Underdog Story: Nissan Murano Eeks Out 1 Win Against the RAV4
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 is an SUV that can’t be denied for its greatness. However, some less popular vehicles manage to beat it in a few regards. One example is the 2023 Nissan Murano. Not only does the Murano 2023 have a more powerful engine, but it’s comparable to the 2023 RAV4 in significant other ways.
Nissan Murano 2023 beats the RAV4 in performance
The Nissan Murano may not be the best-reviewed SUV on the market, but it delivers pretty impressive performance. According to Car and Driver, it uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine with a maximum output of 260 horsepower. The vehicle comes standard as a front-wheel drive, but rear-wheel drive is also available on all trims. However, one downside is the continuously variable transmission, which some owners report makes weird groaning noises.
The 2023 RAV4 is a bit less powerful than the Murano 2023 and uses a 2.5-liter 203 horsepower engine under its hood. Buyers can choose between front-wheel and all-wheel drivetrains. Regarding speed, the two SUVs are pretty similar, with both having a 0 to 60 miles per hour time of around 7.3 and 8.3 seconds. The downside to the 2023 Nissan Murano is that it no longer has a hybrid offering, whereas the 2023 RAV4 has a pretty incredible one.
The Nissan Murano interior has more space
The 2023 Nissan Murano has a pretty impressive interior, even if it’s time for a significant redesign. The 2023 RAV4 may offer more storage by way of cubbies around the vehicle, but the new Murano is more spacious and has a bigger backset than most rivals. However, it is a bit lacking regarding cargo space. Still, with the rear seats folded, the new Nissan Murano fits 26 suitcases, whereas the Toyota SUV accommodates 22.
Both SUVs come standard with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. In addition, the 2023 Murano has both USB-A and USB-C ports, which come in handy for passengers with different mobile devices. It even includes a pair of ports on the rear, making the back seat experience just as comfortable as the front. However, the 2023 RAV4 has an option for a bigger touchscreen on more advanced trims.
The slight difference in price is a letdown
Unfortuany, the 2023 Nissan Murano comes at a slightly higher price than the new Toyota RAV4. The Nissan SUV starts at $33,860, whereas the 2023 Toyota RAV4 costs $27,975. This is one of the main reasons the Toyota option is so popular, which is understandable. This price difference will turn off many buyers, and rightfully so.
The Nissan Murano isn’t often mentioned alongside the Toyota RAV4 because they have such vast differences in popularity. However, they are much more comparable than many buyers might think. The Nissan Murano 2023 isn’t a perfect vehicle, but it succeeds over the latest RAV4 due to its more powerful engine.
