You’re in the market for an SUV, huh? Two of the heavy hitters that might have caught your eye are the Honda CR-V and the Nissan Murano. Let’s be real—buying a new vehicle is a big commitment, and you need to make sure you’re putting your hard-earned money in the right place.
So, let’s dig into the nitty-gritty of these two SUVs and help you make an informed choice.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Honda CR-V | Nissan Murano |
| Engine | 1.5-liter Turbocharged 4-cylinder | 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 260 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 240 lb-ft |
| Fuel Efficiency (city/hwy) | Up to 28/34 mpg | 20/28 mpg |
| Cargo Space | 75.8 cubic feet | 67 cubic feet |
| Safety Features | Honda Sensing suite | Nissan Safety Shield 360 |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 7-inch | 8-inch |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard | Standard |
| Reliability | Excellent | Good |
| Starting Price | Generally Lower | Generally Higher |
Performance: Zoom, Zoom or Smooth Cruising?
When it comes to performance, the Honda CR-V and the Nissan Murano offer two distinct experiences.
The CR-V offers a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, which is zippy and fuel-efficient. It’s agile in city traffic and has enough power for most of your day-to-day needs.
On the other hand, the Murano packs a 3.5-liter V6 under its hood. This powerhouse provides a stronger kick, which translates to more exciting highway drives and quicker accelerations.
Honda CR-V Pros
- Fuel-efficient
- Agile and responsive handling
Nissan Murano Pros
- Stronger engine
- Smooth and powerful acceleration
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Interior Comfort: Room for All or Cozy Nest?
Here’s where the Honda CR-V shows its utilitarian side. The CR-V offers more cargo space, and its Magic Seat in the rear allows for different configurations, making it perfect for DIY projects or outdoor adventures. The seats are comfy and the cabin design is straightforward and user-friendly.
The Nissan Murano focuses more on luxury. The seats are plush, the materials feel premium, and you’ve got the option for upgrades like leather upholstery.
Honda CR-V Pros
- More cargo space
- Versatile seating options
Nissan Murano Pros
- Plush, comfortable seats
- Premium interior materials
Tech Features: Who’s the Smartest in the Lot?
Let’s talk tech. Honda CR-V comes standard with Honda Sensing, which includes features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. On the entertainment side, you have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Nissan isn’t far behind with its NissanConnect system. It has Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and even offers an available 11-speaker Bose audio system for the audiophiles out there.
Honda CR-V Pros
- Honda Sensing safety features
- Reliable infotainment options
Nissan Murano Pros
- Available premium Bose audio system
- Comprehensive suite of safety features
Reliability: Because Nobody Likes a Lemon
Honda has a well-earned reputation for reliability. With regular maintenance, the CR-V will run smoothly for years.
The Nissan Murano, however, has a more mixed record. While it’s not unreliable by any stretch, you might find that you’ll have a few more visits to the repair shop compared to the Honda.
Honda CR-V Pros
- Excellent long-term reliability
- Lower maintenance costs
Nissan Murano Pros
- Decent but not stellar reliability
- Warranty options for added peace of mind
Price Tag: Affordable or Premium?
While both SUVs offer value, the Honda CR-V generally comes with a lower starting price, making it more budget-friendly. The Nissan Murano leans toward the premium side, with a slightly higher starting price but more upscale features.
Honda CR-V Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Great value for money
Nissan Murano Pros
- More luxury features
- Feels more premium
Key Differences Between Honda CR-V and Nissan Murano: The Showdown Continues
So, you’re still sitting on the fence, huh? No worries. Let’s zero in on some of the key differences between the Honda CR-V and the Nissan Murano.
From performance to interior, from tech bells and whistles to reliability, we’ll break it down for you.
Under the Hood: Performance & Engine Specs
Honda CR-V
The CR-V’s 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is built for the eco-conscious driver. With a solid fuel efficiency of up to 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, this baby was designed to help you save at the pump. The engine offers 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque—enough to take you from point A to point B without much fuss. However, if you’re looking for something that roars on the freeway, the CR-V may leave you a little underwhelmed.
Nissan Murano
By contrast, the Nissan Murano’s beefy 3.5-liter V6 engine comes out swinging with 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque.
It’s more power-hungry, of course, offering around 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. If you’re the type of person who wants to feel every acceleration, then the Murano is right up your alley.
Key Takeaway If you prioritize fuel efficiency, the Honda CR-V takes the cake. But if you want power and are willing to sacrifice some mpg, the Nissan Murano stands out.
Let’s Talk Space: Cargo & Seating
Honda CR-V
This SUV is practically a magician with its Magic Seat feature. The back seats fold down flat to offer you a generous 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space. The legroom is decent in both the front and back seats, making it a comfortable ride for your gang on long trips.
Nissan Murano
The Murano opts for quality over quantity. While it offers only 67 cubic feet of cargo space, the space feels more refined, with high-quality materials lining the cabin. The “Zero Gravity” seats are designed to make long drives a breeze. Plus, it offers dual-panel panoramic sunroofs, creating an airy environment.
Key Takeaway If utility and space are top priorities, the Honda CR-V is the winner. For luxury and comfort, the Nissan Murano takes the prize.
Tech Galore: Infotainment & Safety Features
Honda CR-V
Standard in most of its models, Honda Sensing offers a suite of safety features like collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen provides access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to connect your devices and stay entertained.
Nissan Murano
The Murano does not shy away in the tech department either. Its standard 8-inch touchscreen offers more real estate than the CR-V’s. Safety features are equally robust, with available options like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and intelligent lane intervention.
Key Takeaway Tech-wise, it’s almost a tie, but if screen size and optional premium audio are essential to you, the Murano has a slight edge.
Longevity and Dependability
Honda CR-V
Honda has a legendary reputation for building cars that last. You’re likely to see older CR-Vs on the road, still kicking after years of use. It’s a smart long-term investment.
Nissan Murano
While Nissan’s reliability record isn’t bad, it’s not as sterling as Honda’s. You might find yourself making a few more trips to the service department than you would with a CR-V.
Key Takeaway For a long-lasting vehicle, the Honda CR-V wins this round.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, the Nissan Murano is generally larger, especially when it comes to width and overall length, making it a more spacious option.
The Nissan Rogue is often considered the direct competitor to the Honda CR-V in terms of size and features.
As of my last update in September 2021, the Nissan Murano was not discontinued. However, automakers do phase out models for various reasons like slow sales or new releases.
Some common complaints include a less exciting driving experience compared to rivals and less premium interior materials.
The Nissan Murano is considered a midsize SUV, providing more space than the smaller Honda CR-V.
The EX trim is generally better, offering more features like a sunroof, larger touchscreen, and advanced safety features compared to the LX.
Conlusion
There you have it! The Honda CR-V and the Nissan Murano are both excellent choices, but they cater to different needs and wants. If you’re looking for efficiency, reliability, and versatility, go for the Honda CR-V.
So there you have it—the CR-V and Murano, head-to-head. The Honda CR-V is the utilitarian, reliable choice that offers fantastic fuel efficiency. On the other hand, the Nissan Murano goes big on power and luxury. Either way, you’re getting a solid SUV. It all boils down to what you value most. But if you’re leaning towards a more luxurious, comfortable drive with a kick in the performance department, the Nissan Murano is the way to go. Happy driving!
