Nissan Pathfinder vs Nissan Murano: Key Differences, Specs, and Features

October 15, 2026 · 6 min read

Both the Nissan Pathfinder and the Nissan Murano are midsize SUVs sold at Peruzzi Nissan in Fairless Hills, PA but they are built for different buyers. The Pathfinder is a three-row SUV with seating for up to eight and serious towing capability. The Murano is a two-row SUV that seats five, with a turbocharged engine, a more premium interior focus, and a lower towing rating. Understanding the difference between the Nissan Pathfinder and Nissan Murano starts with knowing which job each one is actually designed to do.

What Is the Difference Between the Nissan Pathfinder and Nissan Murano?

The most fundamental difference is seating and row count. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder used cars or new ones offers three rows and seats up to eight passengers. The 2027 Nissan Murano new cars has two rows and seats five. If your family regularly needs more than five seats, the comparison effectively ends there: the Pathfinder is the right vehicle.

Beyond seating, the two diverge significantly in towing capacity, engine output, and available drivetrain options.

How Do the Pathfinder and Murano Compare on Specs?

	2026 Nissan Pathfinder	2027 Nissan Murano
Seating	Up to 8 (7 with captain's chairs)	5
Rows	3	2
Engine	3.5L V6	VC-Turbo
Horsepower	284 hp (295 hp Rock Creek)	241 hp
Torque	259 lb-ft (270 lb-ft Rock Creek)	260 lb-ft
Transmission	9-speed automatic	9-speed automatic
Max Towing	6,000 lbs (when properly equipped)	1,500 lbs
Highway MPG	Up to 27 MPG	Up to 27 MPG
AWD	Available Intelligent 4x4 (7 terrain modes)	Standard Intelligent AWD
Standard Drive	Front-wheel drive	AWD

Which Has More Towing Capacity: the Pathfinder or the Murano?

This is where the gap is largest. The 2027 Nissan Murano is rated for up to 1,500 lbs of towing capacity. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder ranges from 3,500 lbs on certain configurations up to 6,000 lbs on properly equipped 4x4 trims with the tow package. Not every Pathfinder trim reaches the 6,000 lb maximum, towing capacity varies by drivetrain and configuration. For families who tow a boat, camper, or utility trailer, the Pathfinder is the stronger choice.

Which Has More Seating: the Pathfinder or the Murano?

The Pathfinder seats up to eight in its standard configuration with a three-row bench, or seven with available captain's chairs in the second row. The Murano seats five across two rows. If you need to carry more than five passengers regularly, the Pathfinder is the only option between these two vehicles.

How Does the Pathfinder's Off-Road Capability Compare to the Murano's?

The available Intelligent 4x4 system on the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder includes direct coupling and seven driver-selectable terrain modes: Mud/Rut, Sand, Snow, Tow, Sport, Eco, and Auto. These modes are specific to 4x4-equipped trims and do not apply to FWD configurations. The Rock Creek trim adds further capability with 295 hp, 270 lb-ft of torque, an off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and a heavy-duty tubular roof rack as standard equipment on that trim.

The Murano offers standard Intelligent AWD with Snow Mode. It is designed for improved all-weather traction rather than off-road use. For families driving primarily on paved roads in all weather, the Murano's AWD system is capable. For light trails, towing over rough terrain, or maximizing off-pavement confidence, the Pathfinder's 4x4 system is the stronger setup.

Which Nissan Should You Buy: the Pathfinder or the Murano?

The right answer depends on what your household actually needs:

Consider the Nissan Pathfinder if:

You need seating for up to eight passengers, or seven with available second-row captain’s chairs.
You tow a trailer, boat, or camper regularly
You want available 4x4 with terrain modes for off-pavement driving

Consider the Nissan Murano if:

You need seating for five
You prioritize a turbocharged engine and a more premium cabin experience
Towing is light or not a regular need
Highway fuel economy in the same range as the Pathfinder matters and a smaller footprint is preferred

Both vehicles come standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, and high beam assist. ProPILOT Assist is standard on the 2027 Murano and available on the 2026 Pathfinder, depending on trim.

Shop the Nissan Pathfinder and Murano at Peruzzi Nissan

If you are searching for a Nissan Pathfinder or Nissan Murano near me, Peruzzi Nissan dealership at 165 Lincoln Highway, Fairless Hills, PA 19030 can help you explore your options. Our team can walk you through current inventory, available trims, and pricing on both vehicles so you can compare them side by side before you decide.

FAQs

What is the difference between the Nissan Pathfinder and Nissan Murano?

The Pathfinder is a three-row SUV that seats up to eight and is rated to tow up to 6,000 lbs when properly equipped. The Murano is a two-row SUV that seats five and is rated to tow up to 1,500 lbs. The Pathfinder runs a 3.5L V6 producing 284 hp; the Murano uses a VC-Turbo producing 241 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both offer available all-wheel drive and return up to 27 MPG on the highway, although fuel economy varies by Pathfinder configuration.

Does the Nissan Murano have a third row?

No. The 2027 Nissan Murano is a five-passenger, two-row SUV. If you’re looking for a Nissan three-row vehicle, the Pathfinder is a good option and its three-row seating option can hold up to eight passengers.

Which is bigger: the Nissan Pathfinder or the Nissan Murano?

The Pathfinder is the larger vehicle. It measures 197.7 inches in length compared to the Murano’s 192.9 inches. The Murano stands at 67.9 inches tall and 78 inches wide. The Pathfinder also offers three rows of seating, up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space, and a towing rating of up to 6,000 lbs when properly equipped. The Murano is a two-row midsize SUV with a towing rating of up to 1,500 lbs.

Is the Nissan Pathfinder or Murano better for towing?

The Pathfinder is significantly better for towing. It is rated for up to 6,000 lbs of maximum towing capacity when properly equipped. The Murano is rated for up to 1,500 lbs. If towing a trailer, boat, or camper is a regular use case, the Pathfinder is the only practical choice between these two vehicles.

Which Nissan SUV is right for a large family: the Pathfinder or the Murano?

For families that regularly carry more than five passengers, the Pathfinder is the better fit. It seats up to eight in its standard configuration and up to seven with available second-row captain's chairs. The Murano seats five. Both offer available all-wheel drive and standard Nissan Safety Shield 360 across the lineup.

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Sep 22, 2026 in Nissan Information

2027 Nissan Sentra and Kicks: What's New and Why Buyers Should Take a Second Look

Two of Nissan's most accessible vehicles just got better. The 2027 Nissan Sentra and the 2027 Nissan Kicks are on sale and both arrive with updates that address real buyer feedback. If you wrote off either of these in a previous model year, here's what changed and why a second look makes sense. What Is New for the 2027 Nissan Sentra? The 2027 Nissan Sentra arrives with a new exterior and interior design, a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, and available dual 12.3-inch displays. Recalibrated Xtronic CVT The most meaningful mechanical change for 2027 is a revised CVT tune. Nissan engineers recalibrated the Xtronic transmission software to deliver a smoother, more linear throttle response, reducing the delayed ratio shifts and engine drone that CVTs in this segment are known for during hard acceleration. The 2027 Sentra is powered by a 149-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) Midnight Edition Package The 2027 Sentra lineup includes an SR Midnight Edition with 18-inch gloss-black aluminum-alloy wheels. It's a cosmetic package, but it gives the Sentra SR a distinctly sportier look that the standard trim doesn't offer. What stays the same: The powertrain is unchanged. Every 2027 Sentra runs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque, paired with the CVT and front-wheel drive. EPA-estimated fuel economy holds at up to 30 MPG city and 38 MPG highway on S, SV, and SL trims; the SR is rated at 29 MPG city / 36 MPG highway. Nissan Safety Shield® 360 includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning and High Beam Assist. What Is New for the 2027 Nissan Kicks? The Kicks was fully redesigned for 2025, sharper styling, a more upright stance, updated tech, and available all-wheel drive. For 2027, the headline addition is a new trim that meaningfully expands what the Kicks can do. Kicks Rock Creek AWD Nissan has added the Rock Creek trim to the Kicks lineup for 2027, joining the Rock Creek family that already includes versions of the Rogue and Pathfinder. The 2027 Nissan Kicks Rock Creek is built off the SV trim and adds: Standard Intelligent AWD Exclusive Off-Road drive mode Hill Descent Control Unique 17-inch wheels with rugged design Black exterior trim and a distinctive grille Roof rack with crossbars rated to carry up to 165 pounds Amber daytime running lights The Rock Creek positions the Kicks as something it wasn't before: a subcompact SUV with genuine light off-road capability, not just cosmetic trail styling. For buyers who want AWD capability without stepping up to a larger vehicle, this is a new option worth taking seriously. What stays the same: The powertrain carries over, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque paired with a CVT. EPA-estimated fuel economy for FWD models is 28 MPG city / 35 MPG highway. The 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard across the lineup. ProPILOT Assist is available on the SR grade. Feature 2027 Nissan Sentra 2027 Nissan Kicks Rock Creek Engine 2.0L 4-cylinder 2.0L 4-cylinder Horsepower 149 hp 141 hp Drivetrain FWD Standard AWD MPG (City/Hwy) 30 / 38 (S/SV/SL); 29 / 36 (SR) 28 / 35 (FWD est.) Key 2027 Update Revised CVT + Midnight Edition New Rock Creek trim Sentra or Kicks: Which One Is Right for You? The answer depends on what you are prioritizing: The Sentra may suit buyers prioritizing sedan efficiency and a lower seating position, while the Kicks may appeal to buyers wanting crossover cargo flexibility and available AWD. The Kicks makes more sense if you want SUV practicality, higher seating position, more cargo flexibility, and available AWD, at a subcompact price. The new Rock Creek trim adds real capability for buyers who want occasional off-road confidence or simply want AWD for Pennsylvania winters without spending Rogue money. Both are available now at Peruzzi Nissan in Fairless Hills. FAQs What is new for the 2027 Nissan Sentra? The 2027 Sentra adds a recalibrated Xtronic CVT for smoother acceleration, a new $650 Midnight Edition package on the SR trim, and an updated Qi2-standard wireless charging pad on higher trims. What is the 2027 Nissan Kicks Rock Creek? The Rock Creek is a new trim added to the 2027 Kicks lineup. It comes standard with Intelligent AWD, an exclusive Off-Road drive mode, Hill Descent Control, a roof rack rated to 165 pounds, and rugged exterior styling. Is the 2027 Nissan Kicks still the most affordable AWD SUV in America? Yes. Nissan officially confirmed in the 2027 Kicks press release that it remains the most affordable AWD SUV in America. What is the fuel economy of the 2027 Nissan Sentra? The 2027 Sentra is EPA-estimated at up to 30 MPG city and 38 MPG highway. Where can I buy the 2027 Nissan Sentra or Kicks near Fairless Hills, PA? Both are available now at Peruzzi Nissan, 165 Lincoln Hwy, Fairless Hills, PA 19030.

