Why the 2027 Nissan Murano Is Neptune Beach’s Ultimate Comfort Crossover Choice

September 9th, 2026 by

A side-three-quarter hero shot of a modern 2027 Nissan Murano two-row crossover SUV finished in a sophisticated metallic blue, parked along a sun-drenched coastal suburban street in coastal North Florida. Sunlight filters through scattered palm trees and live oaks, casting warm afternoon shadows acr The 2027 Nissan Murano wins overall for drivers seeking a refined, sanctuary-like two-row crossover that prioritizes everyday comfort, sophisticated design, and practical utility. With about 33 cu ft of dedicated cargo space behind the rear seats compared to about 22 cu ft in the Telluride, superior front legroom of 44.3 in, and an efficient EPA-estimated 21 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined MPG across all AWD trims, the Murano delivers a premium daily driving experience without requiring three-row bulk.

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Which SUV Is the Best Overall for Neptune Beach Families: 2027 Nissan Murano or 2027 Kia Telluride?

The 2027 Nissan Murano is the best overall choice for buyers who want a sophisticated, comfort-first crossover, offering about 33 cu ft of cargo volume behind the second row and an efficient 23 combined MPG with standard all-wheel drive. While the 2027 Kia Telluride caters to larger carpools with its available three-row seating, the newly unveiled fourth-generation Murano focuses on delivering an upscale two-row sanctuary. It combines artful exterior styling with near-luxury interior appointments, making it the ideal personal luxury vehicle for modern households.

Pioneering the modern two-row crossover concept more than two decades ago, the Nissan Murano has established a distinct reputation for blending artful design with serene road manners. As J.D. Power highlighted, its adventurous design makes it stand out as more of an artistic style piece than a purpose-built utility machine, offering on-road driving sophistication and near luxury-level features. That reputation is backed by solid industry accolades, including being named J.D. Power’s 2026 Most Dependable Midsize SUV, earning U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Cars for the Money, and being recognized on Newsweek’s 2025 America’s Most Anticipated New Vehicles list.

Living along the flat, sandy coast in Neptune Beach means daily driving often revolves around outdoor recreation, spontaneous trips to the shoreline, and commuting into downtown centers. The 2027 Nissan Murano caters to this lifestyle by offering a maneuverable 111.2-inch wheelbase and an 8.3-inch unladen ground clearance that confidently clears sandy access parking. Inside, front-seat occupants enjoy 44.3 in of legroom and 39.4 in of headroom, giving drivers a noticeably more open feel behind the wheel than the Telluride’s 41.4 in of front legroom.

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How 2027 Nissan Murano and Kia Telluride Pricing and Trims Comparison

The 2027 Nissan Murano lineup offers superior standard value across its Dark Armor AWD, Platinum AWD, and SL AWD trims by packaging premium features like dual 12.3-inch displays and synthetic leather appointments without forcing buyers into expensive option packages. The 2027 Kia Telluride distributes its equipment across EX AWD, EX FWD, and EX FWD HEV trims, but achieving an equivalent level of acoustic isolation and luxury detail requires stepping up to higher tier trim classifications.

Nissan engineered the 2027 Murano lineup with a highly streamlined trim structure that focuses on delivering high-end equipment as standard hardware. The Murano SL AWD establishes an impressive baseline with a 4,290 lbs curb weight and a 1,310 lbs payload capacity, featuring 20-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather seat upholstery, and electric 2-way driver lumbar support. Moving to the Murano Dark Armor AWD increases payload to 1,248 lbs on a 4,352 lbs curb weight chassis while adding a bold dark trim aesthetic, a 10-speaker Bose audio system, a panoramic roof with an electric sunshade, and a heated steering wheel. The top-tier Platinum AWD trim builds on a 4,386 lbs curb weight with semi-aniline leather appointments, front-seat active massage functions, climate-controlled ventilated front seating, a windshield head-up display, and hands-free power liftgate access.

