2020 Nissan Murano vs 2021 BMW X7

The 2020 Nissan Murano, while updated in 2019 with a refreshed grille, redesigned LED headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs, retained a design that was attractive but not particularly modern. As newer models like the Nissan Pathfinder and Armada debuted with updated looks, the Murano's styling began to feel dated. Available in S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, the Murano offered more standard features in midrange and higher trims, such as heated mirrors and adaptive cruise control in the SV, and traffic-sign recognition in the SL. The Platinum trim featured a new leather-wrapped steering wheel and a new Super Black paint option. The Murano's wheels ranged from 18-inch to 20-inch aluminum-alloy designs, all with all-season tires.

Inside, the Murano's Platinum grade offered premium materials, though the interior design felt stuck in 2014, especially the center stack and console. Despite this, the Murano maintained an upscale feel compared to the 2021 Nissan Rogue. The controls were intuitive and well-placed, contributing to a user-friendly experience. The Murano's interior, while not cutting-edge, provided a comfortable and practical environment for its occupants.

The 2021 BMW X7 stood out in metropolitan Los Angeles, offering greater interior quality than a Cadillac Escalade, more prestige than an Infiniti QX80 or Lincoln Navigator, and more technological sophistication than a Lexus LX 570. It also had a significant visual presence compared to a Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. Available in three versions, the X7 xDrive40i, M50i, and Alpina BX7, the X7 offered a range of features and price points. The xDrive40i test vehicle featured 22-inch aluminum wheels, premium leather, and a trailer hitch, with a total cost of $91,745.

The X7's styling was appealing, with traditional BMW cues and a massive grille that suited its large SUV stature. Inside, the X7 shared design elements with the X5, offering high-tech features, high-quality materials, and mostly intuitive controls. The interior was luxurious, with heated and ventilated seats, a five-zone climate control system, and ample space for passengers, including a surprisingly comfortable third row. The X7's cargo space was smaller than class leaders but still practical for most needs.

The 2020 Nissan Murano featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. While not the quickest off the line, it performed well on highways. The CVT was quiet, contributing to a serene cabin environment. The Murano achieved an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. It came standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available. The Murano's suspension smoothed out road imperfections, though it exhibited body lean in corners. It had a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive AWD system. The X7 included eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which improved responsiveness and fuel efficiency. However, its EPA ratings were slightly lower than the previous year, at 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds and offered a smooth, comfortable ride with advanced suspension systems. Despite its weight, the X7 handled well, though it exhibited some body motions in dynamic driving situations.

The 2020 Nissan Murano's Zero Gravity seats were a highlight, providing exceptional comfort for long journeys. The Murano offered more headroom and shoulder room than the Lexus RX, though it had less front legroom. It had 32.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the second row upright and 67.0 cubic feet with it folded. The Murano's interior featured dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, and available leather seating. A dual-pane panoramic moonroof was standard on the Platinum trim. The Murano's center console lacked practical storage for smartphones, but its low cargo floor and easy-to-fold rear seats enhanced usability.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was luxurious, with heated and ventilated seats, premium leather, and a five-zone climate control system. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable, though the long rear doors could make entry and exit challenging. The third row was surprisingly accommodating for adults. The X7 offered 48.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded and 90.4 cubic feet with the second row down. The power clamshell tailgate added convenience, though the cargo space was smaller than some competitors.

The 2020 Nissan Murano featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, four USB ports, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a six-speaker audio system. Buyers could upgrade to an 11-speaker Bose audio system and navigation. The Murano Platinum included NissanConnect Services, offering remote functionalities and emergency services. Despite being behind competitors in tech, the Murano's system was user-friendly and functional.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and an iDrive 7.0 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen. It included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro with real-time traffic and parking information. The system offered wireless charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control. The X7's technology was advanced and user-friendly, though it could be distracting while driving.

The 2020 Nissan Murano included Safety Shield 360 as standard on SV, SL, and Platinum trims, offering forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and more. It received "good" ratings from the IIHS, except for headlights, and five-star NHTSA ratings, except for a four-star rollover rating.

The 2021 BMW X7 came with standard safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. These included evasive-steering assist, traffic-jam assist, and semi-automated parking. The X7's safety systems were effective and reliable, though some features required acclimation.