2025 Nissan Murano vs. Mazda CX‑70: Midsize SUV Comparison

June 23rd, 2025 by

If you’re shopping for a premium midsize SUV in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area, two standout options are the 2025 Nissan Murano and the Mazda CX‑70. Both deliver upscale design, advanced technology, and confident performance—but only one offers a smoother ride, smarter value, and more accessible luxury across its lineup. At Walser Nissan Wayzata, we’re breaking down the key differences to help you choose the SUV that best fits your lifestyle in Minnesota.

Powertrain & Efficiency: Refined vs. Complicated

The 2025 Nissan Murano features a 2.0L VC‑Turbo® I4 engine with 241 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and available Intelligent AWD. With up to 27 MPG highway and 8.3″ of ground clearance, the Murano is engineered for confident, fuel-efficient performance across Minnesota’s seasons.

The Mazda CX‑70 offers more complex powertrain options—ranging from a turbocharged I6 mild hybrid to a plug-in hybrid model. While these systems provide more horsepower (up to 340 hp), they come at a higher price point and with added mechanical complexity, which may not appeal to everyday drivers prioritizing simplicity and reliability.

Interior Comfort & Technology: Murano Delivers Luxury Sooner

Inside the 2025 Murano, you’ll find upscale touches designed for long-distance comfort and daily ease. Available features include:

  • Ventilated and massaging Zero Gravity front seats

  • Dual 12.3″ HD displays with Google built-in

  • Panoramic moonroof

  • 64-color ambient lighting

  • Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™

  • Heated steering wheel and wireless charging

These premium amenities become available as early as the SL trim, which starts under $47K. In contrast, many of the CX‑70’s top features—such as 360° cameras, upgraded lighting, and digital gauges—are locked behind $50K+ trims, making luxury much less accessible for budget-conscious buyers.

Safety & Driver Assistance: More Standard Protection with Murano

Safety is a top priority for Minnesota families, and the Murano comes well-equipped. Nissan’s Safety Shield® 360 suite is standard, along with available ProPILOT Assist 1.1, adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, traffic sign recognition, and a 360° Around View Monitor—features included starting at the SV AWD and SL trims.

The CX‑70 includes Mazda’s i-Activsense system, but drivers must upgrade to higher trims to access comparable features like surround-view monitoring or advanced drive-assist functions. For drivers who value safety at a lower price point, the Murano clearly comes out ahead.

Cargo Space & Practicality: Both Strong, Murano More User-Friendly

The Murano provides 32.9 cu ft of cargo space with seats up and up to 63.5 cu ft folded, paired with a low loading floor for easy access. While the CX‑70 offers slightly more space (up to 75.3 cu ft depending on configuration), its RWD platform can result in a taller load height and sportier—often firmer—ride characteristics.

Trim Levels & Pricing: Murano Wins on Value

2025 Nissan Murano Drivetrain Starting MSRP
SV FWD FWD $40,470
SV AWD AWD $41,470
SL AWD AWD $46,560
Platinum AWD AWD $49,600
2025 Mazda CX‑70 Powertrain Starting MSRP
3.3 Turbo Preferred Turbo I6 hybrid $40,445
3.3 Turbo Premium Turbo I6 hybrid $45,900
3.3 Turbo Premium+ Turbo I6 hybrid $48,900
3.3 Turbo S Premium High-output I6 $52,450
PHEV Premium+ Plug-in hybrid $57,450

With its well-equipped SV and SL trims, the Murano offers more premium features per dollar, standard AWD above SV, and a lower entry point for tech and comfort features Mazda reserves for its top-tier CX‑70 models.

Why Choose the 2025 Nissan Murano from Walser Nissan Wayzata?

From a smoother ride and accessible safety tech to luxurious features that come standard sooner, the 2025 Murano is built for Minnesotans who want refined comfort, cold-weather confidence, and outstanding value—all without stretching into the $50K range.

At Walser Nissan Wayzata, we make your SUV upgrade simple and transparent with One Person, One Price and expert guidance every step of the way.