The 2027 Kia Telluride lineup includes the EX FWD (4,467 lbs curb weight, 1,596 lbs payload), the EX AWD (4,605 lbs curb weight, 1,656 lbs payload), and the hybrid EX FWD HEV (4,661 lbs curb weight, 1,622 lbs payload). While the Telluride EX trims offer 5,000 lbs of towing capacity on gas models and 4,500 lbs on the hybrid, they carry higher curb weights that impact fuel economy during everyday city driving.

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Cargo and Passenger Space Comparison for Active Families

The 2027 Nissan Murano provides about 33 cu ft of usable cargo space behind its rear seats, significantly outpacking the 2027 Kia Telluride’s about 22 cu ft rear cargo volume when all seats are in place. For active households that do not require a third row every day, the Murano’s dedicated two-row layout provides vastly superior rear storage depth without sacrificing cabin serenity or passenger stretch-out room.

Interior dimension measurements highlight how thoughtfully Nissan allocated space for five occupants. Front passengers in the Murano enjoy 44.3 in of legroom, 39.4 in of headroom, 56.9 in of hip room, and 60.8 in of shoulder room. In the second row, passengers receive 36.3 in of legroom, 37.9 in of headroom, 56.9 in of hip room, and 58.5 in of shoulder room. Folding the 60/40 split rear bench flat expands the Murano’s total cargo volume to about 63.5 cu ft, creating a wide, flat load floor with an accessible 31.6-inch floor height, 39.7-inch cargo length, and 55.9-inch cargo width.

By comparison, the three-row Kia Telluride divides its cabin volume across seven or eight seating positions. While it offers 43 in of second-row legroom, its front legroom measures only 41.4 in. More importantly, with its third row in the upright position, the Telluride’s cargo capacity drops to about 22 cu ft on EX AWD and EX FWD trims, and about 21 cu ft on the EX FWD HEV model. Folded flat, the Telluride offers about 89 cu ft of maximum space, but daily commuters lose over 10 cu ft of dedicated trunk space when carrying a full crew of five passengers.

For residents in World Golf Village, the Murano’s about 33 cu ft trunk easily holds multiple full-size golf bags and walking carts side-by-side without needing to fold down seats or squeeze gear around third-row headrests. When outfitting your crossover for active weekends, our genuine parts center supplies custom cargo nets, carpeted load mats, and roof rail accessories. Plus, every customer who purchases through Nissan Of Orange Park gains access to our exclusive VIP customer benefits program, which includes complimentary appraisals and routine care conveniences.

Dimensions & Capacity

Capacity and dimensions by trim

Specification 2027 Nissan Murano 2027 Kia Telluride
Seating 5 8
Cargo 32.9 cu ft 22.3 cu ft
Towing 1,500 lbs 5,000 lbs
Curb weight 4,352 lbs 4,605 lbs
Payload 1,248 lbs 1,656 lbs

Performance and Driving Experience Tailored to Coastal Roads

The 2027 Nissan Murano achieves an EPA-estimated 21 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined MPG across its entire AWD lineup, outperforming the gas-powered 2027 Kia Telluride EX AWD model’s 18 city / 24 hwy / 20 combined MPG. By pairing an advanced 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with an Xtronic automatic transmission, the Murano delivers quick throttle response, refined highway cruising, and lower annual fuel costs.

Under the hood, Nissan’s 2.0L KR20DDET turbocharged engine produces 241 hp at 5,600 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. This power is routed through an Intuitive All-Wheel Drive system that continuously monitors surface traction to seamlessly transfer power between front and rear wheels. Weighing between 4,290 lbs and 4,386 lbs, the Murano feels agile and planted, supported by an independent front strut suspension with a coil spring and stabilizer bar, paired with an independent multi-link rear setup. With a 457.3-inch (38.1 ft) turning circle, 17.4-degree approach angle, and 23.8-degree departure angle, navigating tight parking structures or maneuvering coastal roads is effortless.

