Battle of the beasts: nissan murano vs mazda cx-9 – who will emerge as the suv king?

When it comes to comfortable and versatile family SUVs, the Nissan Murano and Mazda CX-9 are two popular choices. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, advanced features, and powerful engines. But which one is the right choice for you? To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compared these two SUVs in various aspects.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Murano and CX-9 offer three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The Murano has a slightly larger interior, with more legroom and headroom in the second and third rows. However, the CX-9’s seats are more supportive and comfortable, especially on long drives.

Performance and Handling

The Nissan Murano comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Mazda CX-9 offers a more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

While the Murano’s engine provides adequate power, the CX-9’s turbocharged engine offers significantly better acceleration and towing capacity. The CX-9 also handles more precisely, with a firmer suspension and responsive steering.

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is an important factor to consider, especially for family vehicles. The Nissan Murano has a slight advantage in fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The Mazda CX-9 returns 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Safety Features

Both the Murano and CX-9 come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The CX-9, however, offers a more advanced safety system called i-Activsense, which includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

Technology and Infotainment

The Murano and CX-9 both feature user-friendly infotainment systems with touchscreen displays. The Murano’s system is slightly larger, at 8 inches, while the CX-9’s is 7 inches. Both systems offer smartphone integration, navigation, and a variety of apps. The CX-9, however, has a more intuitive interface and better sound quality.

Value and Pricing

The Nissan Murano has a starting price of $31,550, while the Mazda CX-9 starts at $33,870. The Murano offers more standard features at its base trim level, while the CX-9 has a more powerful engine and advanced safety features.

Ultimately, the best choice between the Nissan Murano and Mazda CX-9 depends on your individual priorities. If you value space, fuel efficiency, and a lower price, the Murano is a good option. If you prioritize performance, safety, and technology, the CX-9 is the better choice.

Verdict: Which SUV Is Right for You?

• Choose the Nissan Murano if:
• You need a spacious and comfortable interior
• You want good fuel economy
• You’re on a tighter budget

• Choose the Mazda CX-9 if:
• You want a more powerful and responsive engine
• You prioritize safety and advanced technology
• You’re willing to pay a bit more for a premium experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which SUV has a better third row?
A: The Nissan Murano has more legroom and headroom in the third row, making it more comfortable for adults.

Q: Is the Mazda CX-9 more reliable than the Nissan Murano?
A: According to J.D. Power, the Mazda CX-9 has a slightly higher reliability rating than the Nissan Murano.

Q: Which SUV has a better warranty?
A: Both the Nissan Murano and Mazda CX-9 come with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.