2025 Nissan Murano vs Nissan Pathfinder: What's Better?

When it comes to choosing the right SUV, the 2025 Nissan Murano and Nissan Pathfinder stand out as two of the top options in Nissan's lineup. While both are known for their reliability and cutting-edge features, they cater to different needs and lifestyles. The Murano is a sleek and stylish two-row crossover designed for those who value comfort and efficiency, while the Pathfinder is a versatile three-row SUV built for families who need extra space and power. So, which one is right for you? Whether you're commuting through Crystal Lake or heading on an adventure near Woodstock, M'Lady Nissan is here to help you make the best choice. Visit us today to explore both models and experience the difference firsthand!

How Do the 2025 Nissan Murano and Nissan Pathfinder Compare in Terms of Size and Seating?

When comparing the 2025 Nissan Murano and Nissan Pathfinder, size and seating are key differences that help determine which model is the right fit for you. The Murano and Pathfinder cater to different types of drivers, and their seating configurations reflect that.

Size and Seating in the 2025 Nissan Murano

The 2025 Nissan Murano is a two-row crossover SUV, ideal for those who want a spacious interior without going overboard. It seats five passengers comfortably. The Murano’s interior is designed for a more refined, luxurious experience, with ample legroom and headroom in both rows.

• Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
• Front Seating: Spacious, with comfortable seats for long drives
• Rear Seating: Generous space for two adults, though it’s best for shorter trips with three passengers
• Cargo Space: 32.1 cubic feet behind the second row, perfect for everyday errands or weekend getaways

Size and Seating in the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, on the other hand, is a three-row SUV, offering more flexibility for families or those needing extra seating. It provides room for up to eight passengers, making it a better option for larger families or people who often travel with a group. The third row can be a bit tight for adults, but it works great for kids or additional passengers.

• Seating Capacity: 7 or 8 passengers, depending on configuration
• Front Seating: Comfortable with ample space for both driver and front passenger
• Middle Row: Offers plenty of legroom and can be equipped with captain’s chairs for extra comfort
• Third Row: Best suited for children or short trips with adults
• Cargo Space: 16.6 cubic feet with all seats up, which expands to 45.0 cubic feet when the third row is down

The Verdict: Which SUV Offers the Best Seating for You?

If you’re looking for a more spacious, family-friendly ride, the Pathfinder’s three-row seating is a clear advantage. It’s perfect for larger groups and those who need more cargo room for long trips. The Murano, with its luxurious and comfortable two-row layout, is ideal for smaller families or individuals who prioritize style, efficiency, and a refined driving experience.

In the end, whether you choose the Murano or the Pathfinder, both offer excellent seating options—it's just a matter of how much space you need for passengers and cargo.

What Makes the 2025 Nissan Murano a Premium Midsize SUV?

The 2025 Nissan Murano stands out as a premium midsize SUV. Its refined design, advanced features, and high-quality materials create a more upscale experience than other options in its class. If you're looking for a blend of style and luxury, the Murano is a perfect choice.

Here are some key features that make the Murano a premium option:

• Stylish Interior: The Murano offers soft-touch materials, leather seating, and wood-tone accents. These features create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
• Advanced Technology: Equipped with a 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an available 360-degree camera system, the Murano ensures that every drive is convenient and connected.
• Comfort and Convenience: Features like heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat enhance the driving experience.
• Quiet Cabin: Noise reduction technology helps to keep the cabin calm and quiet, offering a peaceful ride, even on busy roads.
• Premium Trim Options: Available trims like the Murano Platinum add even more luxury features, including ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and upgraded materials.

The Murano is designed to meet the needs of those who appreciate luxury in a midsize SUV. Its sleek design and premium touches set it apart from other SUVs, including its sibling, the Pathfinder, which focuses more on utility and space. The Murano’s balance of elegance and practicality makes it the right choice for those seeking both style and substance.

How Does the Nissan Pathfinder Stand Out as a Family-Friendly SUV?

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder is designed to meet the needs of families who want both space and practicality. With its three-row seating, roomy interior, and family-friendly features, it’s a standout choice for anyone who needs more room for passengers and gear. Compared to the Murano, which is perfect for a more refined, compact experience, the Pathfinder is built for those seeking versatility.

Here’s what makes the Pathfinder a top pick for families:

• Spacious Interior: With seating for up to eight people, the Pathfinder offers ample room for growing families or carpooling. The third-row seats provide extra space for children or adults on longer trips.
• Easy Access: The Pathfinder’s wide doors and large seats make it easier for children and older adults to get in and out of the vehicle comfortably. Plus, the second-row seats slide forward with the pull of a lever to create extra space for third-row passengers.
• Cargo Capacity: When the third-row seats are down, the Pathfinder offers a generous amount of cargo space for large items like strollers, sports gear, or luggage.
• Family-Oriented Features: The Pathfinder comes equipped with a rear-seat entertainment system, USB ports for devices, and a tri-zone climate control system, keeping everyone comfortable and entertained on the road.
• Towing Capacity: With a higher towing capacity than the Murano, the Pathfinder is ready to haul a trailer, boat, or camper for family vacations. It can tow up to 6,000 pounds, making it ideal for families who love outdoor adventures.

