If you’re in the market for a used SUV, there are two standout models, the Murano and the RAV4. Each occupies distinct classes, offering you a wide range of features that suit your needs. Here is your used Nissan Murano vs Toyota RAV4 comparison.
Key Takeaways:
- If you want a third row, the RAV4 is the one you need.
- Both vehicles offer hybrid and EV options, with the RAV4 seeing an electric-based platform first.
- Both models saw the best safety features that they offer in the same year.
- The RAV4 hybrid can tow 1750 pounds.
Second Generation Murano (2007-2013)
The Murano is a mid-size crossover SUV, and when the second generation hit the roads, it was available on three trims. The trims are the S, SL, and LE. The two lower-end trims come with FWD, with iAWD as an option. While the top-of-the-line trim comes as iAWD standard.
If you want the most out of a Murano this generation, then look for the LE trim. This will get you power fold-up seats, iPod integration, and a power lift gate. While it does offer great features, it doesn't offer a third row, as is with the rest of the lineup.
This generation was equipped with a 3.5L engine that can get 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. It also has an EPA rating of 20 combined MPG.
Third Generation Murano (2014-2024)
When this generation first came out, it was still using the same engine as before. This was due to Nissan having big changes in mind a few years later. For model year 2016, the hybrid was introduced.
The hybrid version has two trim levels, the SL and the Platinum. It comes with an electric motor that is paired with a 2.5L I4 engine. Thanks to the location of the battery, the passenger and cargo space aren’t reduced. This version has an EPA rating of 29 MPG combined.
In 2019, the line saw some changes. Most of them are cosmetic, coming with new interior trims and exterior colors. In 2020, some safety features were added to the lineup. The S and the SL came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360. This comes with automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning.
2021 saw the Safety Shield 360 now standard across the line, making it one of the safest vehicles on the road. The SV also saw the Special Edition package offered this year. This came with 20-inch dark charcoal wheels, leatherette seats, heated front seats, and a dual-panel panoramic moonroof.
Fourth Generation Murano (2025-Present)
While it may be harder to find a used 2025 model, we think it’s worth going over. This generation now features ventilated and massaging front seats, dual 12.3-inch instrument clusters and infotainment displays, wireless phone connectivity, and a heads-up display.
This generation also dropped the 3.5L engine in favor of the 2.0L turbocharged engine. This engine has an EPA rating of 23 combined MPG.
Third Generation RAV4 (2006-2012)
When this generation hit the roads, it was slightly longer than the variants overseas. Thanks to this, the RAV4 had an optional third row, allowing you to seat two more passengers. If you’re looking for one from this generation, it comes in either FWD or 4WD.
For your engine options, this generation came with two to choose from. There's the 2.4L I4 or the 3.5L V6. The V6, being the more powerful engine, had 270 horsepower. The 2.4L engine could produce 166 horsepower, but that wasn't enough, as it was dropped for 2009. To replace this slot, the 2.5L was introduced. This produced 178 horsepower, giving slightly more power.
The RAV4 EV was launched in 2012, and for 3 years, it sold 2,600 units. This model had an EPA rating of 76 combined MPGe. While the overall range isn’t huge, sitting at 103 miles. This will be good for those who live in a busy city.
Fourth Generation RAV4 (2013-2018)
When this generation hit the roads, it came with a rear liftgate, as opposed to the side-opening door from the ones prior. The V6 was also dropped, leaving only I4 options to pick from.
This generation's hybrid system came with a 2.5L Atkinson engine paired with an electric motor. These came in both FWD and 4WD configurations. If you find yourself wanting a 4WD, it comes with a second motor that offers better traction and allows the RAV4 to tow 1,750 pounds.
While the hybrid was being made, so was the EV. This generation's EV came with a 154 horsepower engine that is powered by a 41.8 kWh battery pack. This offered the same EPA ratings as before, while only 2,500 were made.
Fifth Generation RAV4 (2019-Present)
This generation hit the streets in early 2019, while the hybrid models had to wait a few months, hitting the roads in mid-2019. The gas version came in five trims these being the LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, and Limited trims. The Hybrid saw one less trim, as the Adventure trim was dropped from the lineup.
If you find yourself wanting something a bit more off-road focused, then the Adventure and Limited trims are for you. These come with Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD and have multi-terrain select. This lets you maximize traction on sand, mud, rock, and dirt.
No matter the trim you get, you can find a 7-inch touch screen as the standard option. You will also be treated to Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. The standard engine option is the 2.5L engine that has an EPA rating of 30 MPG combined.
In 2020, the TRD was introduced. This was even more off-road capable than the Adventure and Limited trims. In 2021, the XLE Premium Hybrid was also added to the lineup. In 2022, the SE Hybrid was added.
Being that the lineup was getting a bit crowded, thanks to there being 10+ trims, Toyota thought it was time to retire some trims, and in 2024, the Adventure and TRD trims were discontinued.
Is a Used Nissan Murano Worth It?
No matter what you want, the options are endless. Come on down to an Alan Jay location today for more information of one of these amazing SUVs!