The ultimate comparison: nissan murano vs lexus rx 350 – unlocking the best suv for you

When it comes to choosing a premium midsize crossover SUV, the Nissan Murano and the Lexus RX 350 are two of the most popular options on the market. Both vehicles offer a spacious cabin, a comfortable ride, and a host of advanced features. But which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Nissan Murano against the RX 350 to help you make an informed decision.

Exterior Design

The Nissan Murano and the RX 350 have distinct exterior designs that cater to different tastes. The Murano features a more rugged and aggressive look, with a bold grille, sharp lines, and a sloping roofline. In contrast, the RX 350 exudes a more refined and elegant appearance, with a sleek silhouette, a spindle grille, and subtle curves.

Interior Space and Comfort

Both the Murano and the RX 350 offer spacious and comfortable cabins. The Murano has a slightly more generous interior volume, providing more legroom and headroom for passengers. However, the RX 350’s cabin is more luxurious, with premium materials and a more refined design. Both vehicles offer heated and ventilated front seats, as well as a panoramic sunroof.

Performance and Handling

The Murano comes with a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. The RX 350, on the other hand, offers a choice between a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, or a hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 308 horsepower. In terms of handling, the Murano provides a more engaging driving experience with its responsive steering and agile handling. The RX 350, however, offers a smoother and more refined ride.

Fuel Economy

The Nissan Murano has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The RX 350 with the V6 engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the hybrid model has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 31 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

Safety Features

Both the Murano and the RX 350 come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The RX 350, however, offers a few additional safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Technology and Infotainment

The Murano and the RX 350 both come with user-friendly infotainment systems. The Murano features an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, while the RX 350 has a 12.3-inch touchscreen with the Lexus Enform system. Both systems offer navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium sound system.

Reliability and Maintenance

The Nissan Murano and the Lexus RX 350 have both received high reliability ratings from J.D. Power and Associates. The RX 350, however, has a slightly better track record for reliability and maintenance costs.

Which One is Right for You?

The Nissan Murano and the Lexus RX 350 are both excellent choices for those seeking a premium midsize crossover SUV. The Murano offers a more rugged and sporty design, while the RX 350 provides a more refined and luxurious experience. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual preferences and needs.

Summary

Whether you prioritize performance, comfort, or technology, the Nissan Murano and the Lexus RX 350 offer a compelling blend of features and capabilities. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this comparison, you can make an informed decision that will lead you to the ideal vehicle for your lifestyle and driving needs.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Lexus RX 350 with the V6 engine has a more powerful engine than the Nissan Murano.

Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious cabin?
A: The Nissan Murano has a slightly more spacious cabin than the Lexus RX 350.

Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy?
A: The Lexus RX 350 hybrid model has better fuel economy than the Nissan Murano and the RX 350 with the V6 engine.

Q: Which vehicle has more safety features?
A: The Lexus RX 350 has a few more safety features than the Nissan Murano, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Q: Which vehicle has a better infotainment system?
A: Both the Nissan Murano and the Lexus RX 350 have user-friendly infotainment systems, but the RX 350’s system has a larger touchscreen and more features.

Q: Which vehicle is more reliable?
A: The Lexus RX 350 has a slightly better track record for reliability and maintenance costs than the Nissan Murano.