If you want the fast answer, I buy the Toyota RAV4 for fuel savings and towing. I buy the Nissan Murano for a bigger body and a more premium-leaning cabin feel, and I accept higher fuel costs.
Here is the surprise. The RAV4 can actually carry more stuff behind the rear seats than the Murano. RAV4 is rated up to 37.8 cu ft. Murano is 32.9 cu ft.
One more thing up front. These are different size classes. That changes price, space feel, and efficiency.
Nissan Murano Vs Toyota RAV4
Quick Answer (30-Second Decision)
Quick Verdict
Buy The Murano If:
- You want a bigger footprint. It is 192.9 in long and 78.0 in wide.
- You want AWD on every trim and a 9-speed automatic.
- You want 241 hp and 260 lb-ft, and you are fine with 23 mpg combined.
Buy The RAV4 If:
- You want hybrid efficiency. It is rated up to 47 city and 40 highway mpg.
- You want more towing. It is rated up to 3,500 lb.
- You want more cargo behind the rear seats. It is rated up to 37.8 cu ft.
Summary Table (Key Numbers That Decide It)
| Item | 2026 Nissan Murano | 2026 Toyota RAV4 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $41,670 | $31,900 |
| Powertrain | 2.0L Turbo Gas | Hybrid Standard, Plug-In Available |
| Horsepower | 241 hp | 226 hp to 236 hp (Hybrid), 324 hp (Plug-In) |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | Not listed on model page, varies by powertrain |
| MPG (City/Highway/Combined) | 21 / 27 / 23 | Up to 47 / 40 (est) |
| Drivetrain | AWD Standard | FWD Or AWD (trim dependent) |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 1,500 lb | Up to 3,500 lb |
| Cargo Behind Rear Seats | 32.9 cu ft | Up to 37.8 cu ft |
| Ground Clearance | 8.3 in | Not listed in the quick specs panel |
Notes: MSRPs exclude destination, taxes, and fees. Toyota lists MPG as estimates on the model page.
The One Table That Beats The Tools (Detailed)
When people cross-shop Murano vs RAV4, I see the same confusion every time. They look similar online. They are not. This table makes the decision in 60 seconds.
| Key Spec | 2026 Nissan Murano | 2026 Toyota RAV4 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP (Base Trim) | $41,670 | $31,900 |
| Destination Charge | $1,495 | $1,450 |
| Powertrain Type | Turbo Gas | Hybrid Or Plug-In Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 241 hp | 226 hp (Hybrid FWD) or 236 hp (Hybrid AWD) or 324 hp (PHEV) |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 163 lb-ft (Hybrid gas engine) |
| Transmission | 9-Speed Automatic | eCVT (Hybrid System) |
| AWD Availability | Standard AWD (All Trims) | FWD Or AWD (Hybrid). PHEV Uses AWD |
| Fuel Economy | 21 city / 27 highway / 23 combined mpg | Up to 47 city / 40 highway mpg (varies by trim) |
| Towing Max | 1,500 lbs | Up to 3,500 lbs (trim-dependent) |
| Cargo Behind 2nd Row | 32.9 cu ft | Up to 37.8 cu ft |
| Max Cargo | 63.5 cu ft | Up to 70.4 cu ft |
| Ground Clearance | 8.3 in | 8.1 in (LE) to 8.5 in (Woodland) |
| Warranty Basics | 3 yr / 36,000 mi basic. 5 yr / 60,000 mi powertrain | 3 yr / 36,000 mi basic. 5 yr / 60,000 mi powertrain. Hybrid battery 10 yr / 150,000 mi |
My shortcut: if you want the smooth, quiet, higher-trim feel and you are fine with 23 mpg combined, I point you to Murano. If you want lower fuel bills and the option to tow 3,500 lbs, I point you to RAV4.
Biggest Differences That Actually Matter
They Are Not The Same Size Class
I treat this like a size-class mismatch.
The Murano is longer.
It is 192.9 inches long.
The RAV4 is shorter.
It is about 181 inches long.
Wheelbase tells the same story.
Murano is 111.2 inches.
RAV4 is about 105.9 inches.
But here is the twist.
RAV4 carries more cargo behind the rear seat.
Murano gives you more passenger volume in many trims.
So if you want more rear-seat lounge feel, Murano tends to win.