For families seeking a vehicle that offers flexibility, the Pathfinder excels. It offers the room and features that the Murano can’t quite match in terms of space, making it a perfect choice for larger families or those who need more room for gear. Whether it’s road trips, carpooling, or everyday commuting, the Pathfinder delivers.

How Do Performance and Power Differ Between the Murano and Pathfinder?

When it comes to power and performance, the 2025 Nissan Murano and Pathfinder cater to different needs. Whether you’re looking for a smooth, efficient ride or the ability to tow heavy loads, both SUVs offer strong performance, but there are key differences based on their design.

Here’s a breakdown of how the two compare:

2025 Nissan Murano:

• Engine Power: The Murano is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower. This engine provides a balanced mix of power and fuel efficiency for those who prioritize daily driving comfort and easy handling.
• Transmission: The Murano uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which smooths out acceleration and helps improve fuel economy.
• Towing Capacity: While the Murano is capable of towing up to 1,500 pounds, it’s not designed for heavy hauling. It’s best suited for light towing needs like small trailers or boats.
• Fuel Efficiency: With its lighter weight and efficient engine, the Murano offers great fuel economy, particularly on highways. Expect an average of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

2025 Nissan Pathfinder:

• Engine Power: The Pathfinder features a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 284 horsepower, offering a noticeable boost in power compared to the Murano. This extra horsepower gives the Pathfinder a stronger, more robust performance, particularly for handling larger loads.
• Transmission: Like the Murano, the Pathfinder also has a CVT, which helps maintain smooth shifting. However, its additional power gives it a more capable feel on the road.
• Towing Capacity: One of the major advantages of the Pathfinder is its towing capability. With a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds, it can handle larger trailers, boats, and RVs—perfect for families or adventurers needing extra hauling power.
• Fuel Efficiency: While not as fuel-efficient as the Murano due to its size and power, the Pathfinder still delivers respectable mileage for its class. Expect an average of 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Summary:

• Murano: Best suited for those seeking a fuel-efficient, comfortable ride with moderate towing needs.
• Pathfinder: Ideal for those needing extra horsepower and a higher towing capacity, especially for families or outdoor enthusiasts.

Both SUVs offer impressive performance, but the choice depends on whether you prefer a more fuel-efficient, midsize ride or a three-row SUV with greater power and towing capabilities.

Which SUV Has Better Fuel Efficiency: Murano or Pathfinder?

When comparing the fuel efficiency of these two Nissan SUVs, it’s clear that each is designed for different purposes. The Murano, as a midsize SUV, focuses on delivering a smooth, efficient ride, while the Pathfinder, a larger three-row SUV, offers more space and power but sacrifices a bit of fuel economy for its additional features.

Here’s how they compare in terms of fuel efficiency:

2025 Nissan Murano:

• City: 20 mpg
• Highway: 28 mpg
• Combined: 23 mpg
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gallons

The Murano's lighter weight and efficient 3.5-liter V6 engine contribute to its impressive fuel economy. It’s an excellent option for those who want a midsize SUV that can go the distance on fewer fuel stops.

2025 Nissan Pathfinder:

• City: 20 mpg
• Highway: 27 mpg
• Combined: 22 mpg
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons

While the Pathfinder has slightly lower fuel efficiency compared to the Murano, it’s still competitive for a three-row SUV. Its larger engine and extra power for towing and carrying passengers require a bit more fuel, but it still offers a reasonable balance between performance and efficiency.

Summary:

• Murano: Offers superior highway fuel economy, making it a great choice for long drives and daily commutes.
• Pathfinder: Delivers solid fuel efficiency for a larger, more powerful SUV, but is slightly behind the Murano.

If fuel efficiency is your top priority and you don’t need a lot of space or towing power, the Murano stands out as the more efficient option. However, the Pathfinder’s efficiency is still commendable for its size and capability.

Frequently Asked Questions: 2025 Nissan Murano vs Pathfinder

If you're considering the 2025 Murano or Pathfinder, here are answers to some common questions to help you decide.

How does the 2025 Murano’s seating and cargo space compare to the larger Pathfinder?

• The Murano seats 5 with 32.1 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Pathfinder seats up to 7 with 80.5 cubic feet.

Which is more fuel-efficient, the Murano or the Pathfinder, particularly with AWD?

• The Murano is slightly more fuel-efficient, with 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

Are there big pricing gaps between a loaded Murano and a base Pathfinder?

• Yes, a loaded Murano is often similar in price to a mid-range Pathfinder, but the base Pathfinder is typically higher.

Which model is better suited for family road trips or towing?

• The Pathfinder is better for families and towing, with 6,000 lbs capacity and three rows of seating.

Explore More at M'Lady Nissan: Your Next Step in Finding the Perfect Vehicle

If you're still deciding between the 2025 Nissan Murano and the Pathfinder, we invite you to explore our wide selection at M'Lady Nissan. Whether you're from Chicago, McHenry, Crystal Lake, or Woodstock, we have plenty of options to fit your needs.

Looking for more details on Nissan models? You might also find it helpful to read about how 2025 Nissan models will be impacted by tariffs or discover which Nissan cars are built in the USA. These insights can guide your decision on your next vehicle. Additionally, if you're a first-time car owner, check out our article on the 7 essential maintenance services you can't afford to skip. This can help you keep your car running smoothly for years to come.

Feel free to reach out to us at M'Lady Nissan for more personalized advice, and start your journey with the right vehicle today.