Crossover clash: nissan murano vs vw tiguan – which suv reigns supreme?

The Nissan Murano and VW Tiguan are two formidable contenders in the midsize SUV segment. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality. However, discerning buyers may wonder which SUV reigns supreme. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Nissan Murano and VW Tiguan, helping you make an informed decision.

Performance: Power and Fuel Efficiency

Engine Options:
The Murano offers two engine options: a 3.5-liter V6 with 260 horsepower and a 2.5-liter inline-4 with 191 horsepower. The Tiguan, on the other hand, features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 with various power outputs ranging from 184 to 248 horsepower.

Fuel Economy:
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Tiguan holds a slight edge over the Murano. The base Tiguan with front-wheel drive achieves an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the Murano returns 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Interior: Space, Comfort, and Features

Passenger Space:
The Murano offers more spacious interiors than the Tiguan. It provides ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, making it an ideal choice for families or those who frequently transport passengers.

Cargo Capacity:
The Murano also boasts a larger cargo capacity than the Tiguan. With the rear seats folded down, the Murano offers a maximum cargo volume of 67 cubic feet, while the Tiguan offers 56.1 cubic feet.

Infotainment and Features:
Both the Murano and Tiguan come equipped with user-friendly infotainment systems and a range of features. The Murano features an 8-inch touchscreen display, while the Tiguan offers a 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen depending on the trim level. Both vehicles offer navigation, smartphone integration, and a premium sound system.

Safety: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

NHTSA and IIHS Ratings:
Both the Murano and Tiguan have earned excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Murano received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, while the Tiguan earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS.

Driver Assistance Features:
The Murano and Tiguan offer a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Tiguan additionally offers features such as rear cross-traffic alert and lane-keeping assist.

Exterior: Design and Styling

Design Philosophy:
The Murano exudes a bold and muscular design, with a prominent grille and sharp lines. The Tiguan, on the other hand, has a more conservative and refined exterior, with a sleek and aerodynamic silhouette.

Styling Options:
Both the Murano and Tiguan offer a range of styling options to suit different tastes. The Murano is available in various trim levels, including the SV, SL, and Platinum, while the Tiguan offers the S, SE, SEL, and R-Line trims. Each trim level features unique exterior details and color options.

Off-Road Capabilities: Adventure-Ready or Not?

All-Wheel Drive Systems:
Both the Murano and Tiguan are available with all-wheel drive systems. The Murano’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system provides enhanced traction on slippery surfaces, while the Tiguan’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system offers a more rugged and off-road-oriented experience.

Ground Clearance:
The Tiguan has a slightly higher ground clearance than the Murano, with 8.6 inches compared to 7.9 inches. This added ground clearance gives the Tiguan a better advantage when navigating rough terrain.

Pricing and Value: Bang for Your Buck

Starting Prices:
The Nissan Murano has a slightly lower starting price than the VW Tiguan. The base Murano SV starts at $32,510, while the base Tiguan S starts at $25,995.

Trim Level Comparisons:
When comparing mid-range trim levels, the Murano SL and Tiguan SEL offer comparable features and pricing. However, the Tiguan SEL R-Line stands out with its sporty styling and performance upgrades.

Which SUV Reigns Supreme?

The Nissan Murano and VW Tiguan are both excellent midsize SUVs with unique strengths and weaknesses. The Murano offers more spacious interiors, a larger cargo capacity, and a lower starting price. The Tiguan, on the other hand, provides better fuel efficiency, more advanced driver assistance features, and enhanced off-road capabilities.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize space, comfort, and affordability, the Nissan Murano is an excellent option. If you seek fuel efficiency, advanced safety features, and off-road prowess, the VW Tiguan is the way to go.

Information You Need to Know

1. Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
The Nissan Murano offers a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine with 260 horsepower, while the VW Tiguan’s 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine produces up to 248 horsepower.

2. Which SUV has a larger cargo capacity?
The Nissan Murano has a larger cargo capacity of 67 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, compared to the VW Tiguan’s 56.1 cubic feet.

3. Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
The VW Tiguan has a better fuel economy than the Nissan Murano, with an EPA-estimated 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the base front-wheel drive model.

4. Which SUV is more spacious?
The Nissan Murano offers more spacious interiors than the VW Tiguan, providing ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.

5. Which SUV has more advanced safety features?
The VW Tiguan offers more advanced driver assistance features than the Nissan Murano, including lane-keeping assist and rear cross-traffic alert.