Safety first: nissan murano vs. subaru outback – which offers the most protection?

When it comes to spacious and versatile SUVs, the Nissan Murano and the Subaru Outback are two of the most popular choices in the market. Both vehicles offer a host of impressive features, but which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Nissan Murano vs Outback, examining their performance, interior, technology, safety, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.

Performance

Engine and Powertrain:

The Nissan Murano is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available as an option.

The Subaru Outback, on the other hand, offers a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a CVT and all-wheel drive is standard.

Fuel Economy:

In terms of fuel economy, the Nissan Murano with front-wheel drive achieves up to 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. With all-wheel drive, those numbers drop slightly to 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

The Subaru Outback with the 2.5-liter engine gets up to 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged 2.4-liter engine sacrifices some fuel economy, achieving up to 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

Interior

Space and Comfort:

Both the Nissan Murano and the Subaru Outback offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Murano has a slightly larger cabin, with more legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats. However, the Outback’s cargo capacity is slightly larger, with 21.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

Features and Amenities:

The Nissan Murano comes standard with features such as dual-zone climate control, a 6-speaker audio system, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Available features include heated and cooled seats, a sunroof, and a Bose premium audio system.

The Subaru Outback also comes with a host of standard features, including dual-zone climate control, a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a 4-speaker audio system. Available features include heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system.

Technology

Infotainment System:

The Nissan Murano’s infotainment system is easy to use and responsive. It features a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Navigation is available as an option.

The Subaru Outback‘s infotainment system is also user-friendly and features a 6.5-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and navigation is available as an option.

Driver Assistance Features:

The Nissan Murano offers a range of driver assistance features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Outback also comes with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.

Safety

Crash Test Ratings:

Both the Nissan Murano and the Subaru Outback have earned excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Safety Features:

The Nissan Murano comes standard with a full suite of airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Available safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning.

The Subaru Outback also comes with a full suite of airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Available safety features include blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control with lane centering, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.

Value

Pricing:

The Nissan Murano has a starting price of $32,500, while the Subaru Outback starts at $27,845.

Warranty:

The Nissan Murano comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The Subaru Outback comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Which SUV Is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best choice between the Nissan Murano and the Subaru Outback depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, the Murano is a better choice. If fuel economy and off-road capability are more important to you, the Outback is the way to go.

Alternatives:

If you’re still not sure which SUV is right for you, consider these alternatives:

• Honda Passport
• Toyota Highlander
• Mazda CX-9

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Which SUV has better fuel economy?

The Subaru Outback with the 2.5-liter engine has better fuel economy than the Nissan Murano.

Which SUV has more cargo space?

The Subaru Outback has slightly more cargo space than the Nissan Murano.

Which SUV has a better safety rating?

Both the Nissan Murano and the Subaru Outback have excellent safety ratings.

Which SUV is more affordable?

The Subaru Outback has a lower starting price than the Nissan Murano.

Which SUV is better for off-roading?

The Subaru Outback is better for off-roading thanks to its standard all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance.