2020 Nissan Murano vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2020 Nissan Murano showcased a design that was a carryover from the previous generation of Nissan vehicles. Despite receiving a facelift in 2019 with a refreshed grille, redesigned LED headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs, the Murano's exterior remained attractive but not particularly modern. This was especially noticeable as newer models like the Nissan Pathfinder and Armada debuted with updated looks. The Murano was available in S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, with midrange and higher trims receiving more standard features. The interior, particularly in the Platinum grade, offered premium materials but was somewhat dated, especially in the center stack and console design. However, the Murano still managed to feel upscale compared to some of its competitors, with controls that were intuitive and easy to reach.

The 2021 Lexus NX retained the brand's signature design elements, with sharp lines and a sculpted exterior that echoed the smaller UX and larger RX models. The NX was available in three versions: NX 300, NX 300 F Sport, and NX 300h hybrid, with the F Sport model offering a sportier appearance. The interior of the NX was well-crafted, with excellent material fit and finish, and featured quilted NuLuxe sport seats exclusive to the F Sport model. The gauge cluster was familiar to Lexus drivers, though it appeared dated compared to newer digital displays. The NX's center stack also showed its age, with an unusual layout that limited small-item storage. Despite these quirks, the NX provided a comfortable and engaging driving experience, with a focus on luxury and refinement.

The 2020 Nissan Murano was powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. While not the quickest off the line, the Murano excelled at highway speeds, offering smooth overtaking capabilities. Its continuously variable transmission (CVT) operated quietly, contributing to a serene cabin environment. The Murano achieved an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined, which was competitive for its class. Available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), the Murano provided a comfortable ride, though it exhibited some body lean during cornering. Its four-wheel independent suspension helped absorb road imperfections, enhancing passenger comfort. The Murano had a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds, positioning it as a capable cruiser rather than a sporty SUV.

The 2021 Lexus NX, equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, produced 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The luxury SUV's six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though not as smooth as newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, a respectable time for its segment. While the powertrain could be noisy under hard acceleration, the ride was generally quiet. The NX F Sport featured Active Sound Control, which electronically enhanced the engine note through the speakers. The NX offered FWD as standard, with AWD available across all trims. Fuel economy was decent, with the FWD model achieving 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. The AWD version had similar figures, with a slight decrease in combined efficiency. The NX's adaptive suspension system, borrowed from the LC 500 sport coupe, provided a smooth and engaging driving experience, though the steering lacked feedback. The NX had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and a top speed of 124 mph.

The 2020 Nissan Murano was praised for its Zero Gravity seats, providing exceptional comfort for long journeys. The Murano offered more headroom than the Lexus RX but had less front legroom. It excelled in shoulder room, particularly in the second row, and had 3 cubic feet more passenger volume than the 2021 Rogue. Designed with Empty Nesters in mind, the Murano prioritized passenger comfort over cargo space, offering up to 32.1 cubic feet with the second row upright and 67.0 cubic feet with the seats folded. Despite less cargo space than some competitors, the Murano's low cargo floor and easy-to-fold rear seats made it practical for everyday use. Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control and keyless entry, with options for leather seating, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic moonroof. The Murano's center console lacked convenient smartphone storage, but overall, the SUV provided a comfortable and accessible interior.

The 2021 Lexus NX boasted a stylish and comfortable interior, with ample room for front and rear passengers. The second-row seats offered good legroom, and the 60/40 split-folding design added versatility. While engine noise could intrude, road and wind noise were well-muted, typical of a Lexus. The NX's cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded, making it one of the smallest in its class. A power liftgate with kick sensor technology was available, along with power-folding rear seats. Despite its compact size, the NX provided a luxurious and comfortable environment for occupants.

The 2020 Nissan Murano lagged behind competitors in technology but offered a solid set of features. Standard equipment included an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, four USB ports, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a six-speaker audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with an attractive interface. Optional upgrades included an 11-speaker Bose audio system, HD Radio, and navigation with traffic functionality. Murano Platinum buyers received NissanConnect Services, offering remote functionalities and emergency assistance. An Amazon Alexa skill was available for added convenience.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an infotainment screen positioned high on the dashboard, with an 8-inch touchscreen standard and a 10.3-inch screen available with the Navigation package. The package included predictive traffic information and Lexus Enform Destination Assist, a personal concierge service. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though the Lexus infotainment system was less user-friendly. Other standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth, a USB port, HD Radio, and a WiFi hotspot. The NX offered a Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system on top-tier models and was compatible with the Lexus Enform Remote app, providing remote access and vehicle monitoring. Lexus Enform Services Connect sent maintenance alerts to the owner and retailer, with a 10-year subscription included.

The 2020 Nissan Murano came equipped with Safety Shield 360 on SV, SL, and Platinum trims, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. A rearview camera was standard. The Murano received "good" ratings from the IIHS, except for headlights, and a "superior" mark for front crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it five stars overall, with four stars for rollover.

The 2021 Lexus NX included Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 as standard, offering a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, automatic high beams, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. Optional features included park assist, a surround-view camera, and adaptive headlights. The NX received top "Good" scores from the IIHS, with "Superior" front crash prevention and an "Acceptable" LATCH system rating. The NHTSA gave it a five-star overall safety rating. Lexus provided a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.