The battle between Nissan's SUVs is a pretty close race, but it's more of a sibling rivalry when it comes to the Nissan Rogue vs. Murano. These models are a step apart in the line up with the compact Rogue being one of the top sellers for Nissan. The Murano sits comfortably in the midsize range, coming in about average in all ways including price, cargo space, and gas mileage, while the Rogue belies its compact classification with a roomy interior.
If you're looking for some help deciding between a Nissan Rogue and Murano, we have some information on a variety of factors that could help you decide which is better for you. Here's a brief comparison of what we know based on our research and expert reviews when it comes to price, size, gas mileage, and more.
Nissan Rogue vs. Murano Price
The compact Nissan Rogue got a recent price hike. The base S trim now starts with an MSRP of $28,585 and the lineup tops out in Platinum trim starting at $38,365 including destination.
When it comes to pricing, the Murano is definitely a bigger hit to the pocketbook with a starting MSRP of $34,955 ranging to $48,205. Being the larger of the two Nissan crossovers, this is no surprise.
Fortunately, Nissan sometimes has Murano deals that can make it surprisingly good to lease. To put that into perspective, Nissan Rogue deals tend to be less favorable by comparison for the money.
Nissan Murano vs. Rogue Size & Cargo Space
Nissan Murano seats five in 108 cubic feet of passenger space. It seats occupants in relative comfort affording 40.5 inches of legroom in the front and 38.7 inches in the back. Headroom is about even at 39.9 and 39.8 inches consecutively between the front and back.
The Rogue compact crossover comes in at 105 cubic feet of passenger space, but passengers won't feel the pinch in the cabin. Thoughtful use of space leaves the interior uncramped for five passengers, while taller adults will fit nicely in the front of a Rogue with 41.5 inches of legroom and 41.1 inches of headroom. Rear riders get 38.5 inches of legroom and 39.2 inches of headroom, a decent amount of space for a compact SUV.
When it comes to cargo space, the Nissan Rogue once again belies its compact status to offer 36.5 cubic feet of cargo space which turns into 74.1 cubes with the second-row seats dropped. The Murano has a total of seven inches less cargo space, coming in with a total of just 32.1 cubic feet of space with the seats in place, or 67 cubes when they're folded.
The Nissan Rogue's cargo space is among the best in class, along with other Japanese autos Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, and Mitsubishi Outlander, all coming in with more than 74 cubic feet of cargo space.
Nissan Rogue vs. Murano Gas Mileage
When you're comparing Nissan Rogue vs. Murano gas mileage, there really is no comparison – the Rogue wins hands down beating the Murano by 10 miles in FWD guise. It does this thanks to a 1.5L inline three-cylinder engine that makes 201 horsepower and 225 lb. ft. of torque. This engine gets great gas mileage but doesn't get much pep off the line.
Rogue averages a combined mileage of 33 mpg while Murano gets an average of just 23 mpg according to FuelEconomy.gov.
One plus for the Murano is that opting for AWD doesn't impact your mileage at all as it gets the same 20 city, 28 highway, and 23 combined as the FWD. On the Rogue, adding AWD drops fuel efficiency by about two miles per gallon, from 33/30/37 to 31/28/35.
Murano having better fuel economy is no surprise with its larger 3.5L V-6 engine that makes 260 horsepower and 240 lb. ft. of torque. The V-6 helps with pick-up and doesn't feel as sluggish as the Rogue.
Nissan Murano vs. Rogue Reviews
When it comes to reviews, the Rogue ranked as anything but Roguish in our expert's eyes. The compact crossover is a perfectly adequate vehicle, but won't blow your socks off with fancy interiors or blazing speed. Still, it's a deceptively roomy compact car that should get you around in comfort, delivers on price, and has an eye for safety.
The midsize Murano may be aging in its current generation, but it still boasts style and tech that belies its age. Our reviews find that even though it's aging in its class it comes with modern features and a well-laid-out infotainment system. Higher trims come with enough premium materials to feel luxurious.
Which Is Better: Nissan Rogue or Murano?
When it comes to which SUV is better, it depends on what you're looking for. Both Nissan models represent good sellers in the U.S. and hold a decent place in the market. When it comes to interior room, the compact Nissan Rogue offers class-leading passenger space. It also gets great gas mileage.
The Murano holds its own in the midsize SUV space. It hasn't gotten a facelift in a while but it manages to maintain a stylish exterior with a floating roof design. Its cabin may be showing its age but it does it in a practical and inoffensive way.
If you're looking for space to fit your people and things, the compact crossover Nissan Rogue is the way to go. But if you want to drive in comfort and have a little more pep on the way, the Murano is for you.
No matter which Nissan you choose, you may be able to find incentives to make your lease or purchase easier to handle. Ask your local Nissan dealer about your eligibility or to find out which options are available for you.