Nissan Murano vs Rogue: Which Suv Reigns Supreme?
Choosing the right SUV can feel like navigating a maze. With so many options, how do you find the perfect fit? Today, we’re putting two popular Nissan contenders head-to-head to help you decide which one deserves a spot in your driveway.
We’re diving into a detailed comparison of the Nissan Murano and the Nissan Rogue. These SUVs offer distinct features and cater to different needs, making the choice a crucial one for potential buyers. Understanding their differences is key to making an informed decision.
The Murano brings a touch of luxury and a more refined driving experience, while the Rogue focuses on practicality and affordability. This comparison will explore their strengths and weaknesses, covering everything from performance and features to pricing and overall value. Get ready to discover which Nissan SUV best suits your lifestyle.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Murano | Rogue |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 1.5L Turbo 3-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 260 hp | 201 hp |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 20/28 mpg | 30/37 mpg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seats) | 32.1 cu. ft. | 36.5 cu. ft. |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 8-inch | 8-inch/9-inch (depending on trim) |
| Standard Safety Features | Nissan Safety Shield 360 | Nissan Safety Shield 360 |
| Available All-Wheel Drive | Yes | Yes |
| Base Trim | S | S |
| Warranty (Basic) | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard | Standard |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Engine & Performance
- Nissan Murano: The Murano typically features a 3.5-liter V6 engine, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. It offers ample power for both city and highway driving. However, fuel economy can be slightly lower compared to smaller engines.
- Rogue: The Rogue often comes with a smaller, more fuel-efficient engine, such as a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder or a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. This results in better fuel economy, especially in city driving. The Rogue may feel less powerful than the Murano.
- Winner: Murano
Fuel Economy
- Nissan Murano: The Murano, with its V6 engine, generally offers lower fuel economy than the Rogue. Expect combined MPG in the mid-20s. This is a trade-off for its more powerful engine.
- Rogue: The Rogue’s smaller engine options contribute to better fuel economy. It typically achieves higher MPG figures, making it a more economical choice for daily driving and long commutes.
- Winner: Rogue
Interior Space & Comfort
- Nissan Murano: The Murano often boasts a more luxurious interior with premium materials and a spacious cabin. It provides ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, contributing to a comfortable ride.
- Rogue: The Rogue offers a practical and functional interior. While comfortable, it might not match the Murano in terms of premium materials. It provides sufficient space for passengers and cargo, but might feel slightly less spacious than the Murano.
- Winner: Murano
Cargo Capacity
- Nissan Murano: The Murano offers a decent amount of cargo space, suitable for everyday needs. The rear seats fold down to expand the cargo area, but the overall capacity might be slightly less than the Rogue.
- Rogue: The Rogue generally provides more cargo space than the Murano, making it a better choice for hauling luggage, groceries, or larger items. Its flexible cargo system enhances its practicality.
- Winner: Rogue
Technology & Infotainment
- Nissan Murano: The Murano is equipped with a modern infotainment system, often including features like a touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The technology features are competitive but may vary depending on the trim level.
- Rogue: The Rogue also features a user-friendly infotainment system with similar features like smartphone integration and driver-assistance technologies. It often includes Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite.
- Winner: Tie
Safety Features
- Nissan Murano: The Murano typically includes a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The exact features vary by trim level.
- Rogue: The Rogue is known for its strong safety ratings and advanced safety technologies. It often comes standard with Nissan’s Safety Shield 360, providing a high level of protection.
- Winner: Rogue
Price & Value
- Nissan Murano: The Murano generally has a higher starting price than the Rogue, reflecting its more premium features and larger engine. However, it offers a good value proposition for the features it provides.
- Rogue: The Rogue tends to be more affordable, making it a budget-friendly option. It offers a good value proposition, especially for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and practicality.
- Winner: Rogue
Exterior Styling
- Nissan Murano: The Murano often features a more stylish and upscale exterior design, with a focus on a sleek and modern aesthetic. Its design often stands out in the SUV segment.
- Rogue: The Rogue has a more functional and practical exterior design. While stylish, it often prioritizes functionality and ease of use.
- Winner: Murano
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Engine Power | Nissan Murano |
| Fuel Efficiency | Rogue |
| Cargo Space | Rogue |
| Interior Quality | Nissan Murano |
| Value | Rogue |
What They Have in Common
- Safety Features: Both the Murano and Rogue come standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, providing a suite of advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. This helps to ensure a safer driving experience for both vehicles.
- Seating Capacity: Both SUVs comfortably seat up to five passengers, making them suitable for families or individuals needing ample passenger space. This shared capacity provides versatility for various transportation needs.
- Infotainment: Both vehicles offer user-friendly infotainment systems with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing for seamless smartphone connectivity and access to apps, navigation, and entertainment. This integration enhances convenience and connectivity.
- Available All-Wheel Drive: Both the Murano and Rogue offer the option of all-wheel drive, enhancing traction and stability in challenging weather conditions or on rough terrain. This feature provides added confidence and control.
- Cvt Transmission: Both vehicles utilize a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which contributes to smooth acceleration and optimized fuel efficiency. This shared transmission technology enhances the overall driving experience.
