What To Know
- The Murano provides a slightly more generous amount of legroom and cargo space, making it the better choice for families or those who frequently transport large items.
- The Murano’s V6 engine returns an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the CX-5’s 2.
- The Murano features a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium Bose audio system.
In the realm of midsize crossovers, two titans stand out: the Nissan Murano and the Mazda CX-5. These vehicles offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality, making them popular choices among SUV enthusiasts. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key aspects of the Nissan Murano vs. CX-5 to determine which one emerges as the superior choice.
Exterior Design: Bold Murano vs. Sleek CX-5
The Nissan Murano exudes a bold and muscular stance, featuring sharp lines and a prominent grille. Its angular headlights and boomerang-shaped taillights give it a distinctive and aggressive appearance. In contrast, the Mazda CX-5 boasts a more refined and sleek design. Its flowing body lines, elegant curves, and signature grille create a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic.
Interior Space and Comfort: Roomy Murano vs. Cozy CX-5
Both the Murano and CX-5 offer spacious interiors with ample seating for five passengers. The Murano provides a slightly more generous amount of legroom and cargo space, making it the better choice for families or those who frequently transport large items. However, the CX-5’s interior is exceptionally well-crafted, with high-quality materials and a premium feel. Its seats are supportive and offer excellent lumbar support.
Performance and Handling: Powerful Murano vs. Agile CX-5
Under the hood, the Nissan Murano is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, offers a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter inline-four with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four with 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged engine gives the CX-5 an edge in acceleration and overall performance.
When it comes to handling, the Mazda CX-5 excels with its precise steering, responsive brakes, and balanced suspension. It offers a sporty and engaging driving experience that will appeal to enthusiasts. The Nissan Murano is not as agile as the CX-5, but it still provides a comfortable and stable ride.
Fuel Economy: Efficient Murano vs. Thirsty CX-5
In terms of fuel economy, the Nissan Murano has a slight advantage over the Mazda CX-5. The Murano’s V6 engine returns an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the CX-5’s 2.5-liter inline-four gets 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The CX-5’s turbocharged engine sacrifices some fuel efficiency, delivering 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Technology and Features: Advanced Murano vs. Intuitive CX-5
Both the Nissan Murano and Mazda CX-5 come well-equipped with a range of technology and safety features. The Murano features a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium Bose audio system. The CX-5’s infotainment system is equally intuitive, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a Bose 10-speaker audio system. Both vehicles also offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Value and Price: Affordable Murano vs. Premium CX-5
The Nissan Murano offers a more affordable starting price than the Mazda CX-5. The base Murano S trim starts at around $32,000, while the base CX-5 Sport trim starts at around $26,000. However, the CX-5 offers a wider range of trim levels and options, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their specific needs and budget.
The Verdict: A Tale of Two Titans
The Nissan Murano and Mazda CX-5 are both excellent midsize crossovers that offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual preferences and priorities.
If you value bold design, spacious interiors, and affordability, the Nissan Murano is the ideal choice. However, if you prioritize performance, handling, and premium appointments, the Mazda CX-5 is the clear winner.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Nissan Murano has a more powerful engine with 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque.
Q: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
A: The Nissan Murano has a slightly better fuel economy than the Mazda CX-5, with an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Nissan Murano has a slightly more spacious interior, with more legroom and cargo space than the Mazda CX-5.
Q: Which vehicle has a better infotainment system?
A: Both vehicles offer user-friendly infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. However, the Mazda CX-5 has a larger touchscreen and a more intuitive interface.
Q: Which vehicle has a higher safety rating?
A: Both vehicles have received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).