2026 Toyota Grand Highlander 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 horizontal 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 window tops, 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 downgrade from genuine leather to leatherette was a notable change.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid adopted a conservative design, drawing inspiration from the previous-generation RAV4, resulting in a larger version with seating for up to eight and ample cargo space. The interior prioritized function, with the Platinum trim adding a layer of luxury. However, the use of glossy hard plastic and unlined storage surfaces was evident. The climate system was user-friendly, with large knobs for temperature adjustments, but the infotainment interface had a small volume knob and lacked a tuning knob. The Grand Highlander Hybrid Max, with its turbocharged 2.4-liter engine and electronic AWD, delivered 362 horsepower, offering a balance of performance and efficiency. It achieved 27 mpg and could tow up to 5,000 pounds. The ride quality was soft and isolating, though handling was secure only up to a modest point. Visibility was excellent, aided by multiple cameras, although the front camera's frequent screen takeover was a minor annoyance.

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 produced 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, offering improved acceleration over the previous V6. The nine-speed automatic was a significant upgrade from 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, though the narrow rear windshield posed some challenges. Active noise cancellation was standard, with an enhanced version available in models equipped with the Bose audio system.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max emphasized performance with its turbocharged 2.4-liter engine and electronic full-time AWD, producing 362 horsepower. This setup allowed for quick acceleration, aided by a traditional six-speed automatic transmission that avoided the droning typical of CVTs. While the Hybrid Max sacrificed some fuel efficiency, achieving 27 mpg compared to the regular hybrid's 36 mpg, it offered a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. During testing, it averaged 23.3 mpg on a mountainous route. The powertrain's acceleration was smooth, with electric motors eliminating turbo lag. The ride quality was soft, though road undulations could cause some vertical and lateral movement. Handling was secure at moderate speeds, but the vehicle felt large on narrow roads.

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 settings were only accessible through the screen. The Zero Gravity seats in the first and second rows were comfortable, though rear-seat heating was limited to the Platinum trim. Front-row space improved 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 at 36.3 inches. Cargo volume was competitive, with 32.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet with seats folded. A power liftgate was standard, with foot activation on the Platinum trim.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander offered comfortable seating across all three rows, with nearly 100 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. The Platinum trim featured a Portobello interior with leather and artificial suede upholstery. The front and second-row seats were heated and ventilated, though the rear doors' design posed challenges for child seat installation. The second-row captain’s chairs allowed for easy third-row access. The third row was reasonably comfortable for adults and tall teens, with ample space behind the headrests. Cargo space was generous, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 97.5 cubic feet with the second row down.

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. 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 on some of Nissan's larger models.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system across all trims, with higher trims offering a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and access to Apple Music and Amazon Music. Toyota Connected Services offered features like a Wi-Fi hotspot and a digital voice assistant. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the font was sometimes hard to read. The digital voice assistant responded well to commands, and the Platinum trim included a head-up display, digital rear-view mirror, and JBL premium audio system.

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 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, and new features included a passenger's side airbag and a 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. Proactive Driving Assist was standard, though it was often turned off due to its intrusiveness. The Grand Highlander received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but fell short of a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS due to headlight performance and frontal-impact protection.