The 2018 Nissan Murano AWD with its 3.5L V6 gets 24 MPG combined, which isn’t record-setting. However, it reflects Nissan’s choice to prioritize smooth, confident power delivery over maximizing fuel efficiency. This vehicle focuses on comfort and ease of driving, and its fuel economy is a deliberate trade-off. Typical Murano buyers may be established professionals, empty-nesters, or small families who value style, a premium feel, and a relaxed driving experience. They want a crossover SUV that can handle everyday commutes and weekend getaways, and while better fuel economy would be nice, it’s not their highest priority.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Murano AWD at 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. These numbers accurately show how the V6 engine performs. The city rating is reasonable given the Murano’s weight and the inefficiencies of stop-and-go driving. The highway figure is achievable because of the Murano’s aerodynamic shape and Nissan’s Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which helps keep the engine in its most efficient range at cruising speeds. However, aggressive driving or significant elevation changes on highway trips will quickly lower your MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Nissan Murano AWD at $1,800. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s estimated combined fuel economy of 24 MPG, multiplied by the national average fuel price when calculated. Your actual fuel costs will change based on your driving habits, the roads you drive on, and the fluctuating price of gasoline in your area. Someone who drives short distances in the city will likely spend more, while someone who mostly drives on the highway might spend less.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy varies. Murano owners often average between 22 and 26 MPG in mixed driving. Getting the EPA’s 28 MPG highway figure requires careful driving: avoid sudden acceleration, maintain a steady speed, and minimize hard braking. The real-time fuel economy readout in the Murano’s instrument cluster can help you monitor your driving efficiency and adjust your habits. Tire pressure, ambient temperature, and the use of air conditioning also affect fuel consumption.

How it compares

In the mid-size SUV segment, the 2018 Murano’s fuel economy is mid-range. The Honda Passport, another V6-powered competitor, gets a similar 22 MPG combined, with similar city and highway numbers. The four-cylinder Toyota RAV4, especially the hybrid, performs better, reaching over 40 MPG combined. The non-hybrid RAV4 gets around 30 MPG combined. This comparison matters if you’re willing to trade some engine smoothness and power for better fuel efficiency. The Ford Edge, with its optional EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, is another option getting around 25 MPG combined. For those seeking the best fuel savings, the Nissan Rogue, a smaller and less powerful SUV from the same brand, gets significantly better MPG, see all Nissan fuel economy data to explore more options. A Mazda CX-5 would not be a good comparison, though, because its focus on driving enjoyment makes it a different kind of vehicle. Learn more about the MURANO MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Murano’s CVT. It is designed to keep the engine running in its most efficient range. Help it by avoiding sudden acceleration. Drive smoothly and watch traffic to reduce hard braking and rapid acceleration, which consume more fuel.

Regular maintenance is critical. Keep your tires properly inflated and your engine oil clean. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance and old or dirty engine oil reduces efficiency. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule to keep your Murano running well and prevent mechanical issues that waste fuel.

Reduce extra weight. Don’t carry extra items in your Murano. Extra weight increases fuel consumption, particularly in city driving. Remove clutter from the trunk and rear seats to lighten the load and improve your MPG.

Minimize idling. Idling wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready to go. This is important during cold weather since the engine consumes more fuel when idling to warm up.

Plan your trips well. Combine errands and choose routes that reduce stop-and-go traffic. Use navigation apps with real-time traffic updates to avoid congested areas and find the most fuel-efficient route to your destination. Planning can noticeably improve your fuel consumption.