NX I (AZ10) vs Murano III (Z52): which is better?
Lexus NX I (AZ10) (2014–2021) vs Nissan Murano III (Z52) (2014–present): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Lexus NX I (AZ10)
Nissan Murano III (Z52)Specifications
| Lexus NX I (AZ10) | Nissan Murano III (Z52) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2014–2021 | 2014–present |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.0 Turbo (NX200t) | 3.5 V6 |
| Power, up to | 238 hp | 249 hp |
| Torque, up to | 350 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | CVT |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 630 mm | 4 898 mm |
| Width | 1 845 mm | 1 915 mm |
| Height | 1 645 mm | 1 691 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 660 mm | 2 825 mm |
| Fuel tank | 60 L | 72 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 16 475 ₸ | ≈ 68 375 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Lexus NX I (AZ10)
Pros
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: generally reliable
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: valve body wear at high mileage
Gearbox (Aisin automatic): generally reliable; at high mileage — valve body wear.
Nissan Murano III (Z52)
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 249 hp
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Large tank: 72 L
- Currently in production — can be bought new
Cons
- Engine Nissan VQ (V6): oil consumption on some engines
- Gearbox Jatco JF016E/JF017E (CVT): bearing whine
Engine (Nissan VQ (V6)): oil consumption on some engines; catalytic converter breakdown and cylinder scoring; valve cover leaks.
Gearbox (Jatco JF016E/JF017E (CVT)): bearing drone; belt and pulley wear; overheating.
Which one to choose
- NX I (AZ10) — if you care more about: torque, kz tax 2026.
- Murano III (Z52) — if you care more about: power, wheelbase, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: NX I (AZ10) or Murano III (Z52)?
NX I (AZ10): up to 238 hp, Murano III (Z52): up to 249 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: NX I (AZ10) — about 16 475 ₸, Murano III (Z52) — about 68 375 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.