2020 Nissan Murano vs 2020 Volvo XC90

The 2020 Volvo XC90 showcased a pinnacle of modern Volvo design, proving that a large SUV could be as aesthetically pleasing as a sleek sedan. The R-Design trim featured blacked-out, honeycomb grille treatments, black window surrounds, mirrors, a more aggressive chin spoiler, and bright 22-inch rims, adding a touch of elegance to its already handsome figure. The "Thor's hammer" LED headlights and tall, thin, curving LED taillights were distinctive, while the subtle arching shoulder crease emphasized width and stability. The Thunder Grey Metallic paint contrasted beautifully with the beige-leather and aluminum interior, creating a stunning visual appeal.

The interior of the XC90 was a testament to Volvo's craftsmanship, with options like matte wood trim, wool fabric seats, and leather with aluminum or carbon-fiber trim. The seats were sculpted for comfort, offering power-adjustable thigh extensions and optional massage. The rear seats, whether a bench or captain's chairs, were nearly as comfortable as the front. The cabin was filled with rich leather, padded materials, and finer details like the Swedish flag tag and twist-action ignition knob, showcasing simplicity and quality that rivaled luxury brands like Mercedes, Audi, Lexus, and Acura.

The 2020 Nissan Murano, while updated with a refreshed grille, redesigned LED headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs, retained the face of the last generation of Nissan products. Its exterior design remained attractive but not particularly modern, especially as newer models like the Pathfinder and Armada debuted. The Murano was available in S, SV, SL, and Platinum grades, with midrange and higher trims receiving more standard features like heated outside mirrors, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-sign recognition technology.

The Murano's interior was a mix of luxe materials and dated housings, particularly in the center stack, console, and steering wheel. Despite this, it still felt upscale compared to the 2021 Nissan Rogue. The Murano's ride was comfortable, thanks to its four-wheel independent suspension, but it lacked the connected drive experience of premium German SUVs. It was more of a cruiser, similar to the Lincoln Nautilus, with a focus on comfort rather than agility.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The T5 model produced 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, which felt insufficient for such a heavy vehicle. The T6 model, with a supercharger added to the turbocharger, delivered 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, providing better performance. The Polestar tune upgrade boosted these numbers to 330 hp and 325 lb-ft. However, the XC90's acceleration was not linear, and the engine noise was unrefined for its price range. Fuel economy was also unimpressive, with the T6 AWD rated at 18 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 combined.

The T8 plug-in hybrid version offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, with an 11.6-kWh battery providing up to 18 gas-free miles. However, the added weight negated the speed benefits, and the fuel economy was only slightly better at 27 mpg combined. The Polestar upgrade improved transmission, throttle, and steering response, but the XC90 was not a sporty vehicle. It excelled in comfort and quietness, making it a great choice for those prioritizing a smooth ride.

The 2020 Nissan Murano's standard 3.5-liter V6 engine delivered 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. While not the quickest off the line, it performed well on the highway. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) was quiet and contributed to a "library level" sound in the cabin. The Murano achieved an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city, 28 highway, and 23 combined, which was competitive for its class.

The Murano came with front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available. The AWD system provided good road grip but resulted in noticeable body lean. The four-wheel independent suspension helped absorb bumps, enhancing ride comfort. The Murano was not particularly agile or sharp but offered a comfortable and fuss-free driving experience. Its towing capacity was rated at 1,500 pounds.

The 2020 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system was faster and more responsive than previous models, which was crucial since all climate controls were within the touchscreen. The system was well-organized, though some safety features were buried in menus. The XC90 offered seven seats as standard, with an integrated booster cushion for young children in the second row. Six-seat configurations were available on certain trims, providing generous legroom and comfort in the first and second rows. The third row was tight, suitable only for small children. Cargo space was up to 85.7 cubic feet with the last two rows folded.

The 2020 Nissan Murano's Zero Gravity seats were a standout feature, providing exceptional comfort for long journeys. The Murano offered more headroom than the Lexus RX but less front legroom. It excelled in shoulder room, especially in the second row, and had 3 cubic feet more passenger volume than the Rogue. The Murano's cargo space was 32.1 cubic feet with the second row upright and 67.0 cubic feet with it folded flat. While less than the class average, the low cargo floor and easy-to-fold rear seats made it practical for daily use. A power liftgate was standard on higher trims.

The Murano's interior featured dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, and available leather-appointed seating, heated steering wheel, and remote engine start. A dual-pane panoramic moonroof was standard on the Platinum trim and available on the SL. The Murano's A-pillar affected forward visibility, and the center console lacked practical storage for smartphones, though it had small-item storage and cupholders.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 came standard with Volvo Pilot Assist, a semi-automated driving system combining adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The four-zone climate control was also standard. The R-Design trim featured a Bowers & Wilkins stereo with 19 speakers and 1,400 watts of power, offering an immersive audio experience. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was high-resolution and easy to navigate, though onboard apps were slow to load. The instrument panel could display the map between analog-style dials but lacked major reconfiguration options.

The 2020 Nissan Murano lagged behind competitors in tech but offered an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, four USB ports, Bluetooth, satellite radio, a six-speaker audio system, and voice recognition. The updated touchscreen was attractive and user-friendly. Rear passengers had two USB ports for charging. Upgrades included an 11-speaker Bose audio system, HD Radio, and navigation with traffic functionality. Murano Platinum buyers received NissanConnect Services, offering features like automatic collision notification, emergency call, and remote functionalities. An Amazon Alexa skill was also available.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, though the latter's headlight test lowered its rating to a Top Safety Pick. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, pedestrian detection, driver-attention monitor, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic-sign recognition. Volvo's commitment to safety was evident in its use of high-strength steels, curtain airbags, and a unique whiplash protection system.

The 2020 Nissan Murano added Safety Shield 360 as standard on SV, SL, and Platinum trims, including 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. The Murano received "good" ratings from the IIHS, except for the headlight category, and "superior" in front crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it five stars overall, with four stars in the rollover category.