Murano II (Z51) vs Highlander II (XU40): which is better?
Nissan Murano II (Z51) (2007–2016) vs Toyota Highlander II (XU40) (2007–2013): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Nissan Murano II (Z51)
Toyota Highlander II (XU40)Specifications
| Nissan Murano II (Z51) | Toyota Highlander II (XU40) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2007–2016 | 2007–2013 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.5 V6 | 3.5 V6 |
| Power, up to | 249 hp | 273 hp |
| Torque, up to | 326 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Gearbox | CVT | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 834 mm | 4 785 mm |
| Width | 1 885 mm | 1 910 mm |
| Height | 1 720 mm | 1 760 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 825 mm | 2 790 mm |
| Fuel tank | 82 L | 72 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 68 375 ₸ | ≈ 68 375 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
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.
Toyota Highlander II (XU40)
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 273 hp
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Japanese Aisin automatic
- Large tank: 72 L
Cons
- Engine Toyota 2GR-FE/FKS (3.5 V6): rubber VVT-i oil line can burst on early engines (before ~2010)
- Aisin gearbox (Toyota/Lexus 4–8-speed automatic): jolts when shifting at high mileage
Engine (Toyota 2GR-FE/FKS (3.5 V6)): rupture of the rubber VVT-i oil line on early engines (before ~2010); water pump leak; valve cover gasket leaks.
Gearbox (Aisin (Toyota/Lexus 4–8-speed automatic)): shift shocks at high mileage; solenoid wear from old oil.
Which one to choose
- Murano II (Z51) — if you care more about: wheelbase, fuel tank.
- Highlander II (XU40) — if you care more about: power, torque.
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 II (Z51) or Highlander II (XU40)?
Murano II (Z51): up to 249 hp, Highlander II (XU40): up to 273 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Murano II (Z51) — about 68 375 ₸, Highlander II (XU40) — about 68 375 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.