2019 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 2018 Nissan Murano

Size Comparison

Although both the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2018 Nissan Murano are 5-seater compact SUVs, the Santa Fe diesel variant does offer an ''occasional use'' third-row of seating to accommodate two extra passengers, preferably pint-sized children, not adults. This was likely designed to satisfy the demands of those Santa Fe Sport fans, who appreciated the flexibility (however cramped) provided by those two additional seats.

Actual dimensions show the 2019 Santa Fe and 2018 Murano are matched in height, with the Murano larger everywhere else. Official specifications show the Santa Fe measuring 188 inches L x 74 inches W x 66-67 inches H with the Murano at 192 inches L x 75 inches W x 67 inches H. While the Murano is longer and an inch wider, the real-time results for drivers and passengers doesn't seem to make much of a difference, compared to the new Santa Fe.

Cargo
Despite the Murano's larger size, passenger volume is only 108.1 cubic feet compared to the Santa Fe's 110.7 cubic feet. When it comes to passenger comfort, the Santa Fe simply offers more space. That added space translates to a greater cargo capacity, with the Santa Fe starting at 35.9 cubic feet, able to reach a total 71.3 cubic feet, compared to the Murano's starting 31.1-32.1 cubic feet, which can only expand between 65-67 cubic feet.

All told, whether for passengers or gear, the 2019 Santa Fe just has that much more to offer than the 2018 Nissan Murano.

Interior Differences

Part of the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe's alluring makeover is reflected by its new interior, which finally features long-awaited updates and enhancements, resulting in a cabin that feels more car-like than traditionally associated with the rugged, no-frills reliability of most SUVs. Lauded by Hyundai as the brand's "most tech-advanced SUV ever," the Santa Fe features upgrades like a 7-inch touchscreen display audio, complete with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capabilities. The heads-up display keeps current information and consistently updated data in clear view of your natural eyesight, reducing the need to look away from the road for any reason.

Naturally, the 2018 Nissan Murano has its own share of interesting interior details, like easily adjustable ambient lighting to set whatever mood strikes your fancy, along with Zero Gravity seats, which are designed to mimic the "neutral posture" experienced in space, if you're into that sort of thing. Ultimately, the goal of these seats is to provide maximum comfort and decrease fatigue during long trips or traffic-laden commutes.

Rather than imitate boldly going where no man has gone before, it's likely most consumers will jump at the chance to just pilot Hyundai?s "most tech-advanced SUV" instead.

Performance

Consumerism is driven by choice and the automotive sector is proof of that. Hyundai certainly knows this and offers three engine options in the 2019 Santa Fe, including a 2.2-liter turbo diesel four-cylinder engine -- the first of its kind in the Santa Fe lineup -- able to produce 197 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with this engine, the Santa Fe is able to tackle some mid-grade towing tasks.

But, if towing isn't a concern or diesel just isn't your thing, check out the two additional engine options: a 2.0L 4-cylinder, generating 185 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, or level up to the 2.4L 4-cylinder, backed by 235 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Whatever your preference, expect standard operation on all Santa Fe models from Hyundai's 8-speed automatic transmission.

Switching over to the single engine option 2018 Nissan Murano, drivers should anticipate a 3.5L DOHC V6 engine, which returns 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. Featuring an available Xtronic CVT transmission, with available Intelligent All-Wheel or Front-Wheel Drive, complete with Nissan's Traction Control System (TCS), the Murano is able to tow a maximum of 1,500 pounds.

While the Murano's fuel economy is considered competitive for the class at 21 city and 28 highway mpg, the Hyundai's 2019 Santa Fe still comes out ahead at 22 city and 29 highway.

Pricing

Remarkably, despite being the new kid on the block sporting a fresh makeover, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe features far more competitive price points than the 2018 Nissan Murano, even at the highest trim level. Consider the following starting MSRPs per model option, published by both manufacturers:

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe

• SE 2.4: $25,500
• SEL 2.4: $27,600
• SEL Plus 2.4: $29,800
• Limited 2.4: $32,600
• Limited 2.0T: $34,200
• Ultimate 2.4: $35,450
• Ultimate 2.0: $37,100

2018 Nissan Murano

• S: $30,800
• SV: $34,100
• SL: $38,500
• Platinum: $42,230

Even opting for the best of the bunch saves you more than $5,000 when you shop Hyundai versus Nissan.

Which is Right for You?

Both the Murano and Santa Fe are popular vehicles in their own right and for good reasons. Given the chance, it's likely that most consumers would prefer to drive the latest and greatest of automotive innovation (minus space-travel ambitions). Since the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe outperforms the 2018 Nissan Murano when it comes to cargo capacity, engine options - including a diesel variant, fuel economy figures, and pricing, the new Santa Fe will likely be the better choice for more consumers when pitted against the 2018 Murano.

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