1 SUV Dominates This List of ‘Best Used SUVs for Under $15K’
Shoppers for used cars and SUVs may be interested to learn that U.S. News recently released its list of the best SUVs with two rows under $15K for 2023. Impressively, the Nissan Murano took four of the top eight spots on the list. Curious to learn which Murano model years earned a mention?
The 2010 Nissan Murano placed high on the list
Out of the 128 vehicles ranked on U.S. News’ list of best SUVs with two rows for under $15,000, the 2010 Nissan Murano tied at No. 2 with the 2010 Subaru Forester and 2016 Hyundai Tucson.
This sporty SUV boasts 265 horsepower and averages 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. It’s known for the attractiveness of its interior and features standard keyless entry and ignition for the first time in this model year. The SUV can seat five, with relatively spacious back seats, which makes it an attractive choice for those wanting sufficient room for their families.
Depending on the condition, one can typically expect to snag a used 2010 Murano for around $9,000.
The 2011 Murano also scores in the top 5
If you’re looking for something a tad newer, you might want to check out the 2011 Nissan Murano, which comes in at No. 5 on the list, alongside the 2014 GMC Terrain and the 2009 Murano (which we’ll get to below). You’ll likely pay a bit more for the more recent model year: these midsize SUVs cost around $10,000.
U.S. News praises the 2011 Murano for being fun to drive and having a strong fuel economy. Like the 2010 model year, it averages 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Its engine isn’t quite as strong as the 2010 model, coming in at 260 hp. However, it does have one advantage over its predecessor: it offers more available trims, including the unique convertible Murano CrossCabriolet.
Then there’s the 2009 Nissan Murano
Those looking to save money might be interested in the 2009 Nissan Murano, especially since it ranks just as high as its 2011 counterpart. If you have around $7,000 to spare, there’s a decent chance you could walk away with one of these near-luxury SUVs.
The Murano underwent a redesign for the 2009 model year, resulting in a vehicle known for its sportiness and high-quality interior. Unsurprisingly, its specs largely mirror those of the 2010 Murano, including its fuel economy and horsepower. However, U.S. News notes a couple of inherent disadvantages in the model, including the need for premium fuel and poor rearward visibility.
Finally, the 2012 Murano rounds out the top eight
Interestingly, the Murano model that costs the most on this list also comes below the others regarding rankings. We’re talking about the 2012 Nissan Murano, which can run you anywhere from $11,000 to $15,000 and ranks No. 8 on the U.S. News list.
The 2012 Nissan Murano wins praise for its 260-265 hp engine and upscale interior. Its fuel economy also ranks similarly to the other Muranos on the list, coming in at 17-18 mpg in the city and 22-24 mpg on the highway. Where the 2012 Murano falls somewhat short is in its safety score, which U.S. News rates poorly when compared with the competition.
All in all, if you’re looking for a relatively affordable, used two-row SUV, the Nissan Murano may be one to consider. With so many of its model years appearing at the top of the U.S. News list, it must be doing something right.
