Murano I (Z50) vs XC90 I: which is better?
Nissan Murano I (Z50) (2002–2007) vs Volvo XC90 I (2002–2014): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Nissan Murano I (Z50)
Volvo XC90 ISpecifications
| Nissan Murano I (Z50) | Volvo XC90 I | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2002–2007 | 2002–2014 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.5 V6 | 2.5 Turbo (T5) |
| Power, up to | 234 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque, up to | 318 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Gearbox | CVT | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 770 mm | 4 800 mm |
| Width | 1 880 mm | 1 898 mm |
| Height | 1 705 mm | 1 784 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 825 mm | 2 857 mm |
| Fuel tank | 82 L | 80 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 68 375 ₸ | ≈ 29 450 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Nissan Murano I (Z50)
Pros
- 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
- Gearbox Jatco CVT: belt and bearing wear
Engine (Nissan VQ (V6)): oil consumption on some engines; catalytic converter breakdown and cylinder scoring; valve cover leaks.
Gearbox (Jatco CVT): belt and bearing wear; sensitive to overheating.
Volvo XC90 I
Pros
- Gearbox Aisin automatic: generally reliable
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Large tank: 80 L
- 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.
Which one to choose
- Murano I (Z50) — if you care more about: power, fuel tank.
- XC90 I — if you care more about: torque, wheelbase, kz tax 2026.
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: Murano I (Z50) or XC90 I?
Murano I (Z50): up to 234 hp, XC90 I: up to 210 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Murano I (Z50) — about 68 375 ₸, XC90 I — about 29 450 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.