Nissan has given the Murano's safety game a boost for 2021 by making its previously optional suite of driver-assistance features standard across the range. Called Safety Shield 360, this package of features includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beams, among others. Gone is the SV Premium package and in its place Nissan will offer the Special Edition package, which includes a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree exterior camera system, faux-leather upholstery, heated front seats, and 20-inch wheels.
PROS Bold styling, well-appointed interior, lots of standard driver-assistance tech.
CONS Blasé driving dynamics, CVT is unrefined, low towing capacity.
The 2021 Nissan Murano’s windswept shape still looks good and safety is strong, but it’s showing its age.
PROS Unique style Comfy front seats Plush ride Lots of active safety gear
CONS So-so cargo capacity Interior and tech show their age Surprisingly thirsty Not as well-equipped as some rivals
The 2021 Honda Passport stamps its own personality from Pilot running gear, with a slight tilt in the off-road direction.
Pros Big interior space Refined highway driver Works fine in moderate off-roading Standard safety gear
Cons 9-speed automatic gets confused Not much bigger than CR-V The adventure’s missing from the look No low-ratio four-wheeling
The 2021 Honda Passport comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed shiftable automatic.All trims now have the 8-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard equipment.
Pros Spacious interior with lots of passenger space Comfortable front seats Many clever storage compartments
Cons Adaptive cruise control is only available over 20 mph Driver's seat might be positioned a little high for some people
The 2021 Passport only receives a small update for the new model year, with base models adding a newly standard 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system versus the old 5.0-inch display. The rest of the lineup is unchanged except for a small increase in starting prices.
Pros Spacious interior for people and cargo, powerful V-6 engine, plenty of standard safety features.
Cons Base model isn’t well equipped, occasional rough ride, not so stylish.
