Nissan Murano vs Chevrolet Bolt

The 2025 Nissan Murano showcased a completely revamped front design, featuring a next-gen lighting signature with a wing motif of horizontal lines that seamlessly integrated into the grille's slats. This new face was distinct from its predecessor, appearing wider due to both its horizontal design elements and its increased dimensions—nearly three inches wider with an additional 1.4 inches of ground clearance. The Murano's side profile was accentuated by a chrome arch lining the windows, intersecting with black trim at the rear. While some styling elements were reminiscent of the Hyundai Tucson, the Murano's design was more cohesive and sophisticated. Standard 20-inch wheels were offered, with the Platinum trim boasting 21-inch wheels. Inside, the Murano's interior was modernized with a sleeker dash layout, fewer buttons, and a push-button gear selector. The new "Murano glass-inspired" treatment on the dash and door cards added a unique aesthetic, although the SL trim's seating was downgraded to leatherette.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt retained a familiar look with slight styling changes, presenting a front end more akin to a conventional gas-powered car. The model continued as a single body style, combining elements of a large hatchback and a subcompact SUV. The Bolt's interior underwent a more significant makeover, featuring a larger digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The push-button gear selector was relocated to the steering column, enhancing center console storage. Despite the prevalence of hard plastic surfaces, the Bolt offered padded elbow touchpoints and Evotex synthetic leather with red stitching in the RS trim. The rear seating area, however, lacked padding for the door armrests.

The 2025 Nissan Murano introduced a new powertrain with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, known as the 'VC turbo,' paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This engine delivered 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, offering a torquier experience compared to the previous V6. The nine-speed automatic was a significant improvement over the old CVT, enhancing acceleration and highway passing capabilities. While front-wheel drive was available at the base level, SL and Platinum trims came standard with all-wheel drive. The Murano's high beltline did not hinder visibility, and higher trims offered an Invisible Hood View for improved sightlines. Active noise cancellation was standard, with an enhanced version available in models equipped with the Bose audio system.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured a new 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron phosphate battery pack, reducing costs and reliance on rare earth minerals. A motor from the Chevy Equinox EV provided 210 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels, with 0-60 mph times similar to the previous Bolt EV. The Bolt's acceleration was quick compared to gas-powered subcompact SUVs, with immediate pedal response. One-pedal driving was available, with medium or high brake regeneration settings. The ride was firm but not overly stiff, and the Bolt's low center of gravity contributed to its agility on curvy roads. The 2027 Bolt offered an EPA-estimated range of up to 262 miles, with a Tesla-derived NACS charge port and increased charging speed of 150 kW.

The 2025 Nissan Murano continued to offer impressive comfort features, including standard heated and power-adjustable front seats. The Platinum trim added massage functionality, easily accessible via a button near the seat-adjustment controls. Heated seat settings were screen-accessible, but Google Built-In allowed voice commands for adjustments. Both rows featured Nissan's Zero Gravity seats, with the front row offering increased leg and headroom. However, the second row lost 2.4 inches of legroom. Cargo volume was competitive, with 32.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a power liftgate standard.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt provided an upright driving position with ample space for larger occupants. Taller drivers might have wished for more telescoping extension from the steering wheel. The rear seats offered plenty of headroom and adequate thigh support, with a flat floor reducing the penalty for center-seat passengers. The Bolt's cargo capacity was 16.2 cubic feet, with a large bin underneath the floor for additional storage. The rear seatbacks folded flat with the cargo floor, and the release latches were easily accessible. Upfront, ample storage options included a large bin with dividers, a big floor tray, and a deep center armrest bin.

The 2025 Nissan Murano was well-equipped with tech features, including wireless charging, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The monolith-style display housed two 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and driver information. Four USB type C ports were standard. The SL trim added Google Built-In, a 10-speaker Bose audio system, and a 64-color ambient lighting system. The Platinum trim included a head-up display, a feature not standard even on the Armada's Platinum Reserve trim.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch center touchscreen, running on a Google-based operating system. Apple CarPlay and standalone Android Auto were not supported, but Bluetooth pairing allowed access to personal music libraries. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, a digital rear-view mirror, and a wireless charging pad. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with logical menus and quick responses. The Bolt's navigation system could locate charging stations and precondition the battery for optimal charging rates. Vehicle-to-load charging was also available.

The 2025 Nissan Murano came standard with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, including lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. ProPILOT Assist was added, with SL and Platinum trims featuring ProPILOT Assist 1.1 for enhanced navigation-based speed adjustments. The Murano's safety offerings were improved with a passenger's side airbag, reinforced seating, and a 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor with moving-object detection.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt's crash test results were not yet available, but it was expected to achieve high scores based on its platform. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitors, and a safety alert seat. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, a digital rear-view mirror, and rear-pedestrian alert. GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving system was available for an additional cost.