unparalleled driving experience with its potent engine and sharp handling, while the Murano provides a spacious and versatile interior with a comfortable ride. By carefully considering your driving needs, preferences, and budget, you can make an informed decision and choose the vehicle that best suits your lifestyle.
FAQ
Q: Which model has a more powerful engine?
A: The Nissan Maxima has a more powerful engine with 300 horsepower, compared to the Murano’s 260 horsepower.
Q: Does the Murano have more cargo space than the Maxima?
A: Yes, the Murano offers more cargo space with 32.1 cubic feet behind the second row, compared to the Maxima’s 14.3 cubic feet.
Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
A: Both the Maxima and Murano have similar fuel economy ratings, with the Maxima slightly more efficient on the highway.
Q: Does the Murano come with all-wheel drive?
A: Yes, the Murano comes standard with an all-wheel drive system, while the Maxima is only available with front-wheel drive.
Q: Which vehicle has a higher price point?
A: The Murano has a slightly higher price point, starting at $32,940 compared to the Maxima’s $37,340.