2024 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 2024 Nissan Murano
2024 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 2024 Nissan Murano
Posted on June 20, 2024
When it comes to choosing a midsize SUV, the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder and the 2024 Nissan Murano are both compelling options. Each offers a blend of power, comfort, and versatility, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. In this detailed comparison, we’ll explore their powertrains, fuel economy, towing capabilities, and interior space to help you decide which model is the best fit for you.
Powertrains and Performance
Both the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder and the 2024 Nissan Murano feature a 3.5-litre V6 engine, but their performance outputs distinguish them in significant ways.
The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder boasts 284 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 259 ft-lb of torque at 4800 rpm. This power enables strong acceleration and a dynamic driving experience, particularly useful for highway merging and overtaking. The Pathfinder's superior power also translates into impressive towing capabilities. Its base model can tow up to 3,500 pounds, and with the right configuration, it can tow as much as 6,000 pounds. This makes the Pathfinder a versatile choice for those who need to tow boats, trailers, or other heavy loads regularly.
In contrast, the 2024 Nissan Murano delivers 260 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 240 ft-lb of torque at 4400 rpm. While the Murano offers a smooth and refined ride, it doesn't match the Pathfinder's brute strength. Its maximum towing capacity is 1,500 pounds, which limits its utility for heavy towing tasks. However, this level of performance is adequate for lighter duties and daily commuting, where a smooth driving experience might be more critical than raw power.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is a key consideration for many SUV buyers, and both models offer competitive fuel economy ratings, though with some differences.
The Pathfinder has a city fuel consumption rate of 11.9 L/100 km and a highway rate of 10.0 L/100 km, averaging 11.1 L/100 km combined. These figures are respectable for an SUV of its size and capability, making it a balanced choice for those who need both power and efficiency.
The Murano, on the other hand, slightly edges out the Pathfinder in highway efficiency with a rating of 8.5 L/100 km, though its city consumption is slightly higher at 12.0 L/100 km. Overall, the Murano averages 10.4 L/100 km combined, making it a bit more fuel-efficient in mixed driving conditions. This difference might appeal to buyers prioritizing lower fuel costs over maximum towing capacity.
Towing Capabilities
Towing capacity is a significant differentiator between these two models. The Pathfinder excels with its 3,500 pounds base towing capacity, extendable up to 6,000 pounds. This makes it an excellent choice for families who need to tow boats, trailers, or heavy equipment.
In contrast, the Murano offers a towing capacity of just 1,500 pounds. This lower capacity is more suited for small trailers or light-duty tasks, reflecting its design focus on comfort and everyday usability rather than heavy-duty performance.
Interior Space and Comfort
Interior space is crucial for any SUV buyer, and both the Pathfinder and Murano have their strengths in this area.
The Pathfinder accommodates 7 to 8 passengers, making it ideal for larger families or those who frequently travel with groups. Its spacious interior includes generous headroom and legroom across all rows, ensuring comfort on long journeys. Specific measurements include front headroom ranging from 1,046 to 1,074 mm, front legroom of 1,125 mm, and rear legroom of 902 mm. The shoulder room is also ample, with 1,544 mm in the front and 1,514 mm in the rear.
The Murano is designed to seat up to 5 passengers, which is adequate for smaller families or couples. Despite having fewer seats, the Murano doesn’t skimp on comfort. It offers front headroom of 968 mm, front legroom of 1,029 mm, and rear legroom of 983 mm. The shoulder room is slightly narrower than the Pathfinder's, with 1,511 mm in the front and 1,496 mm in the rear.
In terms of cargo space, the Pathfinder offers more flexibility and volume, accommodating larger loads, which is a plus for active families with substantial storage needs.
2024 Nissan Pathfinder vs 2024 Nissan Murano Comparison Table
| Specification | 2024 Nissan Pathfinder | 2024 Nissan Murano |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Capacity | 7-8 | 5 |
| Front Head Room | 1,074 mm | 968 mm |
| Front Leg Room | 1,125 mm | 1,029 mm |
| Front Shoulder Room | 1,544 mm | 1,511 mm |
| Rear Head Room | 1,008 mm | 960 mm |
| Rear Leg Room | 902 mm | 983 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 1,514 mm | 1,496 mm |
| Horsepower | 284 hp @ 6400 rpm | 260 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 259 ft-lb @ 4800 rpm | 240 ft-lb @ 4400 rpm |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 - 6,000 pounds | 1,500 pounds |
| Fuel Consumption (City) | 11.9 L/100 km | 12.0 L/100 km |
| Fuel Consumption (Highway) | 10.0 L/100 km | 8.5 L/100 km |
| Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 11.1 L/100 km | 8.5 L/100 km |
In summary, the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder is the better option for those needing more power, higher towing capacity, and greater passenger and cargo space. The 2024 Nissan Murano, however, offers a more fuel-efficient drive and sufficient performance for those who prioritize everyday comfort and lighter duties. Your Nissan choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and how you intend to use your vehicle.