As we look ahead to the 2025 model year, the landscape for midsize luxury SUVs is more competitive than ever. Two names consistently rise to the top for shoppers seeking a blend of style, comfort, and performance: the Acura RDX and the Nissan Murano. Both vehicles have carved out loyal followings, but they approach the premium segment from distinctly different angles. If you’re trying to decide where to invest your money, you’re likely weighing a very specific question: Acura RDX vs Nissan Murano: Which SUV Performs Better in 2025?
The answer isn’t as simple as picking one over the other. It boils down to your personal definition of “performance.” Are you seeking athletic driving dynamics and sharp handling, or is your priority a serene, cloud-like ride and unparalleled comfort for long journeys? The 2025 iterations of these SUVs double down on their core identities, making the choice clearer than ever. Let’s take a closer look at where each one shines.
Where the 2025 Acura RDX Excels
The Acura RDX has always positioned itself as the sportier option in its class, and the 2025 model continues this tradition with vigor. At the heart of its performance is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a robust 272 horsepower. Paired with a slick 10-speed automatic transmission, the RDX feels eager and responsive. The real magic, however, lies in its available Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. This isn’t just a system for bad weather; it actively vectorizes torque to the outside wheels in corners, making the surprisingly agile RDX feel planted and confident on a twisting road.
Inside, the RDX embraces its driver-focused mission. The cabin is modern and tech-forward, featuring Acura’s distinctive True Touchpad Interface. While there’s a learning curve, it creates a clean, button-free dashboard aesthetic. You’ll find supportive, well-bolstered seats that keep you in place during spirited drives, and the overall build quality feels solid and premium. For the driver who views their daily commute as a chance to enjoy the act of driving, the RDX is a compelling package.
The 2025 Nissan Murano’s Comfort-First Philosophy
Nissan takes a completely different approach with the Murano. Performance here is defined by smoothness and comfort. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine provides 260 horsepower, but it’s tuned for relaxed, refined power delivery rather than neck-snapping acceleration. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) prioritizes seamless power flow, eliminating shift shocks to create an exceptionally calm driving experience. This makes the Murano a fantastic long-distance cruiser, effortlessly eating up highway miles.
Step inside, and the Murano’s commitment to comfort becomes even more apparent. The “NASA-inspired” Zero Gravity seats are legendary for their support and have been a benchmark for comfort in the industry for years. Couple that with a spacious, airy cabin thanks to the large windows and available panoramic moonroof, and you have a recipe for ultimate relaxation. The infotainment system is straightforward and user-friendly, focusing on ease of use rather than flashy tech. If your priority is arriving at your destination feeling completely unstressed, the Murano makes a powerful case for itself.
Head-to-Head: Driving Dynamics and Daily Usability
When you pit them against each other on the road, the contrast is immediate. The Acura RDX is the athlete. Its steering is more communicative, the body roll is better controlled, and the turbocharged engine provides a strong punch when you need to pass or merge. It’s engaging and fun. The Nissan Murano is the luxury lounge. It glides over bumps and imperfections, isolating you from road harshness. The V6 engine is smooth and quiet, but it can feel less urgent when you demand quick acceleration.
For daily usability, both offer similar cargo space and passenger room, but the experience differs. The RDX feels like a cockpit, putting all controls within easy reach of the driver. The Murano feels like a living room, with plush seats and an open, inviting atmosphere for all passengers.
Acura RDX vs Nissan Murano: Which SUV Performs Better in 2025
So, which one performs better? The definitive answer hinges entirely on your needs. This isn’t a case of one being objectively better than the other; it’s about which vehicle’s performance philosophy aligns with your lifestyle.
Choose the 2025 Acura RDX if your definition of performance leans towards driving engagement. If you appreciate sharp handling, potent turbocharged power, and advanced all-wheel-drive technology that enhances cornering, the RDX is the undisputed winner. It’s for the driver who finds joy in the journey itself.
Choose the 2025 Nissan Murano if you prioritize ride comfort and passenger well-being. If your goal is a supremely smooth, quiet, and relaxing ride with some of the best seats in the business, the Murano performs its intended duty flawlessly. It’s the ideal choice for long commutes, road trips, and anyone who values comfort above all else.
Making Your Final Decision
The best advice is to get behind the wheel of both. Pay attention to how each SUV makes you feel. Take the RDX on a route with some curves and see if its athletic character speaks to you. Then, take the Murano on a longer stretch of road, perhaps one with some uneven pavement, and appreciate its cloud-like isolation. Notice which interior environment you prefer after spending 20 minutes inside.
Both the 2025 Acura RDX and the Nissan Murano are excellent vehicles that perform brilliantly at their respective missions. By understanding their core strengths, you can confidently choose the SUV that best performs for you.
In the end, the 2025 Acura RDX wins for driver-focused performance and handling prowess, while the 2025 Nissan Murano takes the crown for ride comfort and passenger-centric luxury. Your personal preference on what makes a great driving experience will be the ultimate guide in this compelling matchup.