2025 Acura RDX vs 2026 Nissan Murano
Comparison Overview
The most significant numerical disparity between the 2025 Acura RDX and the 2026 Nissan Murano is the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), with the RDX priced $3,030 higher at $44,700 compared to the Murano's $41,670. Performance metrics favor the RDX, which delivers 31 more horsepower (272 hp vs. 241 hp) and 20 lb-ft more torque (280 lb-ft vs. 260 lb-ft). Fuel economy is identical, both achieving a combined 23 MPG (21 city/27 highway), though the RDX requires premium unleaded while the Murano accepts regular unleaded. Dimensionally, the 2026 Murano is the larger vehicle, measuring 5.5 inches longer (192.9 inches vs. 187.4 inches) and offering greater utility with 3.4 cubic feet more cargo capacity (32.9 cu ft vs. 29.5 cu ft). Both utilize all-wheel drive systems, but the RDX employs a 10-speed automatic transmission, whereas the Murano uses a 9-speed unit.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2026 Nissan Murano
The Murano secures the commuter edge due to its lower $41,670 MSRP and requirement for regular unleaded fuel, resulting in potentially lower long-term running costs.
2026 Nissan Murano
With 32.9 cu ft of cargo capacity, the Murano provides 3.4 cubic feet more usable space than the RDX for hauling family necessities.
2025 Acura RDX
The RDX provides a measurable performance advantage, generating 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, surpassing the Murano's 241 hp output.
2026 Nissan Murano
The Murano delivers comparable 23 MPG combined efficiency while costing $3,030 less than the RDX, enhancing its immediate value proposition.
Choose the Acura RDX if...
- Higher output figures are prioritized, demonstrated by the RDX's 272 hp rating.
- A 10-speed automatic transmission architecture is preferred over a 9-speed setup.
- Buyers are willing to pay the $3,030 premium for Acura branding and performance margins.
Choose the Nissan Murano if...
- Minimizing initial purchase price is a key metric, with the Murano listed at $41,670.
- Maximum cargo volume is necessary, as the Murano offers 32.9 cu ft versus the RDXโs 29.5 cu ft.
- Fuel costs are optimized by using regular unleaded gasoline instead of premium unleaded.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Acura RDX | Nissan Murano |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 187.4" | 192.9" |
| Width | 74.8" | 78.0" |
| Height | 65.7" | 67.9" |
| Wheelbase | 108.3" | 111.2" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Acura | Nissan |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | โ | โ |
| Lane Departure Warning | โ | โ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | โ | โ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | โ | โ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | โ | โ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | โ | โ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | โ | โ |
| Front Head Airbags | โ | โ |
| Rear Head Airbags | โ | โ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | โ | โ |
| Electronic Stability Control | โ | โ |
| Traction Control System | โ | โ |
| LATCH System | โ | โ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | โ | โ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | โ | โ |
| Rear Solid Disc Brakes | โ | โ |
| Brake Assist | โ | โ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | โ | โ |
| Automatic Headlights | โ | โ |
| LED Headlights | โ | โ |
| Daytime Running Lights | โ | โ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | โ | โ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | โ | โ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | โ | โ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | โ | โ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | โ | โ |
| Engine Immobilizer | โ | โ |
| Driver Attention Alert | โ | โ |
| Dual Rear Side-Mounted Airbags | โ | โ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | โ | โ |
| Brake Preparation System | โ | โ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | โ | โ |
| Front Fog Lights | โ | โ |
| Rear Fixed Headrests | โ | โ |
Engine
| Feature | Acura | Nissan |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 2.0 L | 2.0 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 4 | inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | gas | gas |
| Horsepower | 272 hp @ 6500 rpm | 241 hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm | 260 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | โ | โ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Acura | Nissan |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 10-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | all wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| [object Object] | โ | โ |
| [object Object] | โ | โ |
| Center Differential Type | โ | Limited Slip |
Fuel
| Feature | Acura | Nissan |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (recommended) | regular unleaded |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 21/27 MPG | 21/27 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 23 MPG | 23 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 359.1/461.7 mi. | 392.7/504.9 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 17.1 gal. | 18.7 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Acura | Nissan |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | โ | โ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Electric Power Steering | โ | โ |
