CX-7 I (ER) vs Murano II (Z51): which is better?
Mazda CX-7 I (ER) (2006–2012) vs Nissan Murano II (Z51) (2007–2016): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Mazda CX-7 I (ER)
Nissan Murano II (Z51)Specifications
| Mazda CX-7 I (ER) | Nissan Murano II (Z51) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2006–2012 | 2007–2016 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.3 Turbo | 3.5 V6 |
| Power, up to | 238 hp | 249 hp |
| Torque, up to | 350 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | CVT |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 680 mm | 4 834 mm |
| Width | 1 870 mm | 1 885 mm |
| Height | 1 645 mm | 1 720 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 750 mm | 2 825 mm |
| Fuel tank | 69 L | 82 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 28 050 ₸ | ≈ 68 375 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Mazda CX-7 I (ER)
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 II (Z51)
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 249 hp
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Large fuel tank: 82 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine Nissan VQ (V6): oil consumption on some engines
- CVT: service history matters
Engine (Nissan VQ (V6)): oil consumption on some engines; catalytic converter breakdown and cylinder scoring; valve cover leaks.
Which one to choose
- CX-7 I (ER) — if you care more about: torque, kz tax 2026.
- Murano II (Z51) — 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: CX-7 I (ER) or Murano II (Z51)?
CX-7 I (ER): up to 238 hp, Murano II (Z51): up to 249 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: CX-7 I (ER) — about 28 050 ₸, Murano II (Z51) — about 68 375 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.