Mazda CX-9 vs Nissan Murano 04/01/2011
Despite waning popularity in the past few years, nearly every automaker still offers multiple SUVs, which can make it tough to choose between them all. We recently compared the Mazda CX-9 and Nissan Murano side-by-side in order to help drivers decide between the two.
The Murano is just a bit cheaper at $29,050, although the CX-9 is very close in price at $29,135. Both manufacturers back the vehicles with a 5 year/60,000 mile powertrain warranty.
We give the edge to the CX-9 under the hood. For starters, it features a shiftable automatic transmission, which is always a plus. The Mazda's V6 engine produces 273 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, enough to beat the Murano's 260 hp and 240 lb-ft.
The interior is a closer call, as neither vehicle offers much in the way of standard features. The Mazda comes equipped with built-in Bluetooth support, while Nissan's Murano enjoys keyless ignition. Both SUVs tie many of their features to more expensive trim levels, but the CX-9 is a bit more flexible in providing some options a la carte.
In the end, the superior power on the CX-9 allows Mazda to beat the Nissan Murano - although just barely.