2025 Nissan Murano vs. Mazda CX‑70: Why the Murano Is the Smarter SUV Choice

June 23rd, 2025 by

Navigating the midsize SUV market near Minneapolis-St. Paul? Two popular contenders are going head-to-head: the 2025 Nissan Murano and the Mazda CX‑70. Both SUVs offer upscale features, modern tech, and sleek styling—but when it comes to real-world value, comfort, and accessibility, the Murano continues to stand out. At Walser Nissan Coon Rapids, we’re breaking down how the Murano delivers more for your money, especially for drivers in Minnesota.

Performance Without the Complexity

The 2025 Nissan Murano comes equipped with a refined 2.0L VC‑Turbo® engine offering 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth 9-speed automatic transmission. Available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and up to 27 MPG on the highway make it ideal for Minnesota’s changing seasons—without the complexity of hybrid systems. While the Mazda CX‑70 offers multiple powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid, it requires moving far up the trim ladder (and price range) to access them—adding complexity and cost some drivers may not want or need.

Luxury Features That Don’t Break the Bank

One of the Murano’s biggest advantages is how early luxury features are offered. Starting at just $41,470 for AWD-equipped SV trims, the Murano includes standout amenities like:

  • Dual 12.3″ HD displays with Google built-in

  • Heated front seats with Zero Gravity comfort design

  • ProPILOT Assist 1.1 with lane-centering and adaptive cruise control

  • Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™

  • Optional panoramic moonroof and 64-color ambient lighting

Meanwhile, the CX‑70’s top comfort features—including massaging seats, surround-view cameras, and premium interior lighting—don’t appear until the $50K+ range. That’s a major advantage for budget-conscious buyers looking for upscale experiences.

Smarter Safety Comes Standard

Safety matters in Minnesota driving, and the Murano doesn’t hold back. It includes Nissan Safety Shield® 360 across all trims, plus advanced tech like a 360° Around View Monitor and Traffic Sign Recognition by the SL level. The CX‑70 includes Mazda’s i-Activsense suite, but several advanced features—like 360° monitoring—require higher trims and added cost.

Everyday Practicality for Twin Cities Life

Whether you’re commuting from Coon Rapids, heading up north for the weekend, or loading up after a Target run, the Murano offers solid cargo space (up to 63.5 cu ft), a low loading floor, and refined road manners. It’s designed for comfort, not stiffness. The CX‑70’s sportier tuning and RWD-based setup might appeal to driving enthusiasts, but for daily use, Murano’s ride is smoother and noticeably quieter over Minnesota’s uneven roads.

The Final Word: Murano Delivers More for Less

When comparing pricing, Murano trims offer standout value:

Trim Drivetrain Starting MSRP
SV FWD FWD $40,470
SV AWD AWD $41,470
SL AWD AWD $46,560
Platinum AWD AWD $49,600

Comparable CX‑70 models with similar features push well into the $50K–$57K range. Simply put, the 2025 Nissan Murano brings premium tech, comfort, and all-weather confidence without forcing you to overspend.

Shop the 2025 Nissan Murano at Walser Nissan Coon Rapids

Ready to experience the perfect blend of luxury, value, and all-season capability? Explore the new 2025 Nissan Murano at Walser Nissan Coon Rapids—your trusted Nissan dealer near Minneapolis. With our One Person, One Price philosophy and transparent, upfront pricing, we make car shopping simple and stress-free.

Posted in Model Comparisons, Murano