Nissan Murano vs Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

The 2025 Nissan Murano presented a fresh and modern exterior design, characterized by a new front look with a next-gen lighting signature featuring a wing motif. This design flowed seamlessly into the grille's horizontal slats, creating a cohesive appearance distinct from its predecessor. The Murano appeared wider, not only due to its horizontal design elements but also because it was nearly seven and a half centimetres wider and had an additional 3.5 centimetres of ground clearance. The chrome arch along the windows and the winged LEDs were notable styling elements, although not entirely original, as they were reminiscent of the Hyundai Tucson. However, the Murano's design was more cohesive and sophisticated compared to its competitors.

Inside, the Murano's interior updates were less dramatic but still modernized with a sleeker, horizontally oriented dash layout. The infotainment screen was integrated into a single housing with the driver information display, reducing overall screen real estate. The steering wheel featured a new design with a bar across the middle, and the gear selector was replaced with a push-button system, streamlining the centre console. The interior materials included a "Murano glass-inspired" treatment, adding an ombre effect to trim pieces, enhancing the aesthetic appeal. However, the SL trim's seating surfaces were downgraded to leatherette from genuine leather.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid followed a conservative design path, drawing inspiration from the previous-generation RAV4. This approach resulted in a larger RAV4-like appearance with seating for up to eight and ample cargo space. The interior emphasized function over form, with a layer of luxury in the Platinum trim. While the material quality was decent, the use of glossy hard plastic and unlined storage surfaces explained the vehicle's value proposition. The climate system was user-friendly, but the infotainment interface had some drawbacks, such as a small volume knob and the absence of a tuning knob.

The Grand Highlander Hybrid Max powertrain, based on a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine with electronic full-time AWD and two electric motors, delivered 362 net horsepower. This setup provided satisfying acceleration and avoided the droning common in CVTs. However, the Hybrid Max's fuel economy was rated at 8.8 L/100 km combined, with observed figures slightly higher during testing. The ride quality was soft and isolating, but handling was secure only up to a modest point. Outward visibility was excellent, aided by available camera systems, although the front camera's frequent screen takeover was occasionally disruptive.

The 2025 Nissan Murano introduced a new powertrain featuring a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, known as VC-Turbo, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This engine produced 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, offering improved acceleration compared to the previous V6 engine. The nine-speed automatic transmission was a significant improvement over the old CVT, enhancing the Murano's responsiveness. Standard AWD provided added traction, and higher trims offered features like Transparent Hood View for improved visibility.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max emphasized performance with its turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine and electronic full-time AWD, producing 362 net horsepower. This powertrain delivered impressive acceleration, aided by electric motors that eliminated turbo lag. However, the Hybrid Max's fuel economy was rated at 8.8 L/100 km combined, with observed figures slightly higher during testing. The Grand Highlander Hybrid Max also offered a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms, making it a versatile choice for those needing to tow.

The 2025 Nissan Murano offered standard heated and power-adjustable front seats, with the Platinum trim adding massage functionality. The interior featured Nissan's Zero Gravity seats, providing comfort in both the front and second rows. However, the second row's legroom decreased to 922 millimetres, which was less than some competitors. Cargo volume was competitive, with 931 litres of storage space behind the rear seats and a power liftgate as standard.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid provided comfortable seating in all three rows, with the Platinum trim offering leather and artificial suede upholstery. The second-row captain's chairs allowed for easy access to the third row, which was reasonably comfortable for adults and tall teens. Cargo space was generous, with 586 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,761 litres with the second row folded. However, some storage locations were unlined, potentially contributing to noise and vibration.

The 2025 Nissan Murano was well-equipped with tech features, including wireless charging, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The infotainment system featured a dual 12.3-inch screen setup, with additional features like Google Built-In and a Bose Premium Series audio system available on higher trims. The Murano Platinum added a head-up display for enhanced driver information.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various Toyota Connected Services. The system was user-friendly, although some frustrations included the inability to view multiple main-menu screens simultaneously. The Platinum trim included features like a colour head-up display, a camera-based digital rear-view mirror, and a JBL premium audio system.

The 2025 Nissan Murano came standard with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, including lane departure warning, blind spot warning, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims featured ProPILOT Assist 1.1, which used navigation data to anticipate curves and adjust speed. The Murano also added a passenger's side airbag and reinforced seating for improved safety.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. Proactive Driving Assist was standard, although it could be irritating in certain situations. The Grand Highlander received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but fell short of the IIHS Top Safety Pick rating due to headlight performance and small overlap frontal-impact protection.