Nissan murano vs pathfinder: the battle for space, style, and performance
What To Know
- In contrast, the Pathfinder has a more rugged and utilitarian design with a boxier shape and a prominent grille.
- The Murano achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the Pathfinder gets 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
- The Nissan Murano has better fuel economy than the Pathfinder, with an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to choosing a mid-size SUV, the Nissan Murano and Pathfinder are two popular options that offer a combination of style, space, and performance. But which one is the better choice for you? This comprehensive comparison will help you weigh the pros and cons of each vehicle and make an informed decision.
Exterior Design
The Nissan Murano boasts a sleek and modern exterior with sharp lines and a bold grille. Its sloping roofline and 19-inch wheels give it a sporty and dynamic look. In contrast, the Pathfinder has a more rugged and utilitarian design with a boxier shape and a prominent grille. Its 18-inch wheels provide a more off-road-oriented stance.
Interior Space and Comfort
Inside, the Murano offers a spacious and well-equipped cabin with comfortable seating for five adults. The dashboard features a user-friendly infotainment system and a premium sound system. The Pathfinder has a more spacious interior with seating for up to seven passengers. Its seats are equally comfortable, and the rear seats fold down to create ample cargo space.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Both the Murano and Pathfinder are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. However, the Murano’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) provides smoother acceleration and better fuel economy than the Pathfinder’s 9-speed automatic transmission. The Murano achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the Pathfinder gets 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Safety Features
Both SUVs come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Murano also includes adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system as standard equipment. The Pathfinder offers these features as part of its optional safety packages.
Price and Value
The Nissan Murano has a starting price of $33,730, while the Pathfinder starts at $36,990. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels and options, so the final price will vary depending on your specific configuration. However, the Murano generally offers a better value for money, with a lower starting price and a more generous standard equipment list.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Pathfinder has a slight edge over the Murano in terms of off-road capabilities. It features a more rugged suspension, all-wheel drive with a locking differential, and hill descent control. The Murano, on the other hand, is better suited for on-road driving and has less impressive off-road capabilities.
Overall Verdict
The Nissan Murano and Pathfinder are both excellent choices in the mid-size SUV segment. The Murano offers a more stylish and fuel-efficient option, while the Pathfinder provides more space and better off-road capabilities. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual priorities and needs.
FAQs
Q: Which SUV has the better fuel economy?
A: The Nissan Murano has better fuel economy than the Pathfinder, with an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which SUV has more seating capacity?
A: The Nissan Pathfinder has more seating capacity than the Murano, with seating for up to seven passengers.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-road driving?
A: The Nissan Pathfinder has better off-road capabilities than the Murano, with a more rugged suspension, all-wheel drive with a locking differential, and hill descent control.
