Nissan Teana or Murano: what is hidden behind the 6 letters in the name?

You are faced with a choice between two popular crossovers Nissan — Teana And Murano - and noticed that both names consist of exactly 6 letters. Coincidence? No, this is part of the Japanese manufacturer's brand strategy. But behind the same length of names hide fundamentally different cars: one is a comfortable sedan with premium ambitions, the other is a powerful crossover with off-road aspirations.

In this article we will look at why Teana And Murano are often confused (despite the different classes), let's compare them according to 10 key parameters - from fuel consumption to suspension reliability, and answer the question: which one is right for you. Spoiler alert: if you're looking for performance and off-road capability, the Murano wins; if the priority is comfort and efficiency, look towards Teana. But let's dig deeper.

Why Teana and Murano are compared: myths and reality

At first glance, the comparison Nissan Teana (business class sedan) and Nissan Murano (crossover) seems strange. But there are three reasons why buyers confuse them:

• 🔤 Same title length - 6 letters. This is a marketing ploy Nissan, creating an associative connection between models.
• 💰 Similar price range on the secondary market. Both cars, aged 5–7 years, cost from 1.2 to 2 million rubles.
• 🛠️ General technical solutions. Both models were equipped with engines VQ35DE (3.5 l) and CVTs Jatco, which gives rise to the myth of their “kinship”.

However, this is where the similarities end. Teana is a front-wheel drive sedan with an emphasis on comfort and acoustic insulation, and Murano — all-wheel drive crossover with increased ground clearance and adaptive suspension. Even their body panels are not interchangeable!

⚠️ Attention: If you are offered “universal” spare parts for Teana And Murano (for example, stabilizer struts or brake pads), this is a reason to doubt the competence of the seller. The suspension and braking system parts of these models are fundamentally different.

Technical characteristics: comparison table

To objectively assess the differences, let’s summarize the key parameters in a table. The data is given for the most popular modifications on the Russian market - Nissan Teana J32 (2013–2017) and Nissan Murano Z51 (2015–2020):

Parameter	Nissan Teana (3.5 V6)	Nissan Murano (3.5 V6)
Body type	Sedan	Crossover (5-door)
Drive	Front / Full (optional)	Full (permanent)
Engine	VQ35DE (249 hp, 336 Nm)	VQ35DE (249 hp, 336 Nm)
Transmission	CVT Jatco JF011E	CVT Jatco JF016E with manual mode
Fuel consumption (combined)	9.8 l/100 km	11.2 l/100 km
Clearance	150 mm	210 mm
Trunk volume	480 l	393 l (1100 l with seats folded)

Please note: despite the same engine, Murano consumes 1.4 liters more fuel due to all-wheel drive and a heavy frame. But his variator JF016E It is considered more reliable - it is designed for heavy loads.

Cross-country ability and handling: where Murano will give a head start

If you often travel outside the city or live in a region with bad roads, Murano is a clear winner. Here's why:

• 🚙 Ground clearance 210 mm versus 150 mm Teana. This allows you to overcome snow drifts and primers without the risk of damaging the protection.
• 🔄 All-Mode 4x4-i all-wheel drive system with center differential lock. B Teana all-wheel drive (if installed) is plug-in, less efficient.
• 🛡️ Crankcase and transmission protection. U Murano she's a regular Teana — an option (and then only in top trim levels).

However, on asphalt Teana behaves more predictably: lighter weight (1580 kg versus 1850 kg for Murano) and a stiffer suspension make it more manageable at high speeds. The crossover is prone to roll in corners and “yaw” during sharp maneuvers.

Comfort and interior: where Teana has no competition

Here Teana definitely takes the lead. The business class sedan was designed with an emphasis on acoustic comfort and ergonomics:

• 🔇 Noise level in the cabin — 52 dB at a speed of 100 km/h (at Murano - 58 dB). The difference is noticeable on the highway.
• 🛋️ Memory seats (in top versions) and active ventilation. B Murano Even in the maximum configuration there is no seat ventilation.
• 🎵 Bose audio system with 11 speakers (with Murano — 9 speakers, and then only as an option).

