The Nissan Murano vs. the Lexus RX 350: Which Midsize SUV Offers the Best Value?

If you’re shopping for a stylish, comfortable, and feature-rich midsize SUV near Chicago, the 2025 Nissan Murano and the Lexus RX 350 likely top your list. Both models offer premium interiors, smooth rides, and impressive safety features—but how do they really compare when it comes to value, technology, and everyday usability? At Countryside Nissan, we’re taking a closer look at how the Murano stacks up against the RX 350 to help you make an informed decision.

Sleek Design with Everyday Practicality

Both the Murano and RX 350 deliver standout design, but the Nissan Murano brings bold styling without the premium price tag. The Murano’s floating roofline, V-Motion grille, and available 20-inch alloy wheels give it a commanding presence on the road. Inside, you’ll find a luxurious cabin with available leather-appointed seats, ambient lighting, and soft-touch materials that rival luxury competitors—without the luxury-level MSRP.

In contrast, the Lexus RX 350 certainly exudes elegance, but its design upgrades and premium finishes often come at a much steeper cost. For shoppers who want upscale aesthetics and daily functionality without overpaying, the Murano offers a smart balance of refinement and value.

Comfort and Interior Space

The Murano shines when it comes to comfort for both driver and passengers. With best-in-class front legroom, wide Zero Gravity seats, and generous second-row space, it’s designed for long drives and daily commutes alike. The rear seats also recline and fold easily for flexible cargo solutions.

The Lexus RX 350 offers solid passenger comfort as well, but the rear seat and cargo space are slightly tighter. For families or road trippers who prioritize stretch-out space and rear-seat versatility, the Murano delivers more flexibility at a more accessible price point.

Technology and Connectivity

Whether you’re heading into the city or taking a weekend getaway, modern connectivity matters. The 2025 Nissan Murano features an intuitive 8-inch NissanConnect® touchscreen with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ as standard, along with available navigation and an 11-speaker Bose® premium sound system.

While the RX 350 has a sharp touchscreen interface and available Mark Levinson® audio, most of its premium tech is only found on higher trims or added packages, which can quickly drive up the total price. The Murano, by contrast, includes many of these in-demand features standard or at a much more affordable trim level.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Both SUVs are powered by strong V6 engines, with the Murano’s 3.5L V6 delivering 260 horsepower and smooth acceleration through its Xtronic CVT®. It’s engineered for comfort and stability, perfect for commuting along I-55 or cruising through the Chicago suburbs.

The RX 350 comes with a 275-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which delivers solid power but slightly less smoothness in everyday driving. The Murano’s V6 may not be turbocharged, but it offers consistent performance and impressive fuel economy for its class—especially when equipped with available Intelligent AWD.

Safety Comes Standard

Both the Murano and RX 350 score high in safety, but Nissan’s Safety Shield® 360 comes standard on every 2025 Murano trim, offering automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, and more. While the RX 350 has similar features through Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, many drivers appreciate that Nissan includes advanced driver assistance as standard across the board.

Why Choose the Nissan Murano at Countryside Nissan?

When comparing the Nissan Murano vs. Lexus RX 350, both deliver on comfort, performance, and design—but the Murano offers premium features, advanced safety, and an upscale experience at a far more attainable price point. Whether you’re a daily commuter from La Grange, a weekend adventurer in Hinsdale, or a growing family in Western Springs, the Murano checks all the right boxes without compromise.

Visit Countryside Nissan today to test drive the new Nissan Murano and explore current offers. Our team is here to help you find the perfect SUV that fits your lifestyle—and your budget.