In the crowded SUV market, where comfort, technology, power, and reliability are essential, the Nissan Murano vs Toyota Highlander have each established a solid reputation. These two models cater to slightly different niches but appeal to those seeking a capable family vehicle with advanced safety features, comfortable interiors, and versatile space. Here, we’ll provide a detailed comparison, examining their features, performance, interior, technology, safety, and more to help prospective buyers make an informed decision.
1. Overview of the Nissan Murano vs Toyota Highlander
The Nissan Murano is a midsize crossover SUV with a sleek, sporty design and advanced technology. It targets drivers who prioritise comfort and style over ruggedness. First launched in 2002, the Murano has evolved significantly, with the latest generation offering a more refined look and additional safety and technology features.
On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander is a larger midsize SUV that is more suited to family-oriented buyers who want a practical vehicle. Known for its reliability and ample passenger and cargo space, the Highlander has been a strong competitor since its debut in 2001. Toyota’s consistent emphasis on safety, durability, and performance has made it a popular choice for families.
2. Engine and Performance
Nissan Murano
The Nissan Murano has a 3.5-litre V6 engine, generating approximately 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Murano delivers a smooth and quiet ride, ideal for urban commutes and highway cruising. The CVT is designed to enhance fuel efficiency, and the Murano averages around 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander, by contrast, offers a range of engine options. The base model features a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, producing 185 horsepower. The higher trims come with a more powerful 3.5-litre V6 engine, which generates 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. For buyers seeking eco-friendliness and efficiency, a hybrid version combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with electric motors, offering a fuel economy of around 36 mpg combined.
Regarding raw power, the Highlander’s V6 engine outperforms the Murano’s. The hybrid option also provides a significant advantage for fuel-conscious buyers, which the Murano lacks.
3. Interior and Comfort
Nissan Murano
The Murano’s interior is one of its key selling points. It offers a premium feel with soft-touch materials, leather upholstery in higher trims, and high-quality finishes. It comfortably seats five passengers with generous legroom and headroom for both front and rear occupants. The seats are notably supportive and ideal for long drives, and the Murano’s “Zero Gravity” seats provide added comfort, inspired by NASA’s research to reduce pressure on the body.
Cargo space in the Murano is about 32.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 67 cubic feet with the seats folded down. While this is decent, it falls short compared to the Highlander’s cargo capacity.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander shines in interior space and flexibility. As a three-row SUV, it offers seating for up to eight passengers (or seven with the captain’s chairs option). Families will appreciate the spacious third-row seating, although adults might find it cramped on longer journeys. The cabin materials are high quality, and the design feels clean and functional.
The Highlander also excels in cargo capacity, offering around 16 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 84.3 cubic feet with the second and third rows down. This makes it more suitable for families needing additional luggage or a sports equipment room.
4. Technology and Infotainment
Nissan Murano
The Nissan Murano comes equipped with the NissanConnect infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility as standard across all trims. The interface is straightforward, and higher trims offer features such as a premium Bose audio system, navigation, and additional USB ports.
A unique feature of the Murano is its Intelligent Around View Monitor, which provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle. This makes it easier to manoeuvre in tight parking spaces. The Murano also offers a Wi-Fi hotspot, ensuring passengers stay connected.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander boasts a more advanced infotainment system, especially in the higher trims. The base model includes an 8-inch touchscreen, but higher trims feature a 12.3-inch display, offering a more immersive and user-friendly experience. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility are standard, along with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and five USB ports.
The Highlander’s JBL premium audio system, available on higher trims, offers superior sound quality compared to the Murano’s audio options. Additionally, Toyota’s infotainment system is known for its reliability and ease of use, which adds to its appeal.
5. Safety Features
The Nissan Murano and Toyota Highlander have advanced safety features, reflecting their commitment to passenger protection.
Nissan Murano
The Nissan Murano comes with Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard, which includes features such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, blind-spot warning, and high-beam assist. Higher trims include adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and the ProPILOT Assist system, which provides semi-autonomous driving capabilities and benefits long highway drives.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander also comes standard with a suite of safety features called Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which includes pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also available.
Both SUVs earn high safety ratings, but the Highlander has a slight edge thanks to Toyota’s reputation for safety technology. The Highlander’s structural design is robust, providing a safer ride in various crash scenarios.
6. Driving Experience and Handling
Nissan Murano
The Murano is designed for a smooth and comfortable ride, prioritising passenger comfort over sporty handling. Its suspension system is tuned to absorb road imperfections, offering a cushioned experience. However, the Murano’s handling can feel slightly less responsive on winding roads, and its performance may not be thrilling for those looking for a sporty SUV.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander provides a more versatile driving experience, especially with the V6 engine option. It offers a balanced ride suitable for city driving and longer journeys. The steering is responsive, and the all-wheel-drive system enhances traction on slippery or uneven surfaces, making it more capable in rough conditions than the Murano.
The Highlander’s suspension system balances comfort and stability, offering a smooth ride while also allowing the driver to feel composed when cornering or driving at higher speeds.
7. Fuel Economy and Environmental Impact
Nissan Murano
The Murano’s V6 engine provides respectable fuel efficiency for its class, with an average of around 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. However, the lack of a hybrid option might be a drawback for drivers focused on fuel economy, as more efficient options are available in the same segment.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander takes the lead in this area with its hybrid option, which delivers approximately 36 mpg combined, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class. The hybrid version also reduces carbon emissions, an appealing factor for environmentally-conscious buyers. Even the non-hybrid V6 Highlander is pretty efficient, providing mileage similar to the Murano’s V6 but with more power.
8. Price and Value
Nissan Murano
The starting price for the Nissan Murano is generally more affordable, with base trims priced slightly lower than those of the Highlander. However, the Murano lacks some interior space and features that the Highlander offers. This lower price may appeal to buyers who prioritise style and comfort but don’t necessarily need a third row or extra cargo space.
Toyota Highlander
The Highlander is priced higher, especially for trims and hybrid models. However, its added space, safety features, and fuel efficiency can provide more excellent long-term value. The Highlander’s higher price point is often justified for families looking for a reliable, spacious, and efficient SUV.
9. Pros and Cons
Nissan Murano Pros:
- Stylish and modern design
- Comfortable “Zero Gravity” seats
- Competitive price point
- Quiet, smooth ride
Nissan Murano Cons:
- No third-row seating
- Limited cargo space
- Lack of a hybrid option
- Handling is less sporty
Toyota Highlander Pros:
- Flexible seating for up to eight passengers
- Hybrid option with excellent fuel economy
- Advanced safety features and high safety ratings
- Larger cargo capacity
Toyota Highlander Cons:
- Higher starting price
- The third row may be cramped for adults
- V6 engine models can be pricier
Conclusion: Which SUV is Right for You?
The choice between the Nissan Murano and Toyota Highlander depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for a stylish, comfortable, and tech-savvy SUV without needing a third row, the Murano offers an excellent package at a reasonable price. It suits couples or smaller families who value design and comfort over rugged performance or maximum space.
On the other hand, if you’re seeking a family-oriented vehicle with seating for more passengers, greater cargo space, and better fuel efficiency, the Toyota Highlander is likely the better option. Its hybrid model offers significant savings in fuel costs, and the advanced safety features make it a reliable choice for families.
Both SUVs are strong contenders, and each has its strengths. Your lifestyle, needs, and budget should ultimately guide your decision.