Battle of the midsize suvs: nissan murano vs lexus nx 200t face-off
What To Know
- The Murano has a slight edge in fuel economy, with an EPA-rated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
- The NX 200t is rated at 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
- The Nissan Murano has a slight edge in fuel economy, with an EPA-rated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
The Nissan Murano and Lexus NX 200t are two popular compact SUVs that offer a blend of style, comfort, and practicality. Both vehicles have their strengths and weaknesses, making it crucial for buyers to understand the differences to make an informed decision. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of both SUVs, including design, performance, interior, technology, safety, and value, to help you determine which one best meets your needs.
Design
Exterior:
The Nissan Murano boasts a bold and muscular exterior with sharp lines and aggressive angles. Its V-Motion grille and floating roofline give it a sporty and modern look. The Lexus NX 200t, on the other hand, exudes a more refined and elegant aesthetic. Its spindle grille, sleek headlights, and angular body lines convey a sense of sophistication.
Interior:
Both SUVs offer spacious and well-appointed interiors. The Murano’s cabin features a clean and functional design with comfortable seats and ample legroom. The NX 200t’s interior is more luxurious, with premium materials, soft-touch surfaces, and a driver-centric layout.
Performance
Engine and Power:
The Nissan Murano is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. The Lexus NX 200t features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both engines offer ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising.
Fuel Economy:
The Murano has a slight edge in fuel economy, with an EPA-rated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The NX 200t is rated at 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Handling and Ride Quality:
The Murano provides a comfortable and stable ride with its well-tuned suspension. The NX 200t offers a more agile handling experience with its precise steering and firmer suspension.
Interior Features
Comfort and Convenience:
Both SUVs offer a range of comfort and convenience features. The Murano comes standard with heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. The NX 200t adds amenities such as ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic moonroof.
Cargo Space:
The Murano offers a generous 32.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row of seats, which expands to 67.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The NX 200t has a slightly smaller cargo capacity of 23.4 cubic feet, which increases to 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Technology
Infotainment Systems:
The Murano features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The NX 200t comes with a 10.3-inch touchscreen display with a more intuitive user interface and navigation.
Connectivity and Safety Features:
Both SUVs offer a suite of connectivity and safety features, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. The NX 200t has the advantage of a standard rear cross-traffic alert system and adaptive cruise control.
Safety
Crash Test Ratings:
Both the Murano and NX 200t have received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Standard Safety Features:
Both SUVs come standard with a comprehensive set of safety features, including airbags, traction control, and stability control.
Value
Pricing:
The Nissan Murano has a starting price of $32,540, while the Lexus NX 200t starts at $37,790.
Warranty:
The Murano comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The NX 200t has a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.
The Final Verdict
The Nissan Murano and Lexus NX 200t are both excellent compact SUVs with their own unique strengths. The Murano offers a spacious interior, fuel-efficient engine, and a lower price point. The NX 200t provides a more luxurious cabin, agile handling, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual priorities and budget.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The Nissan Murano has a slight edge in fuel economy, with an EPA-rated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The Nissan Murano offers a more spacious interior with 32.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row of seats.
Q: Which SUV has a more luxurious interior?
A: The Lexus NX 200t has a more luxurious interior with premium materials, soft-touch surfaces, and a driver-centric layout.