The 2027 Kia Telluride EX AWD and EX FWD models utilize a larger 2.5L 4-cylinder G4KIII engine generating 274 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque via an 8-speed automatic. While the Telluride EX FWD reaches 20 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined MPG and the EX FWD HEV hybrid achieves 34 city / 36 hwy / 35 combined MPG, the standard Telluride gas AWD trim consumes significantly more fuel in city driving with an 18 MPG rating. Furthermore, the Telluride’s 470.5-inch turning circle makes tight U-turns more cumbersome than in the Murano.

As Kelley Blue Book noted, the Nissan Murano is a safe and comfortable midsize SUV that prioritizes comfort over off-road ruggedness, delivering a quiet, premium ride. Keeping your crossover performing at its peak is easy at Nissan Of Orange Park, where we offer flexible service financing options for unexpected repairs or routine maintenance.

Engine & Performance

Powertrain specs by trim

Specification 2027 Nissan Murano 2027 Kia Telluride
Engine 2L 2.5L
Horsepower 241 hp 274 hp
Torque 260 lb-ft 311 lb-ft
Transmission Xtronic automatic 8-speed
Drivetrain All-wheel drive All-wheel drive

Smart Technology That Keeps Drivers Connected and Safe

The 2027 Nissan Murano comes standard across all trims with an advanced digital cockpit featuring dual 12.3-inch displays for the reconfigurable instrument cluster and central infotainment touch screen. The Kia Telluride EX features a 12.3-inch central screen but pairs it with a smaller 4.2-inch instrument cluster display on standard trims.

Inside the Murano, drivers interact with an intuitive interface powered by NissanConnect Services, which includes a 36-month complimentary subscription for telematics, remote lock/unlock, vehicle start, speed alerts, geofencing, and over-the-air OS updates. Standard technology includes:

  • Dual 12.3-inch reconfigurable TFT digital displays
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto integration
  • Alexa virtual assistant voice control
  • Nissan Intelligent Key with keyless entry, push-button start, and walk-away locking
  • Wireless charging pad and four USB ports (2 front, 2 rear) plus a 12V cargo outlet
  • 3-month trial of Wi-Fi hotspot capability (3 GB/month)
  • 36-month satellite navigation data feed with live traffic updates
  • Bose 10-speaker premium audio system with subwoofer (Dark Armor AWD and Platinum AWD)

The Murano Platinum AWD elevates tech convenience even further by adding a windshield head-up display, a 3D enhanced Around View Monitor 360-degree camera system, and ProPILOT Assist 2.1, which enables Level 2 hands-free highway driving capability under single-lane conditions.

Safety Features Designed for School Runs and Weekend Beach Outings

The 2027 Nissan Murano prioritizes occupant protection with 8 standard airbags, Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Intelligent Lane Intervention, and Blind Spot Intervention that activates at speeds as low as 3 mph. The 2027 Kia Telluride includes 10 airbags and Forward Collision Avoidance, but its forward collision system requires a minimum speed of 6 mph to activate.

Safety technology on the 2027 Nissan Murano includes a robust suite of active driver-assist systems designed for congested traffic and suburban commutes:

  • Automatic Emergency Braking: Operates at low and high speeds with acoustic and visual warnings, automatic low-speed front and rear braking, and millimetre-wave radar sensing.
  • Intelligent Lane Intervention: Provides active steering assist and braking inputs if an unintentional lane departure is detected.
  • Blind Spot Intervention: Features active collision avoidance and steering wheel vibration alerts to prevent unsafe lane changes.
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Uses radar sensors and cameras to detect approaching cross-traffic while reversing out of driveways or parking spaces.
  • Around View Monitor: Features front, rear, and side cameras with parking guidance displays to make tight maneuvers stress-free.
  • ProPILOT Assist: Combines adaptive cruise control with full stop-and-go functionality and active lane control for relaxed highway driving.

On Murano Platinum AWD models, the safety suite adds a front-seat center airbag (bringing total airbag count to 9), traffic sign recognition, emergency driver intervention systems, and active lane changing assist.

