The 2027 Nissan Murano and 2027 Ford Explorer give SUV shoppers two distinctive approaches to comfort, capability, and everyday versatility. At Capitol Nissan in Salem, OR, we think the Murano makes a particularly compelling choice for drivers who want a refined two-row SUV with generous standard technology and all-wheel-drive confidence. The Explorer offers a larger three-row configuration designed for families who want additional passenger capacity, while the Murano focuses its space on five passengers and an upscale, comfortable cabin. For 2027, the Murano lineup starts with the SL AWD, which means Intelligent All-Wheel Drive is included from the outset. The Ford Explorer starts with the Active, featuring standard rear-wheel drive and available Intelligent 4WD. Both SUVs also use turbocharged four-cylinder engines, automatic transmissions, and selectable driving settings, giving drivers adaptable performance for changing road conditions. Their differences become even more apparent inside. The Murano provides seating for five and 32.9 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the second row, creating a spacious layout for passengers and their belongings. The Explorer seats six as standard and can accommodate seven with an available second-row bench, making its third row an appealing feature for larger families. Both models also place digital technology prominently in the cabin, including large center displays and wireless smartphone integration. Ultimately, these SUVs serve slightly different needs. The Explorer emphasizes three-row flexibility and towing strength, while the Murano stands out with standard AWD, sophisticated styling, generous two-row space, and an impressive collection of standard comfort and driver-assistance technologies.
2027 Nissan Murano vs 2027 Ford Explorer: Design & Exterior Features
The 2027 Murano brings a sleek, contemporary profile to Salem roads, with standard 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and featuring LED headlights, LED taillights, rear privacy glass, and a power liftgate. The 2027 Explorer Active presents a more traditional three-row SUV silhouette, stretching 198.8 inches long compared with the Murano's 192.9-inch length. The Explorer complements its larger dimensions with 18-inch aluminum wheels, LED exterior lighting, black roof rails, and a power liftgate. The Murano balances its slightly smaller footprint with 8.3 inches of ground clearance and an expressive design that helps it project an upscale character. Both lineups offer additional exterior treatments on higher trims for shoppers interested in an even more distinctive appearance.
2027 Nissan Murano vs 2027 Ford Explorer: Comfort & Technology
Inside, the 2027 Murano SL AWD surrounds five passengers with standard Prima-Tex seating, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a 12.3-inch NissanConnect touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. A second 12.3-inch display serves as the Murano's digital information display, creating a modern dual-screen environment. The Explorer Active accommodates six passengers as standard and features heated front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, a 12.3-inch digital cluster, and a 13.2-inch center display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the Explorer's third row expands passenger flexibility, the Murano dedicates its two-row interior to generous five-passenger comfort and provides 44.3 inches of front legroom along with 32.9 cubic feet of cargo volume.
2027 Nissan Murano vs 2027 Ford Explorer: Performance
The standard 2027 Murano is powered by a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Intelligent All-Wheel Drive comes standard, giving Murano drivers added confidence without requiring a drivetrain upgrade. The 2027 Explorer Active uses a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder producing 300 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive; Intelligent 4WD is available. For Salem drivers prioritizing all-weather traction, the Murano's standard AWD provides an especially attractive combination of capability and convenience.
2027 Nissan Murano vs 2027 Ford Explorer: Safety
Both SUVs incorporate advanced technologies designed to add confidence to everyday driving. The 2027 Murano includes Nissan Safety Shield® 360 along with Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Automatic Braking, Intelligent Lane Intervention, and Intelligent Driver Alertness. The Murano also provides ProPILOT Assist, Intelligent Cruise Control, and an HD Enhanced Intelligent Around View Monitor as standard equipment. The 2027 Explorer Active features Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ along with technologies such as a Lane Keeping System, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera. Both SUVs provide a comprehensive approach to driver assistance, while the Murano's extensive collection of standard visibility and assistance features adds to its well-rounded appeal.
2027 Nissan Murano vs 2027 Ford Explorer: Overall Value
The 2027 Nissan Murano and 2027 Ford Explorer both bring useful strengths to the SUV segment. The Explorer is an appealing option for families who prioritize three-row seating, substantial cargo flexibility, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. The Murano takes a different approach, delivering standard Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, 20-inch wheels, heated front seats, dual 12.3-inch displays, ProPILOT Assist, and an Around View Monitor from its starting SL trim. Its five-passenger configuration also provides generous room while maintaining manageable exterior dimensions. For drivers seeking a sophisticated two-row SUV with an especially strong collection of standard features, the 2027 Murano deserves a closer look. Visit Capitol Nissan in Salem, OR, to explore the Murano and find the Nissan SUV that fits your lifestyle.
 | 2027 Nissan Murano | 2027 Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2.0-liter Turbocharged 4-cylinder | 2.3-liter Turbocharged I-4 |
| Standard Horsepower | 241 | 300 |
| Standard Torque (lb-ft) | 260 | 310 |
| Standard Transmission | 9-speed Automatic | 10-speed Automatic |
| Standard Drivetrain | Front-wheel Drive | Front-wheel Drive |
| Standard Wheels | 20-inch Aluminum | 20-inch Aluminum |
| Standard Infotainment Display Size | 12.3 Inches | 13.2 Inches |
| Standard Fuel Economy (MPG) | 21 City / 27 Highway | 20 City / 29 Highway |
| Standard Headlights | LED | LED |
| Reverse Automatic Braking | Standard | Standard |