Which is better, Nissan Murano or Toyota Highlander?

[DeKing]

The Nissan Murano is better for buyers prioritizing a luxurious, comfortable ride for five, while the Toyota Highlander is superior for families needing three rows of seating, maximum cargo space, and hybrid fuel efficiency. The choice isn't about one being universally better, but about which vehicle aligns with your specific lifestyle and passenger needs.

Core Comparison Table

Feature	Nissan Murano	Toyota Highlander
Seating Capacity	5 passengers (2 rows)	Up to 8 passengers (3 rows)
Standard Engine	3.5L V6 (260 hp)	2.4L Turbo I4 (265 hp)
Available Powertrain	Front-wheel or All-wheel drive	FWD, AWD, or Hybrid AWD
Notable Strength	Premium interior materials, smooth ride	Family functionality, cargo versatility
Key Differentiator	Luxury-like comfort & value	Practical space & hybrid option

The Murano’s advantage lies in its cabin experience and driving refinement. Its standard 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers smooth, confident power, and the interior often features higher-grade materials like premium soft-touch surfaces and available quilted leather seats. Models like the Platinum trim offer a genuinely upscale ambiance. For 2025, it standardizes dual 12.3-inch displays, enhancing its tech profile. Market data indicates the Murano typically offers a lower starting MSRP while bundling more luxury-appointed features, presenting strong value for a comfortable, five-passenger SUV.

The Highlander’s dominance is in practical utility. Its third-row seat, though best suited for children, transforms it into an 8-passenger vehicle, a capability the Murano cannot match. With all seats folded, it provides over 84 cubic feet of cargo space, significantly more than the Murano’s maximum. The available hybrid powertrain is a major draw, with EPA ratings around 36 mpg combined, appealing to cost-conscious families. Its reputation for legendary Toyota reliability and strong resale value, consistently noted in industry reports from sources like Kelley Blue Book, adds long-term peace of mind.

Driving dynamics differ. The Murano’s V6 and tuned suspension prioritize a quiet, cushioned, and isolated ride—ideal for commuting and long trips. The Highlander, especially with the turbo four-cylinder, feels more utilitarian; its focus is on competent, efficient transportation rather than driving engagement. Its cabin is designed for durability and easy cleaning, with features like available rear-seat entertainment.

Your final decision hinges on daily use. If you rarely carry more than four people and value a serene, feature-rich driving environment, the Nissan Murano delivers more comfort and perceived luxury per dollar. If you regularly need to transport a larger group or gear, and prioritize low running costs or hybrid technology, the Toyota Highlander is the objectively more versatile and efficient family tool.

[StellaLynn]

As a mom of three kids who all play sports, my choice was straightforward: the Toyota Highlander. The Murano’s back seat is nice, but it doesn’t have that third row. Last week, I had two of my kids plus three of their teammates in the car after practice. That simply isn’t possible with a two-row SUV. The hybrid model saves me a lot on gas with all these errands and trips. The interior is easy to wipe down after muddy cleats or snacks. For my chaotic family life, the extra space and practicality are non-negotiable.

[VonKaleb]

I’ve owned both a Murano and a Highlander over the years, so I’ve lived with each. The Murano feels like a sanctuary. The seats are incredibly comfortable, the ride is cloud-like on the highway, and the V6 has plenty of power without ever feeling strained. It’s a perfect car for my wife and me now that we’re empty-nesters. We take long road trips, and its comfort is outstanding. The Highlander we had was a workhorse—it never complained, carried everything, and was cheap to run. But for pure, daily driving pleasure and comfort, the Murano is in a different league. It’s the one that makes driving feel relaxing.

[LeSabrina]

Let’s talk numbers and logic. You need to assess your passenger and cargo requirements first. If you need to seat more than five people, even occasionally, the Highlander is your only option from these two. If cargo space is critical, the Highlander offers over 16 more cubic feet behind the second row. For fuel costs, the Highlander Hybrid’s efficiency is a significant financial advantage over time. The Murano counters with a stronger standard engine and often more premium features at a similar price point. It wins on interior ambiance and ride smoothness. List your top three must-haves. The vehicle that checks those boxes is the better choice for you.

[DanteMarie]

My perspective is all about the driving experience and tech. I just got the 2025 Murano, and the first thing you notice is the dashboard. The twin 12.3-inch screens look modern and are super responsive. The Bose audio system is fantastic. But more than the tech, it’s how the car drives. The V6 is so smooth and quiet, and the cabin is insulated from road noise. It feels like a much more expensive vehicle. I test-drove the Highlander, and it felt… fine. It drove like a capable SUV. But the four-cylinder engine was noisier when pushed, and the interior, while sensible, didn’t have the same “wow” factor. For me, the Murano turns every drive into a more enjoyable event.