2026 Nissan Murano vs. Toyota Highlander Comparison: Design, Powertrain, & Tech 

For years, the Nissan Murano has held a unique position in the market: it’s the SUV for drivers who want a luxury driving feel without the luxury price tag. For 2026, Nissan has doubled down on that premium, design-forward approach.

As the 2026 Nissan Murano prepares to arrive at Quality Nissan of Greenwood, many South Carolina drivers are comparing it to the Toyota Highlander. While the Highlander is a staple of the segment, the 2026 Murano has undergone a ground-up transformation that shifts the conversation from “utility” to “experience.”

Here is how these two heavyweights compare.

1. Design: Modern Sophistication vs. Traditional Utility

The 2026 Murano is a visual departure from everything else in its class. Taking cues from the all-electric Ariya, it features a sleek, “monolithic” silhouette with ultra-thin LED headlights integrated into a wide Crystal Grille. It doesn’t look like a standard commuter SUV; it looks like a high-end concept car.

The Toyota Highlander follows a much more traditional, boxy design language. While it is undeniably practical for fitting a third row, it lacks the curb appeal and design-forward presence of the Murano. If you want an SUV that stands out in the parking lot, the Murano is the surgical choice.

2. Powertrain: The Engineering Edge

Nissan has officially retired the aging V6 in favor of a sophisticated 2.0L VC-Turbo (Variable Compression) engine. This advanced engine automatically adjusts its operation to balance power and efficiency, optimizing for raw power when you’re merging onto the highway and switching to maximum efficiency for your daily commute.

• 2026 Murano: 241 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, mated to a new 9-speed automatic transmission. This replaces the CVT, providing a more connected, responsive feel that enthusiasts will appreciate.
• Highlander: Utilizes a standard 2.4L Turbo 4-cylinder. While it offers slightly more torque, it lacks the high-tech variable-compression technology that makes the Nissan powertrain so versatile.

3. Interior: A “Lounge-on-Wheels”

The 2026 Murano interior has moved significantly upmarket. On the Platinum trim, you’re greeted with quilted semi-aniline leather and—for the first time—massaging front seats. The dashboard is dominated by dual 12.3-inch “Monolith” displays with Google built in, providing a seamless tech experience.

The Highlander is built for durability. Its cabin is spacious and functional, but it uses more “family-proof” hard plastics and a busier layout. The Murano, by contrast, focuses on a “spa-like” environment. It drops the third row to prioritize massive legroom and superior seat comfort for five adults, making it the better choice for those who value cabin quality over passenger count.

4. Tech: Hands-Off Capability

Both vehicles offer robust safety suites, but Nissan leaps forward with ProPILOT Assist 2.1. This system allows for hands-off highway driving on compatible roads. While the Highlander’s Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ is excellent for collision avoidance, it doesn’t offer the same level of sophisticated, hands-free highway cruising as the new Murano.

Which One Is Right for You?

• The Toyota Highlander is for you if: You absolutely need a third row for eight passengers daily.
• The 2026 Nissan Murano is for you if: You prioritize visual appeal, ride quality, and a luxury-tier cabin. It’s the perfect vehicle for professionals, empty nesters, or small families who want an elevated driving experience.

Experience the 2026 Murano at Quality Nissan of Greenwood

The 2026 Nissan Murano is redefining the midsize crossover. From its 21-inch wheels to its “Invisible Hood View” camera system, every detail is engineered to make driving less of a chore and more of an event.

Want to be the first to test drive the 2026 Murano in Greenwood? Contact Quality Nissan of Greenwood today. We’ll keep you informed on arrival dates and purchase opportunities as they become available.

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