Aug 10, 2026 in Nissan Information

Sedan or Small SUV? Nissan Sentra vs. Kicks for Bucks County Daily Driving

The decision between a sedan or small SUV hinges on your real-world requirements for daily driving. For a driver of Bucks County, the 2026 Nissan Sentra and 2026 Nissan Kicks provide two very different takes on getting you from Point A to B while running errands or setting out on adventures. The Sentra has the conventional sedan comfort along with admirable MPG and planted handling. With the Kicks comes added ride height, convenient, versatile space, along with the available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. What Makes the 2026 Nissan Sentra a Good Daily Driver? 2026 Nissan Sentra overview: The 2026 Nissan Sentra is a compact that’s ideal for day-to-day duties, with a 2.0 Liter 4-cylinder that puts out 149 HP and 146 lb-ft of torque, whilst offering fuel efficiency up to 30 City/38 Hwy MPG depending on configuration. The Sentra is well-suited to drivers with a routine that requires: Daily commuting Highway driving Local errands Regular Bucks County trips Easy parking and maneuverability For the traditional sedan shopper who doesn’t need the versatility of an SUV’s cargo space, there is reason to consider the Sentra. Why Consider the 2026 Nissan Kicks? By contrast, the 2026 Nissan Kicks represents a completely different ethos for the segment in question, using a 2.0-litre 24-valve four-cylinder engine pushing 141 hp and 140 lb-ft of torque that is capable of outputting to the road via available Intelligent AWD on the SR AWD grade. You might find the Kicks to be more compelling than the Murano if you wish to: A higher seating position Flexible cargo space Easy access to the cabin A compact SUV footprint Available Intelligent AWD Fold the rear seat in the Kicks, and you get up to 60 cubic feet of storage, ample space for everything from grocery bags, luggage, and sports gear to larger purchases. Sentra vs. Kicks: Which Offers More Cargo Flexibility? Here’s perhaps one of the largest differences between the two: 2023 Nissan Kicks Cargo Space and Access: The Sentra has the typical sedan trunk space, which the typical driver would have to use to haul grocery bags, luggage, or work equipment. The Kicks may be more practical since it has access to more space with a wide trunk opening or by folding the standard 60/40-split rear seats to fit even more bulk and/or oddly shaped things. If you tend to transport the kind of gear, grocery bags, or lug that might struggle to fit in this space, a Kicks is likely the better bet for you. Does AWD Make the Kicks More Versatile? It can. It just takes a specific trim – specifically the SR AWD trim and the 2026 Kicks features Intelligent AWD and provides you with drive modes such as Sport, Standard, Eco, and Snow. All of that can be rather fascinating if you’re considering a small SUV that has the capability of being all-wheel drive; however, you don’t intend to progress into an SUV that’s any bigger in dimensions. Learn more. Check out Nissan Sentra vs. Kicks: Quick Comparison Feature 2026 Nissan Sentra 2026 Nissan Kicks Body Style Compact sedan Small SUV Seating 5 5 Engine 2.0L 4-cylinder 2.0L 4-cylinder Horsepower 149 hp 141 hp Max Cargo Space Sedan trunk Up to 60 cu. ft. Drivetrain FWD FWD / available AWD Best For Commuting and sedan driving Versatility and everyday utility Which Nissan Should You Choose? Select the Sentra if you're looking for a conventional sedan, spend most of your time shuttling yourself back and forth, and don't anticipate using an SUV's cargo-hauling capability. Pick the Kicks to gain a higher driving position with adaptable cargo flexibility, plus you may also add on the handy Intelligent AWD You could probably also add something that “isn’t to Say that Either Type of vehicle is inherently better”, for instance that it depends on the driver in regards to; Miles covered in a Day, Size of the Load’s carried, Height of the Driver (comfort in driving), as well as the general type of road you are likely to be encountering in the vehicle. Find Your Nissan at Peruzzi Nissan Don't know if you prefer a sedan or a small SUV? Let's compare the all-new 2026 Nissan Sentra and 2026 Nissan Kicks at Peruzzi Nissan right here in Fairless Hills, where we serve customers all around Bucks County. Shop our new Nissan inventory to explore our newest models and find the Nissan that is best for your lifestyle.

