2025 Nissan Murano vs 2026 Lexus NX

$40,470 · Crossover

$44,175 · Crossover

Comparison Overview

Choosing between a practical everyday crossover and a premium hybrid experience can be tough. If you're looking at the 2025 Nissan Murano versus the 2026 Lexus NX, the core decision boils down to immediate savings versus long-term running costs. The Murano starts significantly lower at $40,470, offering a robust 241 hp from its engine and a traditional 9-speed automatic transmission. However, its fuel economy sits at a combined 23 MPG, using regular unleaded fuel. In contrast, the Lexus NX commands a $44,175 MSRP but rewards efficiency-minded drivers with an exceptional 40 combined MPG, although it requires premium fuel. The Murano is physically larger, measuring 192.9 inches long compared to the NX's 183.5 inches, which translates to better utility with 32.9 cu ft of cargo space versus the Lexus's 22.7 cu ft. This comparison heavily weighs upfront cost versus phenomenal fuel savings.

Size Comparison

Performance

Fuel Efficiency

Full Specifications

Our Verdicts

🚗 Best for Commuters

2026 Lexus NX

The 2026 Lexus NX wins for commuters due to its massive 17 MPG advantage in combined efficiency (40 MPG vs. 23 MPG).

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for Families

2025 Nissan Murano

The 2025 Nissan Murano is the better family choice because it offers substantially more cargo room at 32.9 cu ft compared to the NX's 22.7 cu ft.

🏎️ Best for Enthusiasts

2025 Nissan Murano

The Murano appeals slightly more to traditional driving enthusiasts with its 260 lb-ft of torque and standard 9-speed automatic transmission.

💰 Best Value

2026 Lexus NX

Despite a higher sticker price, the NX offers superior long-term value through its fuel efficiency, offsetting the initial $3,705 price gap quickly.

Choose the Nissan Murano if...

You prioritize maximizing cargo volume, as the Murano delivers 32.9 cu ft.
You prefer the feel of a traditional geared automatic transmission paired with its 9-speed setup.
You want to save $3,705 on the initial purchase price compared to the Lexus NX.

Choose the Lexus NX if...

Fuel economy is your absolute top priority, given its outstanding 40 combined MPG rating.
You prefer a slightly smaller footprint, with the NX being 183.5 inches long versus the Murano's 192.9 inches.
You value the prestige and potentially lower running costs associated with the hybrid Lexus drivetrain.

Key Dimensions

Dimension	Nissan Murano	Lexus NX
Length	192.9"	183.5"
Width	78.0"	73.4"
Height	67.9"	66.1"
Wheelbase	111.2"	105.9"

Features Comparison

Safety

Feature	Nissan	Lexus
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	✓	✓
Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors	—	✓
Rear Height Adjustable Headrests	—	✓

Engine

Feature	Nissan	Lexus
Base Engine Displacement	2.0 L	2.5 L
Number of Cylinders	inline 4	inline 4
Base Engine Type	gas	hybrid
Horsepower	241 hp @ 5600 rpm	240 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque	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	✓	✓

Drive Train

Feature	Nissan	Lexus
Transmission Type	9-speed shiftable automatic	continuously variable-speed automatic
Drivetrain Type	front wheel drive	front wheel drive

Fuel

Feature	Nissan	Lexus
Fuel Type	regular unleaded	premium unleaded (recommended)
EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway)	21/27 MPG	42/38 MPG
EPA Fuel Economy (Combined)	23 MPG	40 MPG
EPA Driving Range (City/Highway)	392.7/504.9 mi.	609.0/551.0 mi.
Fuel Tank Capacity	18.7 gal.	14.5 gal.

Comfort & Convenience

Feature	Nissan	Lexus
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	Lexus
Infotainment Display	12.3 in	9.8 in
AM/FM Stereo	✓	✓
Speaker System	6	10
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	✓	—

Power Feature

Feature	Nissan	Lexus
One-Touch Power Windows	2	4
Keyless Entry	✓	✓
Heated Mirrors	✓	✓
Reverse Tilt Passenger Mirror	—	✓

Frontseats

Feature	Nissan	Lexus
Front Head Room	41.1 in.	38.3 in.
Front Leg Room	44.3 in.	41.0 in.
Front Shoulder Room	60.8 in.	56.3 in.
Front Hip Room	56.9 in.	56.3 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	—	✓

Rearseats

Feature	Nissan	Lexus
Rear Head Room	39.7 in.	38.5 in.
Rear Leg Room	36.3 in.	36.1 in.
Rear Shoulder Room	58.5 in.	54.0 in.
Rear Hip Room	56.9 in.	52.5 in.
Split-Folding Rear Seatback	✓	✓
Folding Center Armrest	✓	✓
Reclining Rear Seats	—	✓

Tires and Wheels

Feature	Nissan	Lexus
Wheel Finish	Painted Alloy	Painted Alloy
Wheel Cover Type	Full	—
Wheel Diameter	20 in.	—
Tire Type	All Season	—
Tire Size	P255/55R20	235/60R18
Wheel Size	—	18 x 7.5 in
Run Flat Tires	—	✓

Suspension

Feature	Nissan	Lexus
Four-Wheel Independent Suspension	✓	✓
Front Stabilizer Bar	✓	✓
Rear Stabilizer Bar	✓	✓

Warranty

Feature	Nissan	Lexus
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.	6 yr./ unlimited mi.
Roadside Assistance	3 yr./ 36000 mi.	4 yr./ unlimited mi.
Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance	2 yr./ 24000 mi.	1 yr./ 10000 mi.
Hybrid Component Warranty	—	8 yr./ 100000 mi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about comparing the 2025 Nissan Murano and 2026 Lexus NX.

What is the biggest financial difference between the 2025 Murano and the 2026 NX?

The most immediate difference is the MSRP; the Murano starts at $40,470, saving you $3,705 upfront compared to the NX's $44,175 entry point. However, you must consider that the NX’s superior fuel economy saves money over time.

How does the power output compare between these two crossovers?

The 2025 Nissan Murano has a slight horsepower edge with 241 hp and better torque at 260 lb-ft. The 2026 Lexus NX offers 240 hp, meaning real-world performance differences will likely be minor, overshadowed by the NX's efficiency.

Which vehicle is better for hauling bulky items?

The Murano is the clear winner for cargo capacity, offering 32.9 cu ft behind the rear seats. The Lexus NX provides only 22.7 cu ft, making the Nissan physically larger inside.

Do these vehicles use the same type of gasoline?

No, they differ significantly in fuel requirements. The 2025 Murano runs on regular unleaded, which is typically cheaper, while the 2026 NX recommends premium unleaded fuel.

If I drive a lot, how much better is the NX's mileage?

The NX is vastly superior for high-mileage drivers, achieving 40 combined MPG compared to the Murano's 23 combined MPG—a difference of 17 MPG, which drastically lowers annual fuel expenditures.

Are the driving dynamics very different based on transmission type?

Yes, the Murano utilizes a conventional 9-speed shiftable automatic transmission, whereas the NX uses a continuously variable-speed automatic (CVT), leading to distinct acceleration feel and sound profiles.