Which suv rules the family-friendly adventure scene: nissan murano vs subaru outback?

In the competitive world of midsize SUVs, the Nissan Murano and Subaru Outback stand out as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a blend of style, performance, and versatility that appeals to a wide range of drivers. However, each SUV has its unique strengths and weaknesses, making it essential for prospective buyers to carefully consider their needs before making a decision.

Performance and Handling

The Nissan Murano and Subaru Outback offer different powertrain options that cater to varying driving styles. The Murano comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The Outback, on the other hand, offers a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While less powerful than the Murano, the Outback’s engine is more fuel-efficient, achieving an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway compared to the Murano’s 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

In terms of handling, the Murano offers a more car-like experience with its responsive steering and well-balanced suspension. The Outback, with its standard all-wheel-drive system and higher ground clearance, excels in off-road conditions and provides a more rugged driving experience.

Interior and Space

The Nissan Murano and Subaru Outback offer spacious and comfortable interiors with ample room for passengers and cargo. The Murano’s cabin features high-quality materials and a sleek design, while the Outback’s interior is more rugged and functional.

In terms of space, the Murano offers more legroom in the front and rear seats than the Outback. The Murano also has a larger cargo area with 31.1 cubic feet of space behind the second row of seats and 67 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Outback offers 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row of seats and 75.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

Safety and Technology

Both the Nissan Murano and Subaru Outback are equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The Murano offers additional safety features such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Outback comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight system, which includes lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.

In terms of technology, the Murano and Outback offer similar amenities, including infotainment systems with touchscreens, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation. The Murano’s infotainment system is slightly more advanced, featuring a larger touchscreen and a more intuitive interface.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

The Nissan Murano and Subaru Outback have a good reputation for reliability, with both vehicles receiving above-average ratings from Consumer Reports. In terms of ownership costs, the Outback is slightly cheaper to own than the Murano, with lower insurance premiums and maintenance costs.

Which SUV Is Right for You?

The Nissan Murano and Subaru Outback are both excellent choices for midsize SUV buyers. The Murano offers a more powerful engine, a more refined interior, and a wider range of safety features. The Outback, on the other hand, is more fuel-efficient, has a more rugged design, and comes standard with all-wheel-drive.

Ultimately, the best choice between the Nissan Murano and Subaru Outback depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize power, style, and safety, the Murano is an excellent option. If you value fuel efficiency, off-road capability, and affordability, the Outback is a great choice.

Factors to Consider When Choosing

When choosing between the Nissan Murano and Subaru Outback, consider the following factors:

• Powertrain: The Murano’s V6 engine provides more power, while the Outback’s four-cylinder engine is more fuel-efficient.
• Handling: The Murano offers a more car-like driving experience, while the Outback excels in off-road conditions.
• Interior and Space: The Murano has a more spacious and luxurious interior, while the Outback is more rugged and functional.
• Safety and Technology: Both SUVs offer comprehensive safety features, with the Murano offering more advanced features and the Outback having Subaru’s EyeSight system as standard.
• Reliability and Ownership Costs: Both SUVs have a good reputation for reliability, with the Outback having slightly lower ownership costs.

The Verdict

The Nissan Murano and Subaru Outback are both excellent choices for midsize SUV buyers. The Murano offers a more powerful engine, a more refined interior, and a wider range of safety features. The Outback, on the other hand, is more fuel-efficient, has a more rugged design, and comes standard with all-wheel-drive. Ultimately, the best choice between the two SUVs depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which SUV has a more comfortable interior?
A: The Nissan Murano has a more spacious and luxurious interior with higher-quality materials.

Q: Which SUV is better for off-road driving?
A: The Subaru Outback has a more rugged design, higher ground clearance, and standard all-wheel-drive, making it better suited for off-road conditions.

Q: Which SUV is more affordable to own?
A: The Subaru Outback has slightly lower insurance premiums and maintenance costs, making it more affordable to own than the Nissan Murano.