Nissan Murano Vs Rogue Buying Guide
Performance and Handling
The Nissan Murano offers a smoother, more refined driving experience with its standard V6 engine, providing ample power for both city and highway driving. Its ride quality is generally considered more comfortable, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with greater ease. The Rogue, while also competent, typically features a smaller engine, often a four-cylinder, which can feel less responsive, particularly when fully loaded. Its handling is more geared towards fuel efficiency and maneuverability, making it well-suited for urban environments. The Murano’s heavier build contributes to a more planted feel on the road, especially at higher speeds.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Murano boasts a slightly more spacious and upscale interior, with a focus on premium materials and a quiet cabin. Front and rear passengers enjoy generous legroom and headroom, contributing to a more relaxed journey. The Rogue provides a practical and versatile interior, with clever storage solutions and a good amount of space for passengers and cargo. However, the Murano often feels more luxurious, with better sound insulation and higher-quality materials. The choice depends on prioritizing overall passenger comfort versus maximizing cargo capacity and versatility.
Features and Technology
Both vehicles offer a range of features, including advanced driver-assistance systems and infotainment technologies. The Murano often comes standard with a more comprehensive suite of safety features and may offer a larger touchscreen display and a more premium sound system. The Rogue provides competitive features, including a user-friendly infotainment system and a range of available driver-assistance technologies such as ProPILOT Assist. The specific features available will vary depending on the trim levels and model years; however, the Murano generally leans towards offering a more sophisticated technology experience.
Fuel Efficiency
The Rogue generally excels in fuel economy, offering better gas mileage compared to the Murano. This is primarily due to its smaller engine and lighter weight. The Murano’s V6 engine, while providing more power, consumes more fuel, resulting in lower miles per gallon. For drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency and want to minimize their spending on gasoline, the Rogue is the preferable option. However, the difference in fuel economy might not be a major concern for those who prioritize performance and overall driving experience over saving at the pump.
Price and Value
The Rogue typically offers a lower starting price point, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious buyers. However, the Murano’s slightly higher price often reflects its more upscale features, more powerful engine, and enhanced interior quality. When considering value, it’s important to weigh your needs and priorities. The Rogue might be a better value if you prioritize affordability and fuel efficiency. The Murano could be a better value if you’re seeking a more refined driving experience and a more luxurious interior. Consider features, reliability, and long-term ownership costs.
Reliability and Maintenance
Both the Murano and the Rogue are generally considered reliable vehicles, but their long-term maintenance costs can vary. The Rogue, with its smaller engine and simpler mechanical components, might have slightly lower maintenance costs over time. The Murano’s V6 engine and more complex systems may require more frequent or potentially more expensive maintenance. Researching reliability ratings and common issues for the specific model years you are considering is advisable. Proper maintenance and following the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule are crucial for maintaining the longevity of either vehicle.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Nissan Murano If…
- You prioritize a more powerful engine and smoother acceleration.
- You desire a more upscale and refined interior with premium materials.
- You prefer a slightly more spacious interior for passengers.
- You value a more comfortable ride quality.
Buy Rogue If…
- You prioritize fuel efficiency and lower running costs.
- You prefer a more compact and maneuverable SUV for city driving.
- You desire a more modern and tech-focused interior.
- You are looking for a more affordable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in engine performance?
The Murano typically features a V6 engine, delivering more power and a smoother driving experience, particularly for highway merging and acceleration. The Rogue often utilizes a smaller four-cylinder engine, which prioritizes fuel efficiency. This results in a less powerful feel during acceleration, particularly when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers or cargo. The choice depends on your driving needs and preferences for power versus fuel economy.
Which car offers a more comfortable ride?
The Murano generally provides a more comfortable ride due to its suspension tuning and higher-quality materials. It absorbs bumps and road imperfections better, contributing to a quieter and more refined cabin experience. The Rogue offers a comfortable ride too, but the Murano’s focus on premium features and a more compliant suspension often translates to a more relaxed and enjoyable driving experience, especially on longer journeys or rougher roads.
Is the Rogue more fuel-efficient?
Yes, the Rogue typically offers better fuel economy compared to the Murano. Its smaller engine and lighter weight contribute to higher miles per gallon, making it a more economical choice for drivers who prioritize minimizing their fuel costs. The Murano’s V6 engine, while delivering more power, consumes more fuel. The specific fuel economy ratings will vary slightly depending on the model year and driving conditions.
Which car is better for families?
Both the Murano and the Rogue can serve families well, but the choice depends on your specific needs. The Rogue offers a more practical interior with versatile storage and good cargo capacity, suitable for families with young children. The Murano provides a more luxurious and spacious cabin, which can be preferred for families who prioritize passenger comfort. Consider cargo space, safety features, and overall interior comfort.
What about the infotainment systems?
Both vehicles come with infotainment systems that provide access to features like navigation, smartphone integration, and audio controls. The Murano often features a larger touchscreen display and a more intuitive interface. The Rogue’s system is generally user-friendly and offers a range of features. The specific features and user experience will vary depending on the trim level and model year. Test-driving both vehicles can help you determine which system you prefer.
Which car has a better safety rating?
Both the Murano and the Rogue generally receive good safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA. Both vehicles come equipped with a range of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. The specific safety ratings and available safety features may vary slightly depending on the model year and trim level. Consulting the safety ratings from these organizations is recommended.
How do the resale values compare?
Resale values can fluctuate based on market conditions, model year, and overall demand. Generally, both the Murano and the Rogue hold their value reasonably well. However, due to the Rogue’s higher fuel efficiency and potentially lower starting price, it may retain a slightly higher percentage of its original value over time. Researching depreciation trends for specific model years can provide more insights.
Final Verdict
The Nissan Murano and Rogue both offer compelling features in the mid-size SUV segment. The Murano stands out with its refined driving experience, luxurious interior, and powerful engine. The Rogue distinguishes itself through its fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability. While the Murano caters to those seeking a more upscale driving experience, the Rogue appeals to buyers looking for a versatile and budget-friendly option. The best choice depends on individual priorities and driving needs.
Winner: Nissan Murano