The 2023 Nissan Murano’s naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 manages 23 MPG combined, which won’t break any fuel economy records, but it’s likely a number the Murano’s target buyer has considered. This isn’t a vehicle for maximizing MPG on long trips. Instead, it’s a comfortable, stylish two-row SUV designed for suburban driving. The Murano favors a smooth ride and a quiet cabin over ultimate fuel efficiency, which its owners likely expect.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Murano achieves 20 MPG in the city, reflecting the engine’s fuel consumption in stop-and-go conditions. The continuously variable transmission (CVT), which Nissan calls AV-S7, tries to lessen this by quickly selecting the best gear, but it can’t completely eliminate the inefficiencies of city driving. The Murano performs better on the highway, reaching 28 MPG. The V6 delivers strong power for easy cruising and passing. Long highway drives allow the CVT to settle into its most efficient ratio, lowering engine RPMs and improving fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the 2023 Nissan Murano’s annual fuel cost at $1,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year using national average fuel prices. This is an estimate, so actual fuel costs may change depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and fuel type. Premium fuel isn’t required, but aggressive driving will increase costs beyond $1,900.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Murano drivers can usually see numbers close to the EPA estimates if they drive reasonably. Quick acceleration, frequent hard braking, and long idling will hurt fuel economy. Regularly maintaining your Murano, including checking tire pressure and changing oil, is also crucial for efficient fuel consumption. Checking MURANO MPG across all years can offer insight into owner-reported numbers versus EPA ratings.

How it compares

The Murano’s fuel economy places it within a segment of two-row midsize SUVs, and it’s important to see how it compares. The Honda Passport, another V6-powered SUV, gets 20 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, slightly less than the Murano on the highway. The Hyundai Santa Fe, with its turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, gets a similar 22 MPG combined. The Toyota Venza’s hybrid drivetrain gets much better fuel economy at 40 MPG combined, but it provides a different driving experience. Hybrid options are beneficial for buyers who greatly value fuel efficiency. However, those who like the Murano’s style and V6 power may find the fuel economy difference acceptable. Exploring all Nissan fuel economy data can help understand the Murano’s efficiency in the brand’s lineup.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Use the Murano’s cruise control on long highway trips. Keeping a steady speed reduces acceleration and deceleration, which can help fuel economy. The Murano’s CVT optimizes fuel efficiency at consistent speeds, so take advantage of it.

Avoid accelerating quickly and braking hard. The Murano’s V6 has plenty of power, but using it carefully will save fuel. Accelerating gently and braking gradually improves fuel economy and creates a smoother ride.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. See the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the Murano’s recommended tire pressure, and check your tires regularly, especially when the temperature changes.

Minimize idling the engine. Idling for too long wastes fuel when the car isn’t moving. If you expect to stop for more than a minute, turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready.

Reduce extra weight inside the vehicle. Carrying too much cargo makes the engine work harder and consume more fuel. Take out any unnecessary items to improve fuel economy, especially if you don’t plan to use them.