23 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards, but it’s also not a deal-breaker for the shoppers considering the 2021 Nissan Murano FWD with its 3.5L V6. This isn’t a vehicle bought for its frugality; it’s chosen for its distinctive styling, comfortable ride, and the smooth power delivery of that V6. Murano buyers prioritize those attributes, and they’re willing to accept average fuel economy in return.

City and highway performance

The Murano’s EPA ratings break down to 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. That city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go driving, where the V6 engine works harder and the Murano’s weight becomes a factor. The highway number is more palatable, and it’s where the Murano excels. At cruising speeds, the engine settles into a relaxed state, and the continuously variable transmission (CVT) helps to optimize fuel efficiency. The CVT, while not always loved by enthusiasts, is programmed to mimic gear changes in this application, minimizing the droning sound often associated with this type of transmission. This makes highway driving a more pleasant experience and contributes to that respectable 28 MPG rating.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Nissan Murano FWD is $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and, of course, the ever-fluctuating price of gasoline. If you primarily drive in the city, expect to spend more than $1,900. Conversely, if you do a lot of highway driving, you might spend less. This estimate provides a reasonable benchmark for budgeting purposes.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful starting point, it’s essential to understand that real-world fuel economy can differ. Many factors influence your MPG, including driving style, weather conditions, and even tire pressure. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will significantly reduce fuel economy. Maintaining proper tire inflation and keeping up with scheduled maintenance will help the Murano achieve its optimal efficiency. Online forums and fuel-tracking apps often show owners reporting numbers close to, or slightly below, the EPA estimates, suggesting that the Murano’s ratings are generally accurate for typical driving conditions.

How it compares

The Murano’s fuel economy puts it in the middle of the pack within its competitive landscape. For example, the Honda Passport, another midsize SUV with a V6 engine, achieves a similar 20 MPG city and 25 MPG combined. The Toyota Venza, however, with its standard hybrid powertrain, boasts a significantly better 40 MPG combined. But the Venza prioritizes fuel economy above all else. Compared to the base configurations of the Ford Edge and Chevy Blazer, the Murano’s numbers are practically the same. These SUVs offer similar power from their base engines but can’t match the hybrid’s efficiency. The difference in fuel costs might not be the only thing for buyers in this segment to consider, but it’s a factor to consider alongside styling, features, and driving experience. Anyone considering a purchase should be able to find MURANO MPG across all years here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The key to maximizing fuel economy in the 2021 Nissan Murano is to drive smoothly and consistently. Avoid sudden bursts of acceleration or hard braking. Gentle inputs on the accelerator and brake pedal will help the CVT maintain optimal efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.

Regular maintenance plays a crucial role in fuel efficiency. Make sure to keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy.

Minimize idling time. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes fuel unnecessarily. This is especially pertinent in city driving.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long trips. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly areas, as the transmission may downshift frequently, negating any potential fuel savings. Consider all all Nissan fuel economy data when making your purchase decision.