Nissan Murano vs Lexus TX

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 design elements and an actual increase in width by nearly three inches, along with an additional 1.4 inches of ground clearance. The Murano's side profile was accentuated by a chrome arch and black trim, reminiscent of the Hyundai Tucson's styling, yet the Murano's execution 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 visually appealing ombre effect, although the SL trim's downgrade from genuine leather to leatherette was a notable drawback.

The 2026 Lexus TX, available in various trims, offered a few updates for the model year, including a standard panoramic glass roof for the 550h+ and a new Matador Red Mica paint option. The TX retained its large grille and sharp bi-LED headlights, with rear LED lighting spanning the vehicle's width. Inside, the TX provided standard luxury features like multi-zone climate control and heated seats, with the third row offering ample space and amenities such as cupholders and USB-C ports. However, the interior materials fell short of luxury standards, with basic plastics present. The redesigned door handles, while innovative, seemed unnecessary. The TX's cargo space was impressive, with up to 97 cubic feet available when the second and third rows were folded.

The 2025 Nissan Murano introduced a new powertrain with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, producing 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, offered improved acceleration compared to the previous V6 and CVT combination. The Murano's AWD system was standard on higher trims, with the base level offering both FWD and AWD options. Visibility was generally good, although the narrow rear windshield posed some challenges. Noise cancellation was effective, particularly in the Platinum AWD model, which featured an enhanced Bose audio system.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid delivered 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. The TX offered multiple drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom, with Sport mode enhancing throttle response. The ride was smooth and quiet, with the AWD system capable of distributing power between the front and rear wheels. The TX's suspension absorbed bumps well, and the brakes were firm and linear. The plug-in hybrid's battery could be charged in under three hours with a home charger, and the vehicle offered various driving modes to optimize power usage.

The 2025 Nissan Murano continued to offer impressive comfort features, with standard heated and power-adjustable front seats. The Platinum trim added massage functionality, although heated seat settings were only accessible through the screen. The Zero Gravity seats in both rows were comfortable, though rear-seat heating was limited to the Platinum trim. Front-row space was generous, with 44.3 inches of legroom and 39.4 inches of headroom with the panoramic moonroof. However, the second row lost 2.4 inches of legroom, now offering 36.3 inches. Cargo volume was competitive, with 32.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ offered standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control and heated seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and individual amenities. Access to the third row was facilitated by a one-touch button, though folding the second row flat was more complicated. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. The TX's cargo space was excellent, with 20.2 cubic feet available with all seats in place, expanding to 97 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The TX could tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2025 Nissan Murano was well-equipped with tech features, including wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The dual 12.3-inch screens housed infotainment and driver-information displays. The SL trim added Google Built-In, a Bose audio system, and ambient lighting. The Platinum trim offered a head-up display, a feature not standard on some competitors.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch touchscreen, though some features lacked polish, such as the inability to manually input satellite radio stations. The steering wheel buttons were multifunctional but confusing. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occurred. The TX offered a backup camera with a bird’s-eye view and an Advanced Park system. With seven USB ports and wireless charging, device connectivity was well-supported.

The 2025 Nissan Murano came standard with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, including lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, and automatic emergency braking. ProPILOT Assist was added, with higher trims offering a more advanced version. The Murano's safety offerings were enhanced with additional airbags and reinforced seating. The SL and Platinum trims featured a 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor and Invisible Hood View.

The 2026 Lexus TX included the Safety System+ 3.0, with features like forward collision warning, lane centering, and traffic sign recognition. Proactive Driving Assist was also included, though it was often turned off due to its sensitivity. Adaptive cruise control worked well once set up, and hands-free driving was available via subscription. The TX 350 and 500h received five-star NHTSA ratings, while the IIHS gave mixed scores.