2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs 2025 Nissan Murano

The 2025 Nissan Murano showcased a completely revamped front design, featuring a next-gen lighting signature with a wing motif of horizontal lines that seamlessly integrated into the grille's slats. This new face was distinct from its predecessor, appearing wider due to both its design elements and actual dimensions, as it was nearly three inches wider and had an additional 1.4 inches of ground clearance. The Murano's side profile was accentuated by a chrome arch lining the windows, intersecting with black trim at the rear. While some styling cues were reminiscent of the Hyundai Tucson, the Murano's execution was more cohesive and sophisticated. The interior updates were less dramatic but modernized, with a sleeker dash layout and a new push-button gear selector. The "Murano glass-inspired" treatment on the dash and door cards added a unique aesthetic, although the SL trim's downgrade to leatherette seating was a notable drawback.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer retained its upright stance and large windows but introduced a refreshed grille inspired by the all-electric Wagoneer S, giving it a modern vibe. The new Upland trim added functional front recovery hooks without compromising elegance. Inside, the Grand Wagoneer boasted a clean design with strong horizontal lines, though the 12-inch infotainment screen felt small for such a large vehicle. The seats were comfortable and highly adjustable, suitable for long drives. Premium materials were evident throughout the cabin, with options for Nappa and Palermo leather and a suede headliner. The overall fit and finish were impressive, with solid-feeling components like the gearshift dial and armrest closures.

The 2025 Nissan Murano introduced a new 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, known as the 'VC turbo,' paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This engine delivered 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, offering a torquier experience than the previous V6. The nine-speed automatic was a significant improvement over the old CVT, enhancing acceleration and highway passing capabilities. While front-wheel drive was available only at the base level, SL and Platinum trims came with all-wheel drive by default. Visibility was generally good, though the narrow rear windshield posed some challenges. Active noise cancellation was standard, with an enhanced version available in models equipped with the Bose audio system.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a standard 3.0-liter Hurricane twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine, producing 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided smooth and effortless power, even for a vehicle weighing around 6,000 pounds. Although the high-output Hurricane engine was no longer available, the standard engine still delivered ample performance. A range-extended electric powertrain was also slated for 2026, offering an estimated 647 hp and 620 lb-ft of torque. Despite its large size, the Grand Wagoneer was surprisingly agile and absorbed road imperfections well. The cabin remained quiet, and the seats were comfortable for extended drives.

The 2025 Nissan Murano continued to offer impressive comfort features, with standard heated and power-adjustable front seats. The Platinum trim added massage functionality, though heated seat settings were only accessible through the screen. Both rows featured Nissan's Zero Gravity seats, providing comfort despite the second row's firmer feel. Interior dimensions were a mixed bag, with improved front leg and headroom but reduced second-row legroom. Cargo volume was competitive, with 32.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet with seats folded. A power liftgate was standard, with foot activation available on the Platinum trim.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer excelled as a people mover, offering three rows with ample leg and hip room. The optional second-row bench seat allowed for up to eight passengers, with the third row accommodating three people comfortably. Cargo space was 27.9 cubic feet with the third row in use, expandable to 42.6 cubic feet in the long-wheelbase version. The Grand Wagoneer could tow up to 10,000 pounds when properly equipped. Standard features included three-zone automatic climate controls and heated-and-ventilated front seats, with the Upland trim offering off-road capabilities like Quadra-Lift air suspension and skid plates.

The 2025 Nissan Murano was well-equipped with tech features, including wireless charging, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The dual 12.3-inch screens housed infotainment and driver-information displays, with four USB type C ports standard. The SL trim added Google Built-In, a 10-speaker Bose audio system, and a 64-color ambient lighting system. The Murano Platinum included a head-up display, a feature not standard even on the Armada's Platinum Reserve trim.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer came standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital cluster, and a wireless phone charger. Higher trims offered a front console cooler, digital rearview mirror, a 23-speaker McIntosh sound system, and four-zone climate controls. However, the wireless phone charger had issues with overheating, and the 12-inch infotainment screen felt small for the vehicle's size. Adjustable pedals were no longer available for 2026, a feature still offered by competitors like the Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition.

The 2025 Nissan Murano came standard with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, including lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. ProPILOT Assist was added, with SL and Platinum trims featuring a more advanced version that used navigation data to adjust speed. The third-gen Murano earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, and the new model added a passenger's side airbag and reinforced seating. SL and Platinum trims also included a 3D Intelligent Around View Monitor and Invisible Hood View.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was equipped with safety features like lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitors. Available features included automated parking assist, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera system. The Grand Wagoneer received mixed ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with lower scores in the updated moderate front overlap test. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star safety rating.