Suv showdown: nissan murano vs ford escape – which reigns supreme?
What To Know
- The Ford Escape, in contrast, adopts a more rugged and utilitarian aesthetic, featuring a wider stance and a more boxy profile.
- However, the Murano offers a few additional features that the Escape does not, such as a panoramic moonroof, a Bose premium audio system, and a hands-free liftgate.
- Both the Nissan Murano and the Ford Escape offer spacious interiors, but the Murano has a slight edge in terms of legroom and overall cabin volume.
The automotive landscape boasts a plethora of exceptional crossover SUVs vying for the attention of discerning drivers. Among the most revered contenders are the Nissan Murano and the Ford Escape. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and practicality. However, understanding their distinct strengths and differences is paramount when making an informed purchase decision. This comprehensive comparison delves into every facet of the Nissan Murano versus the Ford Escape to empower readers with the knowledge they need to select the perfect crossover SUV for their specific needs and preferences.
Design and Style
The Nissan Murano exudes a sleek and sophisticated presence, with its bold grille, sharp lines, and sculpted body. The Ford Escape, in contrast, adopts a more rugged and utilitarian aesthetic, featuring a wider stance and a more boxy profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two designs is a matter of personal taste.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the Nissan Murano and be greeted by a spacious and well-appointed cabin. Premium materials, soft-touch surfaces, and ample legroom create a luxurious ambiance. The Ford Escape offers a similarly spacious interior, but its materials and fit-and-finish may not quite match the refinement of the Murano.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the Nissan Murano comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. The Ford Escape, on the other hand, offers a range of powertrain options, including a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and a hybrid powertrain. While the Murano’s V6 provides a more robust and responsive driving experience, the Escape’s smaller engines offer improved fuel economy.
In terms of handling, the Nissan Murano boasts a well-balanced chassis that delivers a comfortable and composed ride. The Ford Escape, with its stiffer suspension, may feel more agile and sporty in certain driving situations.
Features and Technology
Both the Nissan Murano and the Ford Escape come well-equipped with a range of features and technologies. Standard amenities include a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of safety features. However, the Murano offers a few additional features that the Escape does not, such as a panoramic moonroof, a Bose premium audio system, and a hands-free liftgate.
Safety
Safety is paramount for both Nissan and Ford. The Murano and the Escape have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of airbags, traction control systems, and advanced driver-assistance features.
Price and Value
The Nissan Murano has a starting price of $32,500, while the Ford Escape starts at $27,000. The price difference is primarily due to the Murano’s more powerful engine and standard features. However, the Escape offers a wider range of powertrain options and a more affordable entry point.
In a nutshell: Choosing the Perfect Crossover SUV
The Nissan Murano and the Ford Escape are both excellent choices in the crossover SUV segment. The Murano offers a more luxurious and well-equipped experience, while the Escape provides a more affordable and fuel-efficient option. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this comparison, you can make an informed decision and select the crossover SUV that perfectly suits your lifestyle.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: Both the Nissan Murano and the Ford Escape offer spacious interiors, but the Murano has a slight edge in terms of legroom and overall cabin volume.
Q: Which vehicle offers better fuel economy?
A: The Ford Escape offers better fuel economy than the Nissan Murano, especially with the hybrid powertrain option.
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Nissan Murano has a more powerful standard engine than the Ford Escape, but the Escape offers a turbocharged engine option that provides comparable performance.
Q: Which vehicle has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Nissan Murano and the Ford Escape have earned top safety ratings from the NHTSA and the IIHS.
Q: Which vehicle has more standard features?
A: The Nissan Murano offers a few additional standard features that the Ford Escape does not, such as a panoramic moonroof, a Bose premium audio system, and a hands-free liftgate.