If you want a boxier cargo hold for strollers, coolers, and dogs, RAV4 tends to win.
Powertrain Strategy: Turbo Gas Vs Hybrid-First
Murano keeps it simple.
One main setup.
A 2.0L turbo with 241 hp and 260 lb-ft.
A 9-speed automatic.
RAV4 is the opposite.
Hybrid is the default.
And you can go plug-in hybrid if you want more power.
Here is the real-world takeaway I use:
If you drive a lot of city miles, hybrid matters more than most people expect.
Stop-and-go is where the RAV4’s system saves the most fuel.
If you do short trips and can charge at home, the PHEV is the wild card.
Toyota quotes up to 52 miles of electric range on some PHEV grades.
That can cover a lot of commutes without burning gas.
Capability: Towing And Ground Clearance
This is the quickest deal-breaker.
Murano is capped at 1,500 lbs.
That knocks out many small campers and bigger utility trailers.
RAV4 can go higher.
Some AWD trims are rated up to 3,500 lbs.
Ground clearance is closer than you might guess.
Murano is 8.3 inches.
RAV4 ranges from 8.1 inches on LE to about 8.5 inches on Woodland.
My advice here is simple:
If you tow, confirm the exact trim’s tow rating before you sign.
If you drive snow, I care more about tires than the extra 0.2 to 0.4 inches of clearance.
Real Budget Outcome
I look at two numbers first.
Starting price gap.
And fuel.
Price gap is big.
$41,670 vs $31,900 before tax and fees.
That is a $9,770 spread on day one.
Fuel gap is also big.
Murano is 23 mpg combined.
Many RAV4 hybrids sit in the low-40s combined depending on trim.
If you drive 12,000 miles a year, the math usually favors the RAV4 hard.
Even if gas is not expensive where you live.
If you want the more upscale cabin feel and you do not care about fuel cost, Murano can still make sense.
But I want you to go in with eyes open.
You are paying for that feel every time you fill up.
Price And Ownership Cost (What You’ll Spend, Not Just MSRP)
If you care about total spend, the RAV4 usually wins on two big line items. Depreciation and fuel. The Murano can still make sense if you want the bigger cabin feel and you are not stacking miles.
MSRP Reality Check (Base Vs Trim-Matched)
Here’s a quick trim match that keeps pricing honest.
| Closest Trim Match | Base MSRP | Notes That Actually Change The Value |
|---|---|---|
| Murano SV AWD | $41,670 | 241 hp turbo, AWD, 20-inch wheels |
| RAV4 XLE Premium | $36,100 | Hybrid-only lineup, available AWD, more cargo space |
| Murano SL AWD | $46,760 | More luxury features, AWD, 20-inch wheels |
| RAV4 Limited | $43,300 | Higher-end trim, AWD standard |
Destination Fees To Remember
Murano destination is $1,495.
RAV4 destination is $1,450.
5-Year Cost Drivers
Fuel
Murano fuel economy is 23 mpg combined.
RAV4 is rated up to 47 city and 40 highway (manufacturer estimate).
Here’s what that can mean with 12,000 miles per year at $3.50 per gallon.
| SUV | MPG Used For Example | Gallons Per Year | Fuel Per Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Murano | 23 | 522 | $1,826 |
| RAV4 | 40 to 44 | 273 to 300 | $955 to $1,050 |
That gap can be about $776 to $871 per year.
Over 5 years, that’s about $3,880 to $4,355.
Depreciation
This is the part people skip. I do not.
A RAV4 is often a stronger resale play than a Murano.
Example using a $45,000 purchase price:
Murano at about 55% depreciation is roughly a $25,000 loss.
RAV4 at about 30% depreciation is roughly a $13,500 loss.
That difference can beat the fuel savings by itself.
Tires
Wheel size quietly drives real money.
Murano tire sizes are P255/55R20 on SV and SL, and P255/50R21 on Platinum.
RAV4 LE AWD runs a 17-inch wheel with P235/65R17 tires.
In plain terms, 20-inch and 21-inch tires usually cost more than 17-inch tires.
If you live where tires last 30,000 to 45,000 miles, that matters.
Insurance
Insurance tends to track replacement cost and repair complexity.
A higher MSRP trim with more sensors usually costs more to insure.
Get quotes before you fall in love with a trim badge.
