The 2020 Ford Explorer and the 2020 Nissan Murano are great options in the midsize SUVs. Both are stylish and a smooth ride, but the comfort and new design along with its powerful engine, makes the Ford Explorer a sure bet. Let’s take a look at both.
Designs
This year’s completely redesigned 2020 Ford Explorer is not only stylish on the outside, but the inside does not disappoint. Comfortable with three rows of seating, including two captain chairs, this SUV seats 6 with the option to seat 7. With plenty of legroom and cargo space, the Explorer is a comfortable ride. The Ford’s standard turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with its rear-wheel-drive platform, improves handling and towing; and it transmits power to its wheels more effectively than the Nissan Murano. For pulling heavy loads, the Ford Explorer is the clear choice.
The Murano may have a stylish exterior design; but it hasn’t gone through a redesign since 2015, making it not as exciting next to the Explorer. It is labeled an SUV but doesn’t offer many SUV options. Though it may have a stylish sloping roofline, it limits rear visibility. Its modest cargo space is not practical and limits your road trips. This competition boasts comfortable seating, but it can only seat five. The standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that is mated to the Nissan Xtronic automatic transmission can not outdo the Explorer in towing your weekend toys. Don’t plan on taking the Murano too far off-road.
The new 2020 Ford Explorer’s safety and tech features are sure to impress. Its highly rated infotainment system can quickly connect to your smartphone with added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For your safety and assistance, the Explorer is equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360 technology and driver-assist features. Your mind will be put to rest with Blind Spot Information System, Rear View Camera, Lane-Keeping System, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Auto High-Beam Headlamps.
Nissan’s 2020 Murano offers some similar safety features as the Explorer, such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind-Spot Monitoring, a 360-degree Around-View Monitor and Rear-View camera. It comes with standard entertainment features, such as: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio and voice recognition, but their infotainment system can feel dated with some functions using physical controls instead of a touch screen. It just doesn’t beat the Explorer’s new updated system.
The basic list price for a 2020 Ford Explorer starts at $36,675 with a fully loaded Platinum starting at $58,250. These prices support Ford’s fully redesigned Explorer models and a long list of standard tech and safety features. Explorer’s most efficient base engine gets 21/28 mpg in the city and highway.
The 2020 Nissan Murano starts at $31,530 for the S model and ranges to $45,330 for the loaded Platinum model. Pricing is somewhat lower than the Explorer, but Ford’s Explorer offers so much more for a midsize SUV. The Murano estimates 20/28 MPG city and highway, similar to the Explorer’s powerful SUV engine.
The 2020 Ford Explorer does a lot of things well. The choice seems clear when deciding between the newly redesigned 2020 Ford Explorer and 2020 Nissan Murano. You decide.