Warranty, Maintenance, and Local Service Options for 2027 Nissan Murano and Kia Telluride Owners

The 2027 Nissan Murano comes protected by a comprehensive factory warranty that includes a 36-month / 36,000-mile whole vehicle limited warranty, a 60-month / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and 60-month corrosion coverage. Kia offers a 60-month / 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and 120-month / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty on the Telluride.

Every new Nissan Murano owner receives 36 months or 36,000 miles of 24/7 manufacturer-backed roadside assistance. If you ever experience a flat tire or battery issue on the road, help is just a phone call away through Nissan Roadside Assistance: 1-800-225-2476. This program guarantees that service is performed by factory-trained technicians using genuine OEM parts to maintain your vehicle’s long-term reliability and safety.

At Nissan Of Orange Park, our factory-certified service center is dedicated to keeping your crossover operating like new. Our team handles everything from routine synthetic oil changes and tire rotations to complete brake inspections and system diagnostics. You can easily book your next visit online using our convenient online service scheduler.

Frequently Asked Questions from Buyers Comparing the 2027 Nissan Murano and Kia Telluride

Q: Is the 2027 Nissan Murano better suited for daily cargo than the Kia Telluride?

Yes. The 2027 Nissan Murano offers about 33 cu ft of dedicated cargo space behind its second row when all seats are in place, compared to just about 22 cu ft in the Kia Telluride EX AWD. For drivers who routinely haul beach gear, groceries, or luggage without needing a third row, the Murano provides significantly more usable everyday storage depth.

Q: Which SUV achieves better fuel economy on all-wheel drive models?

The 2027 Nissan Murano AWD achieves an EPA-estimated 21 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined MPG across all trims (Dark Armor AWD, Platinum AWD, and SL AWD). The gas-powered 2027 Kia Telluride EX AWD rates lower at 18 city / 24 hwy / 20 combined MPG, meaning the Murano will cost less to fuel during daily city driving.

Q: Does the 2027 Nissan Murano offer hands-free driving technology?

Yes. The 2027 Nissan Murano Platinum AWD trim offers available ProPILOT Assist 2.1, which allows for hands-free Level 2 single-lane highway driving under clear conditions. It integrates mapping data, stop-and-go adaptive cruise control, and active lane control for a stress-free commute.

Q: How do the front-seat comfort dimensions compare between these two crossovers?

The 2027 Nissan Murano provides superior front legroom measuring 44.3 in, compared to 41.4 in in the Kia Telluride. Additionally, Murano Platinum AWD models feature climate-controlled ventilated front seats with active massage functions for premier long-distance driving comfort.

Q: Where can I test drive the 2027 Nissan Murano in Jacksonville?

You can experience the 2027 Nissan Murano firsthand at Nissan Of Orange Park. Visit our Jacksonville showroom located at 7447 Blanding Blvd. You can also reach our sales team directly by giving us a quick call at (904) 467-9687 or explore our latest new Nissan Murano inventory online today.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy and range by trim

Specification 2027 Nissan Murano 2027 Kia Telluride
MPG 21 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined 18 city / 24 hwy / 20 combined

Which SUV Should You Drive Home? The Final Verdict on the 2027 Nissan Murano

The 2027 Nissan Murano stands out as the clear winner for buyers seeking an elegant, two-row crossover that balances quiet luxury, modern technology, and efficient performance. With about 33 cu ft of rear cargo space, an impressive 44.3 in of front legroom, standard dual 12.3-inch displays, and an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined with Intuitive All-Wheel Drive, the Murano delivers a superior daily driving environment compared to the heavier, three-row Kia Telluride.

Experience the sanctuary-like cabin and artful design of the 2027 Nissan Murano for yourself. Visit Nissan Of Orange Park at 7447 Blanding Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32244 today, or browse our inventory online to schedule your test drive.


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Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

Posted in Model Comparisons