2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs 2025 Nissan Murano

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 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 at 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 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the evolutionary improvements seen in previous generations, with subtle exterior updates like a frameless grille and aerodynamic wheel arch cladding. The hybrid was available in Sport and Limited trims, with the Limited Hybrid offering a balance of rugged utility and refined comfort inside. The cabin maintained Subaru's straightforward design, with consistent material quality and distinctive orange contrast stitching on the gray StarTex seats. Chrome-trimmed power window switches added an upscale touch, and the Limited Hybrid included a heated steering wheel and optional power moonroof. Despite its rugged appeal, the Crosstrek Hybrid's interior was thoughtfully designed for both comfort and practicality.

The 2025 Nissan Murano introduced a new powertrain with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, known as the 'VC turbo' for its variable compression ratio system, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This engine delivered 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, offering a torquier and potentially faster acceleration compared to the previous V6. The nine-speed automatic was a significant improvement over the old CVT, enhancing highway passing capabilities. While the base Murano offered both FWD and AWD, the SL and Platinum trims were AWD by default. Visibility was generally good, although the narrow rear windshield posed some challenges. Noise cancellation was effective, especially in the Platinum AWD model equipped with the enhanced Bose audio system.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-liter Atkinson/Miller-cycle engine and a 118-hp traction motor, resulting in a total system output of 194 horsepower. This made it the fastest Crosstrek to date, with smoother acceleration than the gas-only version. The hybrid system utilized two motor-generators for engine start/stop, battery charging, and wheel assistance. During testing, the Crosstrek Hybrid achieved 31 mpg, slightly below the EPA's estimate of 36 mpg. Subaru's AWD system, combined with the X-Mode traction management system, provided superior off-road capability compared to competitors. The steering was light but precise, thanks to a revised dual-pinion steering rack, and body lean was reduced compared to older models.

The 2025 Nissan Murano continued to offer impressive comfort features, including standard heated and power-adjustable front seats, with the Platinum trim adding massage functionality. The Zero Gravity seats provided comfort, though rear-seat heating was now exclusive to the Platinum trim. Interior dimensions were a mixed bag, with increased front legroom and headroom but reduced rear legroom. Cargo volume was competitive, with 32.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet with them folded. A power liftgate was standard, with foot activation available on the Platinum trim.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid improved upon its predecessors by offering more horsepower and cargo space. The hybrid's cargo volume was 18.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.6 cubic feet with them folded. The gas tank remained at 16.6 gallons, allowing for an impressive range of 597 miles. Rear-seat legroom was generous at 36.7 inches, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. While front storage was limited, the Crosstrek Hybrid included a wireless charging pad and deep door pockets for practicality.

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, with four USB type C ports standard. The SL trim added Google Built-In, a Bose Premium audio system, and ambient lighting. The Platinum trim included a head-up display, a feature not standard on some competitors' higher trims.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, but the software was slow and prone to fingerprints. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the Starlink software was less competitive. The Limited Hybrid featured a Harman Kardon stereo and a configurable 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, though it couldn't display Google Maps from phone projections.

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 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 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid received mixed safety ratings, with the IIHS not awarding a Top Safety Pick designation due to marginal crash test scores. However, the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall rating. Subaru's EyeSight ADAS included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking, though it lacked a semi-autonomous driving system.