What To Know
- The Atlas, on the other hand, boasts an even more spacious interior with three rows of seating and a massive cargo capacity.
- The Murano’s EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, compared to the Atlas’s 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
- While the Atlas is slightly more expensive, it offers a more spacious interior, more powerful engines, and a wider array of safety features.
When it comes to midsize SUVs, the Nissan Murano and Volkswagen Atlas stand out as formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, impressive features, and capable performance. However, each has its unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Nissan Murano and Volkswagen Atlas to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Design
The Nissan Murano boasts a sleek and sporty exterior design. Its sharp lines, angular headlights, and floating roofline give it a distinctive presence on the road. In contrast, the Volkswagen Atlas exudes a more rugged and imposing silhouette. It features a bold front grille, muscular fenders, and a boxier overall shape.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both the Murano and Atlas offer ample interior space for passengers and cargo. The Murano’s cabin is well-appointed with premium materials and comfortable seating. It also features a generous cargo area with a hands-free power liftgate for added convenience. The Atlas, on the other hand, boasts an even more spacious interior with three rows of seating and a massive cargo capacity. Its seats are equally comfortable and supportive, ensuring a pleasant ride for all occupants.
Features and Technology
The Murano and Atlas are well-equipped with a range of advanced features and technologies. The Murano comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of safety features. The Atlas offers a larger 10.2-inch touchscreen, a premium sound system, and a wider array of driver-assistance technologies.
Powertrain and Performance
The Nissan Murano is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Volkswagen Atlas, meanwhile, offers a choice of two engines: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 235 horsepower or a 3.6-liter V6 with 276 horsepower. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of performance, the Atlas has the edge in acceleration and top speed. However, the Murano’s CVT provides smoother gear transitions, resulting in a more refined driving experience.
Fuel Economy
The Nissan Murano offers slightly better fuel economy than the Volkswagen Atlas. The Murano’s EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, compared to the Atlas’s 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Safety
Both the Murano and Atlas have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Murano comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Atlas offers an even more extensive range of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beams.
Price and Value
The Nissan Murano has a starting price of $32,500, while the Volkswagen Atlas starts at $34,995. While the Atlas is slightly more expensive, it offers a more spacious interior, more powerful engines, and a wider array of safety features.
Which SUV is Right for You?
The Nissan Murano and Volkswagen Atlas are both excellent midsize SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Murano offers a sleek design, a refined driving experience, and better fuel economy. The Atlas, on the other hand, provides more interior space, more powerful engines, and a more comprehensive suite of safety features.
Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize style, fuel efficiency, and a smooth ride, the Nissan Murano is a solid choice. If you need a spacious interior, powerful performance, and the latest safety technologies, the Volkswagen Atlas is a better fit.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q1. Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A1. The Volkswagen Atlas has a more spacious interior with three rows of seating and a massive cargo capacity.
Q2. Which SUV offers better fuel economy?
A2. The Nissan Murano offers slightly better fuel economy than the Volkswagen Atlas.
Q3. Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A3. The Volkswagen Atlas offers a more powerful engine, with a maximum of 276 horsepower compared to the Murano’s 260 horsepower.
Q4. Which SUV has a better safety rating?
A4. Both the Nissan Murano and Volkswagen Atlas have received high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. The Atlas offers a more extensive range of safety features.
Q5. Which SUV is more affordable?
A5. The Nissan Murano has a lower starting price than the Volkswagen Atlas.