What To Know
- The Nissan Murano’s fuel economy is rated at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model.
- The V6 model gets 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the hybrid model achieves 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
- The Murano appeals to buyers who prioritize bold styling and a luxurious interior, while the Highlander caters to those seeking a more rugged and fuel-efficient option.
When it comes to choosing a midsize SUV, the Nissan Murano and Toyota Highlander stand out as two top contenders. Both vehicles offer a spacious cabin, impressive performance, and a wide range of features. However, each SUV has its unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the details of the Nissan Murano vs Toyota Highlander to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Styling
The Nissan Murano exudes a bold and sporty presence with its sleek lines and aggressive front grille. Its floating roof design and angular taillights add a touch of sophistication. In contrast, the Toyota Highlander has a more conservative and rugged appearance. Its boxy shape and prominent grille give it a commanding presence.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both the Murano and Highlander offer spacious interiors with ample legroom and headroom for passengers. The Murano’s cabin features a modern and upscale design, with soft-touch materials and a floating center console. The Highlander’s interior is more functional and durable, with a focus on practicality.
Performance and Handling
The Nissan Murano is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. It provides ample power for everyday driving and towing. The Toyota Highlander offers three engine options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter V6, and a hybrid powertrain. The V6 engine produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, delivering a more spirited performance.
Fuel Economy
The Nissan Murano’s fuel economy is rated at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel-drive model. The Toyota Highlander‘s fuel economy varies depending on the engine option. The four-cylinder model delivers the best fuel economy at 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The V6 model gets 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the hybrid model achieves 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Safety Features
Both the Nissan Murano and Toyota Highlander have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Murano comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Highlander also offers a comprehensive array of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams.
Technology and Connectivity
The Nissan Murano’s infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also offers a Bose premium audio system and navigation. The Toyota Highlander‘s infotainment system has a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen display with similar features. It also includes a JBL premium audio system and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Price and Value
The Nissan Murano has a starting price of $32,510 for the base model. The Toyota Highlander starts at $35,850 for the base model. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels with varying features and pricing. The Murano offers a more affordable entry point, while the Highlander has a more comprehensive suite of standard features.
Final Thoughts
The Nissan Murano and Toyota Highlander are both excellent midsize SUVs that offer a blend of style, performance, and practicality. The Murano appeals to buyers who prioritize bold styling and a luxurious interior, while the Highlander caters to those seeking a more rugged and fuel-efficient option. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Toyota Highlander V6 model has a more powerful engine than the Nissan Murano.
Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Highlander hybrid model has the best fuel economy among all the options.
Q: Which SUV has a larger infotainment screen?
A: The Toyota Highlander has a larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen compared to the Nissan Murano‘s 8-inch screen.
Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Nissan Murano has a lower starting price than the Toyota Highlander.
Q: Which SUV has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Nissan Murano and Toyota Highlander have earned top safety ratings from the NHTSA.