| Rear View Camera | โ | โ |
| Wireless Charging Pad | โ | โ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | โ | โ |
| Universal Remote Transmitter | โ | โ |
| Front Cupholders | โ | โ |
| Rear Cupholders | โ | โ |
| Front Door Pockets | โ | โ |
| Rear Door Pockets | โ | โ |
| Overhead Console with Storage | โ | โ |
| Front Seatback Storage | โ | โ |
| Leather Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Dual Zone Climate Control | โ | โ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | โ | โ |
| Interior Air Filtration | โ | โ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | โ | โ |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror | โ | โ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | โ | โ |
| Front Parking Sensors | โ | โ |
| Rear Parking Sensors | โ | โ |
| Leatherette Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Acura | Nissan |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 10.2 in | 12.3 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | โ | โ |
| Speaker System | 9 | 6 |
| Subwoofer Count | 1 | โ |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | โ | โ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | โ | โ |
| USB Port | โ | โ |
| Auxiliary Audio Input | โ | โ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | โ | โ |
| Satellite Radio | โ | โ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 3 months | 3 months |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | โ | โ |
Power Feature
| Feature | Acura | Nissan |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 2 |
| Moonroof Type | 1st Row Power Glass | โ |
| Keyless Entry | โ | โ |
| Reverse Tilt Passenger Mirror | โ | โ |
| Heated Mirrors | โ | โ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Acura | Nissan |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 40.0 in. | 41.1 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 42.0 in. | 44.3 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 60.0 in. | 60.8 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 55.0 in. | 56.9 in. |
| Seat Material: Leatherette | โ | โ |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | โ | โ |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | 8-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | โ | โ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | 6-way |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | โ | โ |
| Passenger Seat Lumbar Support | Power | โ |
| Driver Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
Rearseats
| Feature | Acura | Nissan |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 38.0 in. | 39.7 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 38.0 in. | 36.3 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 57.0 in. | 58.5 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 50.0 in. | 56.9 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | โ | โ |
| Folding Center Armrest | โ | โ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Acura | Nissan |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Finish | Painted Alloy | Painted Alloy |
| Wheel Size | 19 x 8.0 in | โ |
| Tire Type | All Season | All Season |
| Tire Size | 235/55R19 | P255/55R20 |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | โ |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | โ |
| Wheel Cover Type | โ | Full |
| Wheel Diameter | โ | 20 in. |
Suspension
| Feature | Acura | Nissan |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | โ | โ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | โ | โ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | โ | โ |
Warranty
| Feature | Acura | Nissan |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 6 yr./ 70000 mi. | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | 1 yr./ 12000 mi. | โ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Acura RDX and 2026 Nissan Murano.
How much more cargo space does the 2026 Nissan Murano offer over the 2025 Acura RDX?
The 2026 Nissan Murano provides 32.9 cubic feet of cargo space, which is 3.4 cubic feet more than the 29.5 cubic feet available in the 2025 Acura RDX.
What is the fuel cost implication of choosing the 2025 Acura RDX regarding fuel type?
The RDX requires premium unleaded fuel, whereas the 2026 Nissan Murano operates on regular unleaded, potentially leading to higher per-fill costs for the Acura.
Comparing only the horsepower figures, what is the difference between the two crossovers?
The 2025 Acura RDX produces 272 hp, creating a 31 hp advantage over the 2026 Nissan Murano's 241 hp rating.
Which vehicle is physically larger based on exterior dimensions?
The 2026 Nissan Murano is dimensionally larger, being 5.5 inches longer (192.9 inches) and 2.3 inches taller (67.9 inches) than the Acura RDX.
Do these vehicles have different transmission types despite both being automatic?
Yes, the 2025 Acura RDX uses a 10-speed shiftable automatic transmission, while the 2026 Nissan Murano is equipped with a 9-speed shiftable automatic transmission.
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