But there is a nuance: the back row in Teana less spacious due to body shape. If carrying three passengers in the back is important to you, Murano will provide more leg and shoulder room.

How to check sound insulation when purchasing?

Start the car, close the doors and listen at idle speed. B Teana the operation of the variator should not be heard (only a slight hum), in Murano let's say a quiet "whistle" of the all-wheel drive.

Reliability and typical problems: what breaks more often

Both models are built on proven platforms, but there are critical differences:

⚠️ Attention: CVTs Jatco in Teana And Murano require oil changes every 60,000 km, not 100,000 km, as the dealer claims. Skipping the regulations leads to overheating and wear of the belt. The cost of repairs is from 150,000 rubles.

Typical problems Teana J32:

• 🔋 Battery It sits down after 2–3 days of inactivity due to the “gluttonous” alarm system and media system.
• 🚪 Electric window drives fail due to moisture getting into the doors.
• 🔥 CVT overheating when towing or driving in traffic jams (solved by installing an additional radiator).

Typical problems Murano Z51:

• 🛞 Wheel bearings They crunch already at 80,000 km (replacement costs 20,000–25,000 rubles per pair).
• 🔧 Leaking transfer case seals — check the oil level in the transfer case every 30,000 km.
• 💡 Bulbs in headlights burn out due to poor ventilation (solved by installing LED modules).

Cost of ownership: which is cheaper to maintain?

At first glance, Teana should be cheaper to maintain - less weight, simpler design. But there are pitfalls:

Expense item	Teana	Murano
Maintenance cost (every 15,000 km)	8,000–12,000 rub.	10,000–15,000 rub.
Fuel consumption (year, 20,000 km)	~40,000 rub. (95 petrol)	~48,000 rub. (95 petrol)
Insurance (CASCO, Moscow)	50,000–70,000 rub.	60,000–90,000 rub.
Spare parts (average price)	10–15% cheaper	20–25% more expensive (due to all-wheel drive)

Conclusion: Teana it costs 15–20% less per year, but only on the condition that you do not operate it in aggressive mode. If you drive off-road or often tow a trailer, Murano may turn out to be more profitable due to the reliability of the transmission.

Who will suit what: checklist for selection

To make your final decision, answer 5 questions:

1. Where do you travel most often?
   • 🏙️ City + highway → Teana
   • 🌲 Country roads + off-road → Murano
2. How many passengers?
   • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Often carry 4–5 people → Murano
   • 👔 Maximum 3 people → Teana
3. What is your maintenance budget?
   • 💰 Up to 15,000 rub./month → Teana
   • 💵 From 20,000 rub./month → Murano

If the majority of answers point to Teana, but you lack clearance, consider the alternative - Nissan Maxima (also 6 letters!). This is a sedan with a ground clearance of 160 mm and a sportier character.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Teana and Murano

Is it possible to put on Teana all-wheel drive from Murano?

No, this is technically impossible. The models have different platforms: Teana built on the basis Nissan L33, and Murano - on Nissan D. Even if it physically fits, the electronics are not compatible.

Which engine is more reliable: VQ35DE or QR25DE (2.5 l in Teana)?

VQ35DE is considered a “millionaire” with proper maintenance, but requires high-quality oil (for example, 5W-40 from Mobil 1). QR25DE easier to repair and cheaper, but less dynamic. For a quiet ride, a 2.5-liter engine is enough.

Is it true that Murano doesn't like Russian winters?

This is a myth. Murano perfectly adapted to cold weather thanks to:

• 🔥 Heated steering wheel, seats and windshield as standard.
• ❄️ Automatic inclusion of all-wheel drive when slipping.
• 🔋 Powerful battery (70 Ah versus 60 Ah in Teana).

Problems arise only when the oil in the transfer case is not changed in a timely manner (it thickens in the cold).

Which model is easier to sell on the secondary market?

According to statistics Avito And Auto.ru for 2023, Teana sells on average 2–3 weeks faster than Murano. Reasons:

• 💰 Lower price (100,000–150,000 rubles cheaper than the same for the year Murano).
• 🚗 Greater demand among taxi drivers and family buyers.

However Murano in top trim levels (with leather interior and 360° camera) it loses value more slowly.