What To Know
- In contrast, the Chevy Equinox has a more traditional SUV design, with a boxy shape and a more conservative front fascia.
- In terms of handling, the Nissan Murano offers a more dynamic and engaging driving experience, with responsive steering and a well-balanced suspension.
- The Chevy Equinox, while not as sporty, provides a comfortable and stable ride, making it a suitable choice for everyday commuting and family adventures.
When it comes to choosing a midsize SUV, the Nissan Murano and Chevy Equinox are two popular contenders. Both vehicles offer a blend of style, performance, and practicality, making them appealing options for families and individuals alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Nissan Murano and Chevy Equinox to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Exterior
The Nissan Murano boasts a sleek and modern exterior design, featuring sharp lines and a bold grille. Its sleek profile and coupe-like roofline give it a sporty and stylish appearance. In contrast, the Chevy Equinox has a more traditional SUV design, with a boxy shape and a more conservative front fascia. It offers a rugged and utilitarian look that appeals to those seeking a more practical vehicle.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Nissan Murano impresses with its spacious and well-appointed cabin. It features high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Chevy Equinox offers a similarly spacious interior, but with a more utilitarian design and less upscale materials. Both vehicles offer a range of standard and optional features, including heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety technologies.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the Nissan Murano is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. The Chevy Equinox, on the other hand, offers a choice of two engines: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of handling, the Nissan Murano offers a more dynamic and engaging driving experience, with responsive steering and a well-balanced suspension. The Chevy Equinox, while not as sporty, provides a comfortable and stable ride, making it a suitable choice for everyday commuting and family adventures.
Fuel Efficiency
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Chevy Equinox has a slight edge over the Nissan Murano. The Equinox with the 1.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, while the 2.0-liter engine gets 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Nissan Murano, on the other hand, achieves 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Safety and Reliability
Both the Nissan Murano and Chevy Equinox have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Murano earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, while the Equinox received a four-star overall rating.
In terms of reliability, the Nissan Murano has a slightly better track record than the Chevy Equinox, according to Consumer Reports. The Murano has received an above-average predicted reliability rating, while the Equinox has received an average rating.
Price and Value
The Nissan Murano has a slightly higher starting price than the Chevy Equinox. The base Murano S trim starts at $32,540, while the base Equinox LS trim starts at $25,800. However, the Murano offers more standard features than the Equinox, including a sunroof, heated seats, and a larger touchscreen display.
Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize style, performance, and features, the Nissan Murano is a more compelling choice. If you value practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability, the Chevy Equinox may be a better fit.
Which SUV is Right for You?
Choosing between the Nissan Murano and Chevy Equinox depends on your specific preferences and requirements. If you seek a stylish, sporty, and well-equipped SUV, the Nissan Murano is a great option. However, if you prioritize practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability, the Chevy Equinox is a more sensible choice.
Nissan Murano Pros:
- Sleek and modern exterior design
- Spacious and well-appointed interior
- Powerful V6 engine
- Responsive and engaging handling
- High safety ratings
- Above-average predicted reliability
Nissan Murano Cons:
- Higher starting price
- Less fuel-efficient compared to the Equinox
Chevy Equinox Pros:
- Affordable starting price
- Spacious and practical interior
- Choice of fuel-efficient engines
- Comfortable and stable handling
- High safety ratings
- Average predicted reliability
Chevy Equinox Cons:
- More conservative exterior design
- Less upscale interior materials
- Less powerful base engine
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which SUV has the better fuel economy?
A: The Chevy Equinox with the 1.5-liter engine has slightly better fuel economy than the Nissan Murano.
Q: Which SUV has the more powerful engine?
A: The Nissan Murano has a more powerful V6 engine than the Chevy Equinox.
Q: Which SUV has the more spacious interior?
A: Both SUVs offer spacious interiors, with the Chevy Equinox having a slightly larger cargo area.
Q: Which SUV has the better safety ratings?
A: Both SUVs have received high safety ratings, with the Nissan Murano having a slight edge in overall safety.
Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: The Nissan Murano has a slightly better predicted reliability rating than the Chevy Equinox, according to Consumer Reports.