Head to Head - Nissan Murano v Subaru Tribeca

The Age

Saturday May 30, 2009

Richard Blackburn

NISSAN MURANOVALUEPowered and heated leather seats, sat-nav, reversing camera, Bluetooth, powered tailgate, full-size alloy spare, keyless start, electrically folding rear seat.SAFETYStability control and six airbags; active front headrests; not independently crash tested yet.ENGINEStrong acceleration but CVT transmission hesitates off the line; easier on fuel than Tribeca but likes premium unleaded.INSIDEWell appointed and spacious, with plenty of legroom and headroom in rear seats; tapered rear end and full-size spare means there's not much luggage space; good storage.HOW IT DRIVESFeels more car-like than some but bumpier on rough roads.VERDICTWell presented cabin with plenty of goodies but let down by choppy ride, lack of load space and no third-row option.SUBARU TRIBECAVALUEMore expensive but has rear entertainment system and sunroof, as well as leather powered seats, reversing camera, sat-nav and reclining rear seat.SAFETYStability control and six airbags; active front headrests; curtain airbags don't cover third row; five-star crash rating.ENGINEEngine responsive off the mark and relaxed when cruising; can sound thrashy when pushed hard; thirsty around town.INSIDEPlenty of space in front but seats are flat and no reach adjustment on steering wheel; legroom in rear seats is limited, although load area is generous.HOW IT DRIVESHandles well with precise steering; soaks up bumps better than Murano.VERDICTMore expensive but child-friendly features and bigger load area (with third-row option) make it a better family choice.

© 2009 The Age

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