Nissan Rogue vs. Nissan Murano

What’s better about the Rogue?

More efficient. Because the Rogue uses a four-cylinder engine while the Murano uses a V6, the Rogue is naturally more efficiency than the Murano. The all-wheel-drive Rogue is rated by the EPA at 25/32/27 MPG city/highway/combined, while the all-wheel-drive Murano is 21/28/24 MPG city/highway/combined.

It’s cheaper. The advantage of the Rogue being positioned down the ladder from the Murano is it’s cheaper. Currently, a new Rogue starts at around $25,795 for a base S front-wheel-drive model. The cheapest Murano is the S front-wheel-drive version and it starts at $32,045, a cool $6,250 more than the Rogue.

Better styling. The Rogue is a handsome crossover, mixing strength and style into a compelling package — something many of its more staid rivals can’t do. The Murano, meanwhile, is a little odd-looking to many people. While we personally like the expressive, dramatic styling of the Murano, many don’t, which could hurt your resale value in the long run.

Third row. Unlike the Murano, the Rogue can be equipped with a third-row seat. Though it’s tight on space and you probably wouldn’t put adults back there, having the option in case you pull last-minute carpool duty to soccer practice is a nice touch

What’s better about the Murano?

More luxury. The Murano is positioned higher in Nissan’s crossover lineup than the Rogue. This means that while it does cost more than the Rogue, the Murano also offers a higher level of refinement, amenities, comfort and style.

More power. Since the Murano is a higher-tier segment of vehicle than the Rogue, it naturally has a larger, more powerful engine. The Murano has a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. The Rogue, meanwhile, has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that makes 170 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque.

More space. The Murano offers more cargo room both with the rear seats upright and with them folded than the Rogue does. It also offers more legroom and headroom in the second row than the Rogue.

Autolist’s take:

The Rogue is easily the most popular vehicle Nissan sells each year and with its sharp styling, useful interior and smart pricing, we can see why. But the Murano is a cut above the Rogue in terms of style (at least we think so), comfort, refinement and power. Yes it costs more, but to us that’s a tradeoff we’re willing to make — particularly in the used market where it’s likely you could find one to fit your budget. So we say Buy the Murano.