Aug 07, 2026 in Nissan Information

AWD Isn’t Just for Snow: When Nissan Intelligent AWD Can Actually Help

AWD, Snow, All-Wheel Drive-and How It Can Work For You. When it comes to AWD, images of slick, icy conditions usually spring to mind. But as good as AWD is for winter driving, that’s just the beginning. When road conditions get trickier than a light snowfall, and you get into Intelligent All-Wheel Drive capable models of the Nissan family, you’ll find a system that can offer better traction on damp, uneven, loose, or rough road surfaces. It even works intuitively by actively redirecting engine power to the wheels where it’s needed, helping to provide a confident feel-whether it's on a Tuesday morning commute or your Saturday adventure trip. Whether a drizzle from the sky or you navigate the unpaved, the advantage of AWD can go beyond snow season, making tricky conditions better managed with added traction. 1. What Is Nissan Intelligent AWD? Split between the front and rear wheels if more traction is required. Instead of simply going from dry road to full snowstorm mode, the system adjusts based on the drive conditions, all the while helping you conserve fuel if there’s already plenty of traction to begin with. This shows that AWD systems come into play when you’re probably encountering some of the following conditions on the road during the calendar year – not just in a snowstorm Can AWD Help in Rain? Totally. Wet asphalt reduces your tires’ ability to find traction. This becomes significantly worse during heavy rain or if you're starting from a standstill. If you have it, Intelligent AWD can help send power where it can be of most help to get through a slippery situation. That could be applicable in your morning commute during a rainstorm, coming around a slippery intersection during a rainstorm, or driving through a road with standing water. You can still hydroplane with an AWD car. Good tires, reasonable speeds, and increased following distances will always be needed. What About Gravel and Dirt Roads? You don't have to be a weekend warrior driving on dirt trails to experience less than perfect road surfaces. Gravel roads, dirt parking lots, muddy parking spaces, and off-road paths all present lower tire grip than pavement on a dry day. An available AWD system can help the vehicle hang onto the pavement when what it's sitting on suddenly changes. For instance, the upcoming 2026.5 Nissan Rogue will feature available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive with modes for different conditions and environments, including an available Snow Mode and Off-Road Mode. Which Nissan Models Offer Intelligent AWD? All-wheel drive isn’t standard for all Nissan models, trim levels, or drivetrain options; thus, you shouldn’t assume that any vehicle comes standard with AWD on every trim level. The 2026.5 Nissan Rogue is available with Intelligent AWD and drive modes that can be switched between for various driving conditions. This is where the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder has its own philosophy as well, particularly concerning the optional Intelligent 4x4 system. Nissan claims that its system incorporates “direct-coupling technology to increase traction in slip conditions,” including snow. The Nissan Kicks also features an Intelligent AWD (with configuration dependent). Remember to look at the specific trim and driveline before you decide what car is best for you to make sure that you know which features you will actually get and which type of AWD drive you can choose from. When Is Nissan Intelligent AWD Worth Considering? AWD may be a good choice for you if you frequently encounter: Heavy rain Snow and icy conditions Gravel or dirt roads Steep driveways Uneven surfaces Frequent changes in road conditions If you mainly drive in dry, well-maintained conditions, you don’t necessarily need a AWD system The best choice depends largely on how and where you drive. Is AWD Worth It for Your Nissan? AWD is much more than just a feature to buy for a snowy day a few times a year. Nissan Intelligent AWD can intelligently assist with grip in wet weather, rough terrain, changing surfaces, or loss of traction. When choosing a Nissan SUV, consider the terrain and road surfaces you normally drive on, the weather conditions you encounter most frequently, and how you like to spend your weekends – that information is usually a better guide for you whether to select AWD than the week ahead. Find the Right Nissan at Peruzzi Nissan Is a vehicle with the versatility to keep up with your commute a priority? Get familiar with the innovative 2026.5 Nissan Rogue, the exceptional 2026 Nissan Pathfinder, and several more models here at Peruzzi Nissan, located in Fairless Hills, PA. Visit Peruzzi Nissan to browse the full new Nissan inventory to find exactly what suits your life behind the wheel.