What To Know
- The Toyota 4Runner with the V6 engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 17 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway, while the four-cylinder engine achieves 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
- However, if you require a vehicle with exceptional off-road capabilities and a proven track record of reliability, the 4Runner is the clear winner.
- The Nissan Murano has better fuel economy than the Toyota 4Runner, with EPA-estimated ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway compared to 17….
The Nissan Murano and Toyota 4Runner stand as two formidable contenders in the midsize SUV segment, each boasting unique strengths and characteristics. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the intricacies of these vehicles, analyzing their performance, features, and overall value to determine which emerges as the ultimate SUV champion.
Performance: Power and Fuel Efficiency
Engine and Powertrain
The Nissan Murano offers a single engine option, a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient power delivery.
In contrast, the Toyota 4Runner provides two engine choices: a 4.0-liter V6 with 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.7-liter inline-four with 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. The V6 engine is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, while the four-cylinder engine is equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel Economy
The Nissan Murano returns an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The Toyota 4Runner with the V6 engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 17 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway, while the four-cylinder engine achieves 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
Interior: Comfort and Convenience
Passenger Space and Cargo Capacity
The Nissan Murano offers a spacious and comfortable interior with ample legroom and headroom for all occupants. It provides 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row of seats and 74.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
The Toyota 4Runner provides a more rugged interior with less overall space than the Murano. It offers 40.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row of seats and 89.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Features and Amenities
The Nissan Murano comes well-equipped with standard features such as an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels add features such as a sunroof, leather seats, and a Bose premium audio system.
The Toyota 4Runner offers a more basic interior with fewer standard features. However, it does provide a variety of off-road upgrades, such as skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a locking rear differential.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Features
Both the Nissan Murano and Toyota 4Runner offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. The 4Runner also offers additional features such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring.
Reliability Ratings
The Toyota 4Runner has a reputation for exceptional reliability, consistently ranking among the top performers in J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study. The Nissan Murano has also received positive reliability ratings, although it falls slightly behind the 4Runner in this regard.
Off-Road Performance
The Toyota 4Runner is the clear winner in terms of off-road performance. It offers a variety of off-road features, such as a locking rear differential, hill descent control, and a multi-terrain select system. The Murano, on the other hand, is primarily designed for on-road driving and has limited off-road capabilities.
Price and Value
MSRP and Trims
The Nissan Murano has a starting MSRP of $33,245 for the base S trim level. The top-of-the-line Platinum trim level starts at $47,295.
The Toyota 4Runner has a starting MSRP of $37,515 for the base SR5 trim level. The top-of-the-line TRD Pro trim level starts at $50,470.
Value Proposition
The Nissan Murano offers a more affordable starting price and a more well-equipped interior than the Toyota 4Runner. However, the 4Runner provides superior off-road capabilities and a reputation for exceptional reliability.
Final Verdict: The Ultimate SUV Champion
Ultimately, the choice between the Nissan Murano and Toyota 4Runner depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize on-road comfort, fuel efficiency, and value, the Murano is an excellent choice. However, if you require a vehicle with exceptional off-road capabilities and a proven track record of reliability, the 4Runner is the clear winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy?
A: The Nissan Murano has better fuel economy than the Toyota 4Runner, with EPA-estimated ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway compared to 17 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway for the 4Runner with the V6 engine.
Q: Which vehicle has more passenger space?
A: The Toyota 4Runner has more passenger space than the Nissan Murano, with 40.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row of seats compared to 38.1 cubic feet in the Murano.
Q: Which vehicle has more off-road capabilities?
A: The Toyota 4Runner has superior off-road capabilities than the Nissan Murano, offering features such as a locking rear differential, hill descent control, and a multi-terrain select system.