The 2023 Nissan Murano AWD, equipped with the 3.5L V6, gets 22 MPG combined. This isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards but shows the vehicle’s main focus: a comfortable, stylish, and reliable mid-size crossover. Murano buyers typically don’t seek maximum fuel efficiency first. They want the smooth power of the V6, a comfortable ride, distinctive styling, and available all-wheel drive for security in bad weather. Fuel efficiency is a factor, but it’s less important than these other attributes.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway for the 2023 Nissan Murano AWD. The city figure shows the Murano’s weight and stop-and-go driving, where the V6 works harder to move the crossover. However, the highway number is more respectable and shows the Murano’s aerodynamic shape and well-tuned automatic transmission.

This split performance shows the Murano’s suitability for both daily commutes and longer road trips. The Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) with simulated gear ratios optimizes engine speed for both performance and economy.

Some enthusiasts dislike the CVT’s feel, but it helps the Murano’s efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Nissan Murano AWD at exactly $2,000. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful way to compare it to other vehicles in the same class. Remember that your fuel costs will vary depending on your driving, the type of driving you do, and the price of gas in your area.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a starting point, but real-world fuel economy often changes based on driving habits and conditions. Murano drivers who often accelerate quickly or idle in traffic are likely to see numbers below the EPA estimates. However, those who drive smoothly and consistently and minimize idling may get numbers closer to, or even above, the EPA’s projections. Consistent tire pressure and regular maintenance also help keep fuel economy optimal.

How it compares

The 2023 Nissan Murano’s fuel economy is in the middle of its class. A Honda Passport, also with a V6 and AWD, gets a similar 21 MPG combined and 24 MPG highway. The Toyota Venza, a hybrid, gets much better fuel economy, up to 40 MPG combined. The Ford Edge, with its EcoBoost engines, has a range of fuel economy numbers depending on the engine and drivetrain. A comparison of the Murano to something like an Edge ST, with its twin-turbo V6 and standard AWD, shows a clearer difference, with the Edge ST getting around 21 combined MPG.

These comparisons show the trade-offs in choosing a Murano. Buyers accept a V6 engine’s fuel economy for its smooth power and how it responds. You can view all Nissan fuel economy data to compare it to other models in the lineup, or consider looking at MURANO MPG across all years to see if there are models that meet your needs better.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Murano’s V6 has plenty of power, but rapid acceleration wastes fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration will improve your fuel economy, especially in city driving.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and lowers fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the pressure on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Minimize idling. Idling burns fuel without moving the car. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engine start/stop systems do this automatically, but the Murano doesn’t have this.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps keep a constant speed, which can improve fuel economy on long highway drives. Avoid excessive speed. Air resistance increases greatly at higher speeds, lowering fuel efficiency. Aim for a constant speed within the legal limit.

Reduce weight. Extra weight lowers fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area and cabin to reduce the load on the engine. Even small weight reductions can add up.