2025 Nissan Murano vs 2026 Acura RDX
Comparison Overview
A measurable $4,630 MSRP disparity exists between the 2025 Nissan Murano ($40,470) and the 2026 Acura RDX ($45,100), establishing the primary point of divergence. Power metrics favor the RDX, which delivers 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque compared to the Murano's 241 hp and 260 lb-ft, a 31 hp advantage for Acura. Efficiency is identical, with both crossovers achieving a 23 MPG combined rating using 21/27 MPG city/highway splits, though the RDX mandates premium fuel while the Murano accepts regular unleaded. Dimensional analysis shows the Murano is 5.5 inches longer (192.9 inches vs. 187.4 inches) and offers 3.4 cubic feet more cargo space (32.9 cu ft vs. 29.5 cu ft). Furthermore, the RDX includes an AWD configuration standard versus the Murano's FWD baseline, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission versus the Nissan's 9-speed unit.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Nissan Murano
Lower entry price point combined with the capability to run on regular unleaded fuel provides a direct financial benefit for high-mileage commuters.
2025 Nissan Murano
The Murano provides 3.4 cubic feet more standardized cargo capacity, making it marginally more practical for carrying passenger belongings.
2026 Acura RDX
The RDX exhibits superior performance specifications, boasting 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, alongside standard all-wheel drive.
2025 Nissan Murano
The Murano undercuts the RDX by $4,630 while maintaining identical combined fuel economy figures.
Choose the Nissan Murano if...
- Priority is minimizing initial purchase outlay, given the $4,630 lower MSRP.
- Maximizing base cargo volume is necessary, as the Murano offers 32.9 cu ft.
- Preference is for regular unleaded gasoline over premium fuel requirements.
Choose the Acura RDX if...
- Greater engine output (272 hp) and standard all-wheel drive capability are required.
- A more advanced 10-speed automatic transmission setup is preferred.
- The buyer prioritizes the RDX’s slightly more compact footprint (187.4 inches long).
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Nissan Murano | Acura RDX |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 192.9" | 187.4" |
| Width | 78.0" | 74.8" |
| Height | 67.9" | 65.7" |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 108.3" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Nissan | Acura |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Attention Alert | ✓ | — |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Rear Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | — |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Traction Control System | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | — |
| Brake Preparation System | ✓ | — |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | ✓ | — |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Fog Lights | ✓ | — |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Fixed Headrests | ✓ | — |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Solid Disc Brakes | — | ✓ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | — | ✓ |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Nissan | Acura |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 2.0 L | 2.0 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 4 | inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | gas | gas |
| Horsepower | 241 hp @ 5600 rpm | 272 hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm | 280 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Nissan | Acura |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | front wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| [object Object] | — | ✓ |
| [object Object] | — | ✓ |
Fuel
| Feature | Nissan | Acura |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded | premium unleaded (recommended) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 21/27 MPG | 21/27 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 23 MPG | 23 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 392.7/504.9 mi. | 359.1/461.7 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 18.7 gal. | 17.1 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Nissan | Acura |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Parking Sensors | ✓ | — |
| Rear Parking Sensors | ✓ | — |
| Wireless Charging Pad | ✓ | — |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Overhead Console with Storage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Leatherette Steering Wheel | ✓ | — |
| Dual Zone Climate Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | ✓ | ✓ |
| Interior Air Filtration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | — | ✓ |
| Universal Remote Transmitter | — | ✓ |
| Front Seatback Storage | — | ✓ |
| Leather Steering Wheel | — | ✓ |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror | — | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Nissan | Acura |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 12.3 in | 10.2 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Speaker System | 6 | 9 |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 3 months | 3 months |
| Speed Sensitive Volume Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Subwoofer Count | — | 1 |
Power Feature
| Feature | Nissan | Acura |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 2 | 4 |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Moonroof Type | — | 1st Row Power Glass |
| Reverse Tilt Passenger Mirror | — | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Nissan | Acura |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 41.1 in. | 40.0 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 44.3 in. | 42.0 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 60.8 in. | 60.0 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 56.9 in. | 55.0 in. |
| Seat Material: Leatherette | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | 8-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | Power |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 6-way | 8-way |
| Driver Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | — | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Lumbar Support | — | Power |
Rearseats
| Feature | Nissan | Acura |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 39.7 in. | 38.0 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 36.3 in. | 38.0 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 58.5 in. | 57.0 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 56.9 in. | 50.0 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | ✓ |
| Folding Center Armrest | ✓ | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Nissan | Acura |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Finish | Painted Alloy | Painted Alloy |
| Wheel Cover Type | Full | — |
| Wheel Diameter | 20 in. | — |
| Tire Type | All Season | All Season |
| Tire Size | P255/55R20 | 235/55R19 |
| Wheel Size | — | 19 x 8.0 in |
| Spare Tire Type | — | Temporary |
| Spare Tire Location | — | Inside Mounted |
Suspension
| Feature | Nissan | Acura |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | ✓ | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Nissan | Acura |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | 6 yr./ 70000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. |
| Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance | 2 yr./ 24000 mi. | 1 yr./ 12000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Nissan Murano and 2026 Acura RDX.
How significant is the performance gap between the two crossovers?
The 2026 Acura RDX holds a 31 hp advantage (272 hp vs. 241 hp) and 20 lb-ft more torque (280 lb-ft vs. 260 lb-ft) compared to the 2025 Nissan Murano.
Do these crossovers offer different fuel consumption profiles?
Numerically, both achieve an identical 23 MPG combined (21 city/27 highway), but the RDX requires premium unleaded fuel while the Murano operates on regular unleaded.
Which vehicle provides superior utility volume based on published specifications?
The 2025 Nissan Murano is superior in specified cargo space, offering 32.9 cubic feet versus the RDX’s 29.5 cubic feet.
What is the drivetrain standard for the baseline models of these vehicles?
The 2025 Nissan Murano comes standard with front-wheel drive, whereas the 2026 Acura RDX includes all-wheel drive as its standard configuration.
How much smaller is the Acura RDX physically compared to the Murano?
The RDX is 5.5 inches shorter in length (187.4 in vs. 192.9 in), 3.2 inches narrower (74.8 in vs. 78.0 in), and 2.2 inches lower in height (65.7 in vs. 67.9 in).
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