Lexus RX Vs Nissan Murano

Nissan Murano

VS

Lexus RX

Welcome to the review and comparison between the 2012 Nissan Murano Vs the Lexus RX. The Murano has just received another update this year in the form of a new front end. The only thing that was wrong with the front was that it too much shiny plastic for it to be lovable by many. However take that away and you’ll be left with just another nice looking medium-ish sized SUV. This year’s update sees a re-designed front and a CVT automatic transmission.

We are comparing the Murano with the RX since they both stand apart from the rest as having a quality interiors and exteriors above the other similar sized SUVs.  For example the interior of the Nissan in particular is a step up from say the Toyota Kluger which we think is the overall bench mark and in some ways better in feel than the Lexus. The Murano’s interior is inspired by the Infiniti and it is a very nice place to be. The RX is nice too but we don’t think its as nice considering the price gap.

The Lexus RX model has been updated for 2012 which include cosmetic and equipment upgrades, the biggest change is the introduction of the RX270 variant with a new 4 cylinder engine. The price gap is now around $10,000 between the top range Nissan and the cheapest RX270 two cars but  honestly the Lexus seems overpriced. Sure there’s the prestige aspect to the comparison and that’s up to you if the large premium is worth it.

We’ve driven various Lexus RX models and think it’s OK (see the other review pages) but we have yet to drive the CVT equipped Nissan Murano. In the end its all about image and brand which one you choose.

Nissan Murano	Lexus RX
Engines
VQ35-DE V6 Petrol (95 Octane) DOHC VVT EFI 3.5 Litre (3498cc) Claimed 191Kw @ 6000RPM Claimed 336Nm @ 4400RPM	2GR-FE V6 Petrol Quad Cam with VVT EFI 3.5 Litre (3456cc) Claimed 204Kw @ 6200 RPM Claimed 346Nm @ 4700 RPM 2GR-FXE V6 Petrol Quad Cam with VVT EFI 3.5 Litre (3456cc) Claimed 188Kw @ 6000 RPM Claimed 317Nm @ 4800 RPM Front: 123Kw 355Nm Electric motor Rear: 50Kw 139Nm Electric motor 1AR-FE IL4 Petrol (91 Octane) DOHC with VVT EFI 2.7 Litre (2699cc) Claimed 138Kw @ 5800 RPM Claimed 252Nm @ 4200 RPM
Weight
Kerb weight FROM 1850Kg Towing capacity up to 1500kg	Kerb weight FROM 1975 – 2205kg Towing capacity up to 2000Kg
Fuel capacity & consumption
82 litres V6 Petrol 10.9 litres per 100km	65 litres IL4 Petrol 9.7 litres per 100km  V6 Petrol 10.8 litres per 100km V6 Petrol Hybrid 6.4 litres per 100km (95 Octane and above only)
Other specifications
CVT Auto transmission  Overall height/width 1730/1885 Overall length/wheelbase 4860/2825 Track (front/rear) 1610/1610 NCAP safety rating x/5	6 Spd Auto or CVT transmission Overall height/width 1720/1845 Overall length/wheelbase 4770/2750 4WD system: AWD and selectable modes ANCAP 5/5
Capability
Angle of: (degrees) Approach ??? Departure ??? Breakover ??? 4WD system: 2WD or AWD with selectable modes Minimum ground clearance xxxmm	Angle of: (degrees)  Approach ??? Departure ??? Breakover ??? 4WD system: AWD with selectable modes Minimum ground clearance xxxmm
Performance
	2GR-FE  0-100kph 7.8 secs 2GR-FXE  0-100kph 7.8 secs 1AR-FE 0-100kph 11 Secs
Pricing
2012 $47,990 – 58,390 AUD  2010 $45,990 – 57,890 AUD  *Always check with the dealer  for up to date pricing, on-roads  and specials accessories etc…	2012 RX270 From $69,900 AUD 2011 RX350 From $82,900 AUD 2010 RX450h From $89,900 AUD