Maintenance
I budget for basics first. Oil, filters, brakes, tires.
The RAV4 also includes ToyotaCare scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 25,000 miles.
That can shave real dollars off the first couple years.
Pro Tip (Trim-Match Rule)
I use a simple rule to keep comparisons fair.
Trim-Match Rule
Compare trims within a $3,000 to $5,000 MSRP band.
If you compare a $31,900 RAV4 LE to a $46,760 Murano SL, you will “discover” the Murano has nicer stuff.
That is not a discovery. That is math.
Match a Murano SV to something like an upper RAV4 trim, then decide what you actually get for the extra money.
Space And Practicality (The Reason People Switch Models)
Here’s the real story.
The Murano feels bigger up front and in overall cabin volume.
The RAV4 carries more cargo behind the second row and with seats folded.
Passenger Space Feel (Front And Rear)
These numbers explain why the Murano feels more “midsize” inside.
Passenger Volume
Murano: 112 cubic feet
RAV4: 98.9 cubic feet
Front Legroom
Murano: 44.3 inches
RAV4: 41.0 inches
Rear Legroom
Murano: 36.3 inches
RAV4: 37.8 inches
Shoulder Room
Murano front: 60.8 inches
RAV4 front: 57.0 inches
Murano rear: 58.5 inches
RAV4 rear: 56.4 inches
How I interpret that:
If you do lots of adult front-seat time, the Murano’s extra space is easy to notice.
If your life is rear-seat passengers, the RAV4’s rear legroom edge is real.
Cargo: Numbers Plus Fit-Test Checklist
Cargo Volume Behind The Second Row
Murano: 32.9 cubic feet
RAV4: 37.8 cubic feet
Max Cargo With Seats Folded
Murano: 63.5 cubic feet
RAV4: 70.4 cubic feet
The RAV4 is the better box. More space, squarer shape, and less “sloped” cargo compromises.
Fit-Test Checklist (Do This At The Dealer In 5 Minutes)
- Stroller test
Bring your stroller. Try it wheels-in, then sideways. Close the hatch without forcing it. - Suitcase test
Use a 28-inch checked suitcase. Put it upright behind the second row. Then lay it flat. - Cooler test
Use a 45-quart cooler. Check if it fits without blocking rear visibility. - Grocery run test
Load 4 paper grocery bags across. Watch how much wheelhouse bump eats into width. - Real-life seating test
Set the driver seat for a 6-foot adult. Then sit behind it. Check knee clearance and foot space.
Roof Rails, Hitch, And “Stuff You Actually Carry”
RAV4 Woodland includes raised roof rails with cross bars.
That’s a big deal if you carry a cargo box, bikes, or a kayak.
Towing is another separation point.
Murano is rated up to 1,500 lb.
RAV4 is rated up to 3,500 lb depending on trim and drivetrain.
If towing matters, I put this in writing for myself:
3,500 lb towing is a different life than 1,500 lb towing.
Driving Experience (City Vs Highway Vs Bad Weather)
I drive these two like a commuter first. Then I drive them like a road tripper. That’s where the differences show up.
City
In town, size and steering matter more than horsepower.
Here are the footprint numbers I notice right away.
- Murano length: 192.9 in
- Murano width: 78.0 in
- RAV4 length: 181.0 in
- RAV4 width: 73.0 in
That 11.9-inch length gap and 5.0-inch width gap makes the Murano feel bigger in tight lots.
Turning is a fun twist.
- Murano turning diameter: 38.1 ft
- RAV4 turning circle (curb to curb): 36.9 ft
So the RAV4 can actually pivot in a tighter circle.
Low-speed ride comes down to wheelbase and weight.
- Murano wheelbase: 111.2 in
- RAV4 wheelbase: 105.9 in
- Murano curb weight: 4,290 to 4,386 lb
- RAV4 curb weight: 3,650 to 4,550 lb (trim dependent)
The Murano’s longer wheelbase can help smooth out rough city pavement. The RAV4 feels lighter in the wheel on lower trims, especially in parking lots.
Highway
This is where power delivery and passing matter.
