2023 Nissan Altima Vs Murano: The Ultimate Comparison Guide

When it comes to choosing a reliable and stylish sedan or crossover SUV, the Nissan Altima and Murano are two top contenders. Both vehicles offer a comfortable ride, advanced technology features, and a host of safety features. But which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Nissan Altima and Murano, helping you make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.

Performance and Efficiency: A Tale of Two Engines

The Nissan Altima and Murano offer distinct powertrain options that cater to different driving styles and needs.

Nissan Altima:

• The Altima’s standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generates 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, providing a balanced blend of power and fuel efficiency.
• For those seeking more exhilaration, the Altima offers a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque.
• Both engines are paired with a smooth-shifting continuously variable transmission (CVT) that optimizes fuel economy.

Nissan Murano:

• The Murano comes standard with a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, offering ample power for everyday driving and effortless highway cruising.
• The V6 engine is mated to a refined 9-speed automatic transmission that ensures smooth and responsive gear changes.
• While the Murano is not as fuel-efficient as the Altima, its V6 engine provides a more engaging driving experience.

Interior Space and Comfort: Room to Stretch or Cargo to Haul

The Nissan Altima and Murano offer varying levels of interior space and comfort, depending on your priorities.

Nissan Altima:

• The Altima’s spacious cabin provides ample legroom and headroom for front and rear passengers, making it a comfortable choice for families or those who frequently have passengers.
• The Altima’s trunk offers 15.4 cubic feet of cargo space, which is sufficient for everyday errands and weekend getaways.

Nissan Murano:

• The Murano boasts a more generous interior, with ample legroom and headroom in both rows of seats, ensuring a comfortable ride for all occupants.
• The Murano’s cargo capacity is significantly larger than the Altima’s, offering 32.1 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expandable to 67 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This makes it an excellent choice for those who need to transport bulky items or frequently engage in outdoor activities.

Technology and Connectivity: Staying Connected on the Road

The Nissan Altima and Murano are equipped with cutting-edge technology features that keep you connected and entertained on your journeys.

Nissan Altima:

• The Altima features an intuitive infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity.
• The Altima also offers a Bose premium audio system with nine speakers, delivering an immersive listening experience.

Nissan Murano:

• The Murano takes technology to the next level with its larger 9-inch touchscreen display, NissanConnect infotainment system, and navigation.
• The Murano’s Bose premium audio system boasts 11 speakers, providing an even more captivating audio experience.

Safety Features: Protecting You and Your Loved Ones

The Nissan Altima and Murano prioritize safety with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

Nissan Altima:

• The Altima comes standard with Nissan’s Safety Shield 360, which includes features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning.
• The Altima also offers ProPILOT Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system that helps maintain lane centering and speed control.

Nissan Murano:

• The Murano matches the Altima’s safety features with its Safety Shield 360 suite, providing the same level of protection.
• Additionally, the Murano offers Intelligent Around View Monitor, which provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier.

Design and Style: Making a Statement on the Road

The Nissan Altima and Murano showcase distinct design philosophies, catering to different aesthetic preferences.

Nissan Altima:

• The Altima’s sleek and sporty design exudes a sense of sophistication and athleticism.
• Its sharp lines, aggressive grille, and dynamic profile create a commanding presence on the road.

Nissan Murano:

• The Murano’s bold and muscular stance conveys a sense of ruggedness and adventure.
• Its sculpted body, chrome accents, and panoramic moonroof give it a luxurious and upscale appearance.

Which One Should You Choose? Finding the Perfect Fit

The decision between the Nissan Altima and Murano ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Choose the Nissan Altima if:

• You prioritize fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride.
• You need a spacious cabin for passengers and cargo.
• You desire a sedan with a sporty and sophisticated design.

Choose the Nissan Murano if:

• You seek a more powerful and engaging driving experience.
• You need a vehicle with ample cargo space for outdoor activities or hauling large items.
• You prefer a crossover SUV with a bold and rugged design.

The Verdict: A Matter of Personal Preference

Both the Nissan Altima and Murano are excellent vehicles that offer unique strengths and appeal to different types of drivers. The Altima is a refined sedan that delivers a comfortable ride, impressive fuel economy, and a host of advanced features. The Murano, on the other hand, is a versatile crossover SUV that provides a more powerful driving experience, more spacious interior, and a commanding presence on the road. Ultimately, the choice between these two Nissan models comes down to your personal preferences and driving needs.

What People Want to Know

Q: Which vehicle has better fuel efficiency, the Nissan Altima or Murano?

A: The Nissan Altima offers better fuel efficiency than the Murano due to its smaller engine and lighter weight.

Q: Does the Nissan Murano have more cargo space than the Altima?

A: Yes, the Nissan Murano offers significantly more cargo space than the Altima, making it a more practical choice for hauling large items.

Q: Which vehicle offers a more engaging driving experience, the Altima or Murano?

A: The Nissan Murano provides a more engaging driving experience thanks to its more powerful V6 engine and responsive handling.