2020 Nissan Murano vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2020 Nissan Murano retained the familiar face of the previous generation of Nissan vehicles. Despite receiving a styling update in 2019, which included a refreshed grille, redesigned LED headlights and taillights, added fog lights, new wheel designs, and additional paint color choices, the Murano's exterior design remained attractive but not particularly modern. As newer models like the redesigned Nissan Pathfinder and Armada emerged, the Murano stood out as one of the few models without Nissan's latest design language. Available in S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, the Murano offered more standard features in its midrange and higher trims, such as heated outside mirrors, adaptive cruise control, and rear sonar. The interior, especially in the Platinum grade, featured premium materials but was somewhat dated, particularly in the center stack and console areas. Despite this, the Murano maintained an upscale feel compared to the 2021 Nissan Rogue, with intuitive controls and a comfortable ride.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, on the other hand, was a testament to elegance and understatement, despite its massive size. Sharing its side glass and overall footprint with the Ford Expedition, the Navigator distinguished itself with unique design elements, such as its rectilinear grille, sweeping LED running lights, and full-width taillight assembly. The Monochromatic Package added a body-color grille, while chrome accents on the door trim and fender logos kept the look classy. Inside, the Navigator impressed with seven color palettes and a taste for finer details, like the layered wood trim and floating center console. The Black Label trims elevated the luxury with more textures and softer leather. The Perfect Position seats offered 30 different adjustments, providing unparalleled comfort. While the Navigator's ride wasn't as supple as some competitors, its overall refinement and power made it a standout in its class.

The 2020 Nissan Murano was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. While not the quickest off the line, it performed well on highways, overtaking other vehicles with ease. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) contributed to a quieter cabin experience, aligning with Nissan's goal of achieving "library level" sound. The Murano's fuel economy was decent, with an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined. It came standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available. The Murano's handling was comfortable, though it exhibited some body lean. Its four-wheel independent suspension helped absorb bumps, providing a smooth ride. The Murano had a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds, making it suitable for light towing needs.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator boasted a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offered impressive acceleration and a thrilling sound. Available in rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, the Navigator's 4WD system was smooth and responsive. Its towing capacity was substantial, with 8,300 pounds for 4WD models and 8,700 pounds for RWD models. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging in the teens, with an EPA-estimated 17 mpg combined. The Navigator's adaptive dampers provided a decent ride, though not as refined as some competitors. Despite its size, the Navigator's low-end thrust and quiet cabin made it a comfortable highway cruiser, with paddle shifters adding a touch of sportiness.

The 2020 Nissan Murano was known for its Zero Gravity seats, providing exceptional comfort for long journeys. It offered more headroom than the Lexus RX but had less front legroom. The Murano 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 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 automatic climate control and keyless entry, with options for leather seating, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-pane panoramic moonroof.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious interior, accommodating up to eight passengers with its optional bench seating. Its boxy shape provided ample cargo space, with 19 cubic feet behind the third row, 57 behind the second, and 103 in total. The long-wheelbase Navigator L increased these figures to 34, 73, and 120 cubic feet, respectively. The rear glass opened separately from the tailgate, adding convenience. The Navigator Reserve featured heated second-row seats and a three-zone climate system, though it lacked some features found in German competitors. The front seats were highly adjustable, offering unparalleled comfort and visibility. While parking was challenging due to its size, the Navigator's large windows and high driving position aided maneuverability.

The 2020 Nissan Murano lagged behind competitors in technology but offered a standard 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It included four USB ports, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a six-speaker audio system. Buyers could upgrade to an 11-speaker Bose audio system, HD Radio, and navigation. Murano Platinum models featured NissanConnect Services, providing remote functionalities and emergency services. An Amazon Alexa skill was available for added convenience.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology felt dated compared to newer models, with a 10-inch touchscreen and a 20-speaker Revel Ultima stereo. While the software was intuitive, it lacked wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Navigator offered onboard 4G WiFi, wireless device charging, and a smartwatch app. Lincoln's remote app functions were included for five years, with SiriusXM traffic data for six years. Rear entertainment options included Roku media streaming and various connections. The Navigator's technology was simple and user-friendly, though not as advanced as some competitors.

The 2020 Nissan Murano featured Nissan's Safety Shield 360 as standard on SV, SL, and Platinum trims, including forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. It received "good" ratings from the IIHS, except for headlights, and earned five stars from the NHTSA, except for rollover resistance, which received four stars.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received five stars overall from the NHTSA, with four stars for 4WD rollover resistance and three stars for RWD models. It offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Optional inflatable rear seat belts provided added safety for second-row passengers.