Murano numbers:
- 241 hp
- 260 lb-ft
- 0 to 60 mph: I see instrumented tests landing around 7.2 to 7.7 seconds
RAV4 numbers:
- 226 hp (Hybrid FWD) or 236 hp (Hybrid AWD)
- 0 to 60 mph: 7.1 seconds in an instrumented AWD Hybrid test
- Plug-in hybrid: 324 hp, and some tests put it in the high-5-second range to 60 mph
My takeaway is simple.
If you care about passing at 65 mph, both are fine.
If you want the biggest jump in passing power, the RAV4 plug-in is the one with the 324 hp headline.
Cabin noise is where you need a real test drive.
Both are 4-cylinder setups now.
Both can sound busy when you floor it.
Do this test and you’ll know fast.
- Find an on-ramp.
- Roll in at 35 mph.
- Go to 65 mph at 70% throttle.
- Then do one full-throttle pull from 50 to 70 mph.
- Pick the one you can live with.
Bad Weather
Both can be good in bad weather, but they get there differently.
Murano:
- AWD is standard on every trim.
- Ground clearance: 8.3 in
RAV4:
- Hybrid can be FWD or AWD depending on trim.
- AWD hybrids use an Electronic On-Demand setup with a rear electric motor.
- Rear motor torque is listed at 89 lb-ft.
- Ground clearance ranges from 8.1 in (LE) to 8.5 in (Woodland)
My rule still holds.
Tires matter more than AWD.
If you see real snow, budget for winter tires.
If you do dirt trailheads, choose a tire with a stronger sidewall and a deeper tread.
Fuel Economy And Efficiency
This section is the biggest reason I see people choose RAV4 in 2026. Toyota went hybrid-first. Nissan did not.
Hybrid-Only RAV4 Advantage (2026)
Toyota’s manufacturer estimates vary by grade. Here’s the spread that matters.
- Best-case estimate: 48 city, 42 highway, 44 combined (FWD)
- Lowest estimate: 41 city, 36 highway, 39 combined (Woodland HEV)
Here’s the grade-style view I use when I’m shopping.
| 2026 RAV4 Version | City / Highway / Combined (Est) |
|---|---|
| Hybrid FWD | 48 / 42 / 44 |
| LE AWD | 46 / 40 / 44 |
| XLE Premium AWD | 45 / 39 / 42 |
| Woodland HEV | 41 / 36 / 39 |
| SE, XSE, Limited AWD | 44 / 39 / 42 |
Plug-in hybrid is the other fork in the road.
Toyota lists up to 52 miles of electric range.
If you can charge at home, that can wipe out most weekday gas use.
Murano Efficiency Reality
Murano is straightforward.
- 21 city
- 27 highway
- 23 combined
It also runs a 2.0L turbo with a 9-speed automatic.
That helps keep the engine from sitting at high rpm the way many older CVT setups did.
Quick Fuel-Cost Calculator Box
I use this every time I compare a hybrid to a non-hybrid.
Inputs:
- Miles per year
- Gas price per gallon
- MPG for each SUV
Formula:
- Gallons per year = miles per year ÷ MPG
- Fuel cost per year = gallons per year × gas price
Example (12,000 miles per year, $3.50 per gallon):
- Murano at 23 mpg: 12,000 ÷ 23 = 522 gallons. 522 × $3.50 = $1,827 per year
- RAV4 Hybrid at 44 mpg: 12,000 ÷ 44 = 273 gallons. 273 × $3.50 = $956 per year
Difference:
- $871 per year
- About $4,355 over 5 years (before gas price changes)
If you drive 8,000 miles per year, cut those savings by about 33%.
If you drive 16,000 miles per year, add about 33%.
Safety And Tech (What’s Standard Vs What Costs Extra)
This is where trim pricing gets sneaky. I want the base trim to cover real safety. Then I only pay extra for features I will use on every commute.
Standard Safety Suites
Both give you a solid safety baseline.
2026 Nissan Murano (Standard Safety Shield 360)
- Automatic Emergency Braking With Pedestrian Detection
- Rear Automatic Braking
- Blind Spot Warning
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Lane Departure Warning
- High Beam Assist
2026 Toyota RAV4 (Standard Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 Plus Standard Blind Spot Monitor)
- Pre-Collision System
- Full-Speed Radar Cruise Control With Curve Speed Management
- Lane Departure Alert With Steering Assist
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Road Sign Assist
- Proactive Driving Assist
- Blind Spot Monitor With Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
My quick read.
