2020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Nissan Murano

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was available in S, SV, and SL trim levels, offering a straightforward choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). Our test model featured the SL trim with front-drive, the SL Premium Package, and additional accessories, totaling $34,870. Despite its age, the Rogue maintained an attractive appearance, highlighted by its bold V-Motion grille and 19-inch aluminum wheels. However, the interior design showed its age with older styling themes and unimpressive plastic surfaces. A positive aspect was the padded sides of the center console, providing comfort for drivers.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Murano had a design that once seemed ahead of its time but had become more standard in the industry. Its L-shaped LED headlights and contoured front end were complemented by a conservative interior, focusing on comfort for commutes and road trips. The Murano's cabin was user-friendly, with controls intuitively placed. Available in S, SV, SL, and Platinum trims, the Murano offered a range of features, from basic amenities in the S trim to luxurious additions like a dual-panel panoramic moonroof and premium leather in the Platinum trim.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue was equipped with a single 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Weighing up to 3,671 pounds, the Rogue's powertrain was adequate but not sporty, even with a Sport driving mode. While the CVT maximized available power, the Rogue struggled with acceleration, especially during freeway merging or overtaking. The EPA estimated 29 mpg for FWD models, but real-world testing showed a disappointing 24.9 mpg. The Rogue's ride and handling benefited from Intelligent Trace Control and Active Ride Control, but it lacked driving excitement due to heavy steering and CVT drone.

The 2021 Nissan Murano featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT and available in FWD or AWD. The V6 provided strong low-speed acceleration, though the CVT dulled its power at higher speeds. The Murano excelled in comfort, offering a smooth ride and refined handling, making it ideal for commuting and road trips. However, its towing capacity was limited to 1,500 pounds, lower than many midsize and compact SUVs.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's interior posed challenges for taller drivers, with seats that were undersized compared to Nissan's usual Zero Gravity designs. The driver's seat lacked adjustability for optimal comfort, making long drives less enjoyable. Rear passengers, however, benefited from high seat cushions, excellent thigh support, and a panoramic sunroof. The Rogue offered 39 cubic feet of cargo space, surpassing competitors like the Mazda CX-5, and featured underfloor storage and a Divide-n-Hide cargo system.

The 2021 Nissan Murano provided up to 67 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded, and 32.1 cubic feet with them in use, less than some competitors. Despite this, the Murano excelled in user-friendliness, with a traditional shifter and ample storage options. Its two-row seating configuration offered generous headroom and legroom, with partially reclining second-row seats enhancing comfort.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue's infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a hands-free text messaging assistant. Upgrades offered features like SiriusXM, navigation, and a Bose sound system. NissanConnect Services provided remote access and safety features, but the 7-inch touchscreen interface was outdated and slow, diminishing the tech experience.

The 2021 Nissan Murano came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring a user-friendly menu and physical controls. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with available upgrades like an 11-speaker Bose stereo and navigation, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2020 Nissan Rogue featured standard Safety Shield 360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional options included a surround-view camera and ProPilot Assist. However, the Rogue's safety ratings were less impressive, with a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA and issues in IIHS testing.

The 2021 Nissan Murano also included Safety Shield 360, with new standard features like reverse automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Additional safety options included a surround-view monitor and adaptive cruise control, enhancing its safety profile.