SUVs come in many shapes and sizes, but a mere glance can tell you what they’re designed to do. For example, an SUV designed to go off-road is evident from the larger wheels and height. Another category is premium SUVs, which aren’t very practical and are usually more expensive compared to other similar size models in their brand’s catalog but offer unique looks, features, and a sense of comfort. So, what’s the best premium SUV? Let’s find out today comparing the 2023 Nissan Murano and the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport!

1. Lower price on the 2023 Nissan Murano

While there isn’t a massive price difference, the 2022 Nissan Murano is slightly cheaper than the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The Murano has an MSRP of $33,660. In comparison, the Atlas Cross Sport’s MSRP is $33,910.

That’s a price difference of $250, which may not seem like much, but if you’re on a tight budget, that can play a huge role in your decision. It’s also important to consider that this is the price for the base trim. 

The Nissan Murano has four trim levels; the S is the base trim. The SV is next, with a starting price of $38,145. The third trim level is the SL which starts at $42,105. Finally, the Platinum trim has a price tag of $46,105.

The Atlas Cross Sport has five trim levels, with the SE being the base. Next is the SEL, with a price of $44,700. The SEL R-Line is the third trim level and starts at $46,650. Fourth is the SEL R-Line Black, which costs $46,650. Finally, the SEL Premium R-Line has a price of $52,100.

2. More horsepower on baseline engine

Horsepower may not deter many people from buying a vehicle they love, but it does determine how much speed your vehicle gets. That’s why it’s a good idea to at least consider it before making a decision.

With that being said, on the base engine, the 2022 Murano produces more horsepower than the Atlas Cross Sport, according to Car and Driver. The Murano comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6 which generates 260 hp on the base engine. In comparison, Car and Driver reports the Atlas Cross Sport produces a mere 235-hp on its turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

There are other factors to consider when it comes to horsepower, such as the weight of the vehicle in question. Even so, the Nissan Murano can go from zero to 60 in 7.3 to 7.5 seconds, while the Atlas Cross Sport takes a full 7.5. 

It may not be much, but if you’re in a drag race, that 0.2 seconds will mean the difference between winning and losing. The difference in speed is more noticeable when you hit 100 mph. The Murano takes 18.8–19.4 seconds, while the Atlas Cross Sport takes 19.3 seconds.

3. More payload capacity in the 2023 Nissan Murano

Premium SUVs aren’t exactly designed to haul heavy loads. They’re more focused on looks, luxury, and status. Even so, it’s always nice to at least be able to haul something you need to get home instead of trying to negotiate with a friend or trying to hire a U-Haul.

That said, the Nissan Murano once again comes out on top. According to Edmunds, it has a maximum payload of 1,245 lbs. On the other hand, Edmunds reports that the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport has a maximum payload of 1,091 lbs. You can’t haul much at this weight limit, but you can pull items like canoes, ATVs, jet skis, and row boats, to name a few.