Both cover the basics. The RAV4 also leans harder into lane-centering plus cruise as a daily driver feature set.
Driver Assist That Matters On Commutes
This is the part you feel every morning.
Murano
- Standard ProPILOT Assist helps with lane centering and stop-and-go traffic.
- Available ProPILOT Assist 2.1 adds hands-off and foot-off capability in certain situations.
- Adaptive cruise with traffic stop-and-go is part of the package.
RAV4
- Traffic Jam Assist is available.
- It works under 25 mph on controlled-access highways.
- It requires an active Drive Connect trial or subscription.
- Lane Change Assist is part of the advanced driver-assist stack on certain grades.
Here’s how I decide what is worth paying for.
If you sit in stop-and-go traffic 3 days a week:
- I pay for the better lane-centering and the smoother low-speed follow.
- I also check if the feature needs a subscription after the trial.
If you drive mostly open roads:
- I care more about adaptive cruise behavior at 65 to 75 mph.
- I test how quickly it slows for a car cutting in.
- I test how smoothly it re-accelerates.
Infotainment And Connectivity
This is where the two brands feel different day to day.
Murano Tech I Actually Notice
- Dual 12.3-inch displays.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto.
- 4 USB ports listed in the specs table.
- NissanConnect and MyNISSAN app features like remote functions.
- Google built-in is available on higher trims.
- Wi-Fi hotspot capability is listed on upper trims.
RAV4 Tech I Actually Notice
- Standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
- Standard 10.5-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia screen.
- Available 12.9-inch screen on higher trims.
- Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto.
- Standard built-in Drive Recorder using the exterior cameras for 20-second clips.
- Dual Bluetooth phone connectivity is called out in the press info.
- Drive Connect trials and subscriptions affect features like Traffic Jam Assist.
My take.
If you hate subscriptions, read the fine print before you pick a trim. Some of the coolest Toyota features sit behind Drive Connect after the trial.
What’s Standard Vs Extra (Fast Cheat Sheet)
| Feature | 2026 Murano | 2026 RAV4 |
|---|---|---|
| AEB With Pedestrian Detection | Standard | Standard |
| Blind Spot And Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Standard | Standard |
| Lane Centering With Adaptive Cruise | Standard ProPILOT Assist | Standard lane support, advanced features vary |
| Hands-Free Highway Assist | Optional ProPILOT Assist 2.1 | Not the same feature set |
| Traffic Jam Assist Under 25 mph | Included via ProPILOT behavior | Available, requires Drive Connect |
| Built-In Dashcam Style Recorder | Not listed as standard | Standard Drive Recorder |
| Big Screens | Dual 12.3-inch displays | 10.5-inch standard, 12.9-inch available |
| 360 Camera | Available on SL and Platinum | 3D Panoramic View Monitor available |
If you want my practical advice, here it is.
Test the driver-assist on the exact roads you drive. For 10 minutes.
Then decide if it is worth the trim jump or the subscription.
Reliability, Resale Value, And “Keep It 10 Years” Confidence
If I’m keeping an SUV for 10 years, I care about 3 things. Repair frequency. Big-ticket risk. And how much money disappears when I sell it.
What History Suggests (Without Overclaiming)
I like using repair and cost datasets as a sanity check. Not as gospel.
| Metric | Nissan Murano | Toyota RAV4 |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability Rating | 3.5 out of 5.0 | 4.0 out of 5.0 |
| Avg Annual Repair Cost | $507 | $429 |
| Unscheduled Shop Visits Per Year | 0.5 | 0.3 |
| Chance A Repair Is Severe | 14% | 10% |
My take from those numbers.
The RAV4 tends to visit the shop less often. And when it does, it has a lower chance of a “big” repair bill.
The Murano is still in a normal range. But it shows more severity risk in the averages.
One more real-world point for 2026 buyers.
The 2026 Murano is a new generation with a new powertrain setup. It moves to a 2.0L turbo and a 9-speed automatic. That means less long-term track record for this exact combo.
If you keep cars forever, that matters.
What I watch on a 10-year plan:
Murano Watch List
- Turbo engine maintenance. I do oil changes on time. No excuses.
- Shift quality from the 9-speed. Any harsh 2 to 3 or 3 to 4 shifts get checked early.
