Nissan murano vs. dodge journey: the essential guide to finding your perfect suv

In the competitive realm of midsize SUVs, two formidable contenders emerge: the Nissan Murano and the Dodge Journey. Both vehicles boast distinctive personalities, offering a blend of practicality, style, and performance. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of these two SUVs, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and which one reigns supreme for your automotive needs.

Performance and Power

Nissan Murano: The Murano features a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient power delivery.

Dodge Journey: The Journey offers a range of engine options, including a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder, a 3.6-liter V6, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder. The 3.6-liter V6 produces 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the turbocharged 4-cylinder delivers 236 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. All engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy

Nissan Murano: With the standard V6 engine and CVT, the Murano achieves EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

Dodge Journey: The Journey’s fuel economy varies depending on the engine option. The 2.4-liter 4-cylinder returns 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the 3.6-liter V6 gets 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged 4-cylinder offers the best fuel economy, with 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

Interior and Space

Nissan Murano: The Murano’s interior is spacious and well-appointed, with comfortable seating for up to five passengers. It features a user-friendly infotainment system with a large touchscreen and smartphone integration. Cargo space is generous, with 32.1 cubic feet behind the second row of seats and 67 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

Dodge Journey: The Journey offers more interior space than the Murano, with seating for up to seven passengers. However, the third row of seats is cramped and best suited for children. The infotainment system is less advanced than the Murano’s, but it still includes a touchscreen and smartphone connectivity. Cargo space measures 37.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 67.6 cubic feet behind the second row, and 106.7 cubic feet with all seats folded down.

Safety Features

Nissan Murano: The Murano comes standard with a suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. It also offers adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system as options.

Dodge Journey: The Journey’s standard safety features include traction control, electronic stability control, and airbags. It also offers optional advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.

Reliability and Maintenance

Nissan Murano: The Murano has a generally reliable track record, with an average annual repair cost of around $500. It is known for its longevity and durability.

Dodge Journey: The Journey has a less reliable reputation than the Murano, with an average annual repair cost of around $700. It has been criticized for its transmission problems and electrical issues.

Price and Value

Nissan Murano: The Murano has a starting price of $32,500. It offers a well-rounded package of performance, fuel economy, space, and safety features for its price.

Dodge Journey: The Journey has a lower starting price of $28,495. However, its base trim level is less well-equipped than the Murano’s. Higher trim levels can approach the Murano’s price range.

Summary: The Best Midsize SUV for You

The Nissan Murano and Dodge Journey are both capable midsize SUVs with unique strengths and weaknesses. The Murano offers a more refined driving experience, better fuel economy, and a more reliable track record. The Journey provides more interior space, a lower starting price, and a wider range of engine options. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your priorities and budget.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Dodge Journey has more cargo space than the Nissan Murano, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 67.6 cubic feet behind the second row, and 106.7 cubic feet with all seats folded down.

Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: The Nissan Murano is generally considered to be more reliable than the Dodge Journey, with an average annual repair cost of around $500 compared to $700 for the Journey.

Q: Which SUV has a better safety rating?
A: The Nissan Murano has a slightly better safety rating than the Dodge Journey, with a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) compared to four stars for the Journey.