Nissan Murano vs Toyota bZ

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 lining the windows, intersecting with black trim towards the rear. While some styling cues 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 switch from genuine leather to leatherette was a notable downgrade.

The 2026 Toyota bZ was available in XLE and Limited trims, with options for single-motor FWD or dual-motor AWD, and two battery sizes. The XLE Plus, with its larger battery, offered improved power and range. The bZ's exterior design was enhanced with body-color trim, improving its appeal over previous models. Inside, the dashboard and center console were redesigned for a cleaner look, with a 14-inch center touchscreen integrating climate controls. The fabric seats featured an upscale pattern, and the digital driver display, though informative, was criticized for its placement and readability. The bZ's infotainment system was user-friendly, though it lacked a home screen for simultaneous data display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with several connected service plans.

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

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of power and efficiency options. The XLE FWD with a 57.7-kWh battery provided 165 horsepower and a 236-mile range, while the larger 74.7-kWh battery increased power to 224 hp and range to 314 miles. Dual-motor AWD models produced 338 hp, with varying ranges and efficiency ratings. The bZ supported fast charging and was compatible with Tesla Superchargers. Efficiency tests showed favorable results, though the bZ lacked one-pedal driving capability. The bZ was a comfortable cruiser, though its handling on winding roads was limited by its tires and steering.

The 2025 Nissan Murano continued to offer impressive comfort features, with standard heated and power-adjustable front seats. The Platinum trim added massage functionality, though heated seat controls were screen-based. Both rows featured Zero Gravity seats, with the front row offering increased leg and headroom. However, the second row lost legroom compared to the previous generation. Cargo space was competitive, with 32.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a power liftgate standard.

The 2026 Toyota bZ, built on an EV platform, offered easy access with 8.1 inches of ground clearance. Front seats featured eight-way power adjustment, with heated and ventilated options in the Limited trim. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage solutions. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, though foot space was limited. Cargo space was 27.7 cubic feet, with underfloor storage and a power liftgate standard.

The 2025 Nissan Murano was well-equipped with tech features, including wireless charging and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The dual 12.3-inch screens provided a modern interface, with additional features like Google Built-In and a Bose audio system available on higher trims. The Platinum trim added a head-up display, enhancing the tech offerings.

The 2026 Toyota bZ featured a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While the driver display's placement was criticized, the infotainment system was generally user-friendly. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with several connected service plans available. The voice assistant performed well, though some interface improvements were suggested.

The 2025 Nissan Murano came standard with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, including lane-departure warning and automatic emergency braking. ProPILOT Assist was added, with advanced features on higher trims. The Murano's safety offerings were expected to improve upon its predecessor's Top Safety Pick+ rating, with additional airbags and reinforced seating.

The 2026 Toyota bZ included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, with features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. Proactive Driving Assist provided subtle braking and steering inputs. The Limited trim offered advanced features like Traffic Jam Assist. While the bZ's front-crash avoidance tech received high ratings, its headlights and frontal-impact crash-test ratings were less favorable.