- AWD fluid service. I do not wait for a symptom.
RAV4 Watch List
- Hybrid cooling system checks. Coolant level and condition matter.
- Brake feel. Hybrids blend regen and friction brakes. I want it consistent.
- Tires. A lot of hybrids eat tires faster if alignment is off.
Depreciation Expectation (Why RAV4 Usually Wins)
This is the part that changes the “real price” more than fuel for many owners.
According to iSeeCars depreciation estimates:
- Murano depreciates about 55.3% after 5 years.
- RAV4 depreciates about 30.3% after 5 years.
They also show 10-year estimates:
- Murano about 74.3% after 10 years.
- RAV4 about 57.2% after 10 years.
Here’s how I use that.
If you might sell in 3 to 5 years, RAV4 resale usually makes it cheaper to own. Even if the Murano feels nicer in the showroom.
If you truly keep it 10 years, depreciation matters less. Maintenance and fuel matter more.
Warranty And Hybrid Coverage Basics
I look at warranty as a backstop. Not a plan.
Murano Warranty Basics
- 3 years or 36,000 miles basic
- 5 years or 60,000 miles powertrain
- Nissan also offers a complimentary maintenance program that covers up to 3 oil changes within 2 years or 24,000 miles on eligible new vehicles
RAV4 Warranty Basics
- 3 years or 36,000 miles basic
- 5 years or 60,000 miles powertrain
- Hybrid system coverage: 8 years or 100,000 miles
- Hybrid battery coverage: 10 years or 150,000 miles
My simple 10-year rule.
If you want the safest resale bet, I lean RAV4.
If you want the bigger cabin feel and you plan to keep it a long time, Murano can still make sense.
But I budget fuel and I stay strict on maintenance.
Which One Should You Buy? (Use-Case Picker)
This is how I’d pick fast. Match your goal to the SUV that hits it with the fewest compromises.
| If You Want This | Buy This | The Numbers That Make It Obvious |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest Fuel Spend | RAV4 Hybrid | RAV4 is rated up to 47 city / 40 highway mpg. Murano is 21 city / 27 highway / 23 combined mpg. |
| Plug-In Commuting | RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid | Toyota claims up to 50 miles of all-electric range. Murano has no hybrid or plug-in option. |
| Tow A Small Camper | RAV4 | RAV4 tows up to 3,500 lbs. Murano tows 1,500 lbs. |
| Lower Starting Price | RAV4 | RAV4 starts at $31,900. Murano starts at $41,670. |
| More Front-Seat Stretch | Murano | Murano front legroom is 44.3 in. RAV4 front legroom is 41.0 in. |
| Bigger Cargo Behind The Rear Seats | RAV4 | RAV4 cargo is up to 37.8 cu ft. Murano cargo is 32.9 cu ft. |
| AWD Every Time, No Decisions | Murano | Murano is AWD-only. RAV4 offers AWD or FWD, depending on trim. |
| Highway Tech That Feels Premium | Murano | Murano offers ProPILOT Assist 2.1 (hands-free on compatible roads). RAV4 offers Traffic Jam Assist under 25 mph on controlled-access highways (Drive Connect required). |
Quick subscription reality check. Both brands tie some advanced features to trials and subscriptions. Toyota’s Traffic Jam Assist needs an active Drive Connect trial or subscription. Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist 2.1 is tied to Nissan Connect Services and includes 3 years with a qualifying new purchase or lease. I always ask the dealer for the post-trial monthly price in writing.
Smart Alternatives (Fix The Wrong Cross-Shop Problem)
I see people cross-shop Murano vs RAV4 because they are both 2-row SUVs. But they play in different lanes. Murano is a comfort-first midsize 2-row. RAV4 is a value-first compact with hybrid efficiency.
If You Want Murano Comfort But Less Size
These give you a similar “nice daily driver” vibe, but in a smaller footprint and usually with a lower entry price.
| Model (Typical 2025 Picks) | Starts Around | MPG (Combined) | Cargo Behind 2nd Row |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Rogue | $28,590 | 33 (FWD) | 31.6 cu ft |
| Mazda CX-5 | $29,050 | 25 | 30.8 cu ft |
| Subaru Outback | $31,415 | 28 | 32.6 cu ft |
| Honda CR-V Hybrid | $34,650 | 40 (FWD) | 36.3 cu ft |
| Hyundai Tucson Hybrid | $33,465 | 38 | 38.7 cu ft |
How I’d choose from this list.
