2020 Nissan Murano vs 2021 Lexus RX

The 2020 Nissan Murano showcased a design that was a carryover from the previous generation of Nissan vehicles. Despite receiving updates in 2019, including a refreshed grille, redesigned LED headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs, the Murano's exterior remained attractive but not particularly modern. As newer models like the Nissan Pathfinder and Armada were introduced, the Murano's styling began to feel dated. Available in S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, the Murano offered more standard features in its midrange and higher trims, such as heated mirrors and adaptive cruise control. The interior, especially in the Platinum grade, featured premium materials but was hampered by dated design elements, particularly in the center stack and console.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus RX embodied the modern design aesthetic of Lexus with its large grille, angular headlamps, and floating roof. The RX was available in five variants, including the RX F Sport and RX Hybrid, each offering unique features. The RX's design updates from 2020, such as elongated headlights, remained for 2021, giving the SUV a more refined look. Standard features included 18-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting, with options for 20-inch wheels and triple-beam LED headlights. Inside, the RX offered a well-appointed interior with standard NuLuxe-trimmed seats and available semi-aniline leather upholstery. The center console design, however, was criticized for its dated appearance, despite the functional infotainment system.

The 2020 Nissan Murano was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. While not the quickest, it performed well on highways, aided by a quiet continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Murano achieved an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. It came standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available. The Murano's suspension provided a comfortable ride, though it exhibited body lean in corners. Its towing capacity was rated at 1,500 pounds.

The 2021 Lexus RX, including the RX F-Sport, featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350 achieved 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The RX Hybrid models offered 308 horsepower and better fuel efficiency, with up to 31 mpg in the city. The RX's suspension and handling were improved for 2020, providing a more dynamic driving experience. The F Sport Handling package added adaptive suspension and sport seats. The RX's top speed was limited to 124 mph, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.7 seconds for FWD models.

The 2020 Nissan Murano was praised for its Zero Gravity seats, providing exceptional comfort for long journeys. It offered more headroom and shoulder room than the Lexus RX, though it had less front legroom. The Murano's cargo space was up to 32.1 cubic feet with the second row upright and 67.0 cubic feet with it folded. Despite less cargo space than some competitors, the Murano's low cargo floor and easy-to-fold rear seats made it practical for daily use. Standard features included dual-zone climate control and keyless entry, with options for leather seating and a panoramic moonroof.

The 2021 Lexus RX provided a functional interior with seating for five in the two-row models and up to seven in the three-row RXL. Front and second-row seats were spacious, but the third row was tight. The RX offered 18.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 56.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The three-row version had less cargo space, with just 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2020 Nissan Murano featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It included four USB ports, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker audio system. Upgrades included an 11-speaker Bose audio system and navigation. The Murano Platinum offered NissanConnect Services with remote functionalities. Despite being behind competitors in tech, the Murano's system was user-friendly and colorful.

The 2021 Lexus RX came standard with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It offered six USB ports and a nine-speaker sound system. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system. The RX's infotainment system was functional but not the most intuitive. The Remote Touch controller was designed to reduce touchscreen use but took up console space. The RX lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2020 Nissan Murano included Safety Shield 360 as standard on SV, SL, and Platinum trims, featuring forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. It received "good" ratings from the IIHS, except for headlights, and a "superior" mark for front crash prevention. The NHTSA rated it five stars overall, with four stars for rollover.

The 2021 Lexus RX earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation with "Good" crashworthiness scores. The NHTSA rated the RX 350, RX 350L, and RX 450h four stars overall, with five stars for side-impact. Standard safety features included 10 airbags, blind-spot monitoring, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The RX lacked advanced hands-off driving tech found in some competitors.