- If you want the easiest fuel savings, I go CR-V Hybrid first.
- If you want a simple, solid highway feel, I look at Outback.
- If you want the “small but upscale” vibe, I look at CX-5 in mid trims.
If You Want RAV4 Efficiency But More Cabin Comfort
These keep the mpg story strong, but lean harder into interior materials, noise control, and tech polish.
| Model (Typical 2025 Picks) | Starts Around | MPG (Combined) | Cargo Behind 2nd Row |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Crown Signia | $44,090 | 38 | Up to 25.8 cu ft |
| Lexus NX 350h | $45,425 | 39 | 22.7 cu ft |
| Honda CR-V Hybrid (Upper Trims) | $34,650+ | 37 to 40 | 36.3 cu ft |
| Kia Sportage Hybrid | $28,790 (FWD) | 43 (FWD) or 38 (AWD) | 39.5 cu ft |
| Hyundai Tucson Hybrid | $33,465 | 38 | 38.7 cu ft |
My quick warning here. Some of these “nicer cabin” picks give up cargo. NX 350h is the big example. You get a more premium cockpit, but you only get 22.7 cu ft behind the rear seats. If you live out of the cargo area, I stay in the RAV4 lane. Or I look hard at Sportage Hybrid and Tucson Hybrid.
FAQs
Is The Murano Bigger Than The RAV4?
Yes. Murano is the bigger vehicle by footprint.
Murano is 192.9 inches long and 78.0 inches wide.
RAV4 is about 181.0 inches long and 73.0 inches wide.
Murano also has more passenger volume at 112 cu ft vs 98.9 cu ft.
Which One Gets Better MPG?
RAV4. By a lot.
Murano is rated 21 city, 27 highway, 23 combined mpg.
RAV4 is hybrid-only for 2026, with estimates up to 48 city, 42 highway, 44 combined depending on trim.
Does The RAV4 Come As A Plug-In Hybrid?
Yes. Toyota offers a RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid.
Toyota lists an estimate of up to 52 miles of electric range on plug-in grades.
Which One Tows More?
RAV4.
Murano is rated up to 1,500 lbs.
RAV4 is rated up to 3,500 lbs on select AWD grades.
Which One Is Cheaper To Insure?
Most of the time, the RAV4.
It usually costs less to replace because the MSRP is lower and it sells in higher volume.
But insurance is zip-code math. Get quotes for the exact trims you want.
Which One Holds Value Better?
RAV4.
One iSeeCars comparison shows 5-year depreciation of about 55.3% for Murano vs 30.3% for RAV4.
That gap can be bigger than fuel savings for some owners.
Key Takeaways
- Murano starts at $41,670 MSRP. RAV4 starts at $31,900 MSRP.
- Murano is bigger: 192.9 in long and 78.0 in wide. RAV4 is about 181.0 in long and 73.0 in wide.
- Murano has more passenger volume: 112 cu ft vs 98.9 cu ft.
- RAV4 carries more cargo behind the second row: up to 37.8 cu ft vs 32.9 cu ft.
- RAV4 tows more: up to 3,500 lbs. Murano is 1,500 lbs.
- Murano mpg is 21/27/23. RAV4 hybrid estimates reach 48/42/44 depending on trim.
- RAV4 offers a plug-in hybrid with up to 52 miles of electric range (estimate).
- Murano AWD is standard. RAV4 AWD depends on trim, and some trims are FWD.
- Resale usually favors RAV4. One 5-year depreciation comparison shows 30.3% value loss for RAV4 vs 55.3% for Murano.
Sources
- Nissan Murano Model Page
- Toyota RAV4 Model Page
- RepairPal: Toyota RAV4 Reliability
- Edmunds: Mazda CX-5
- Cars.com: 2025 Lexus NX 350h Specs
Hey there,
How is it going?
I’m Meraj Sarker. I am a Car Mechanic and a student of Automobile Restoration here in Florida, USA. I’ve been studying automotive for around 9 years now. So you can rely on my recommendation. For me, studying and getting knowledge about automobile it’s really fun and entertaining. I will help you to get solutions for your car through this website. If you need any help let me know.