Not all SUVs are built the same. Some are designed specifically for off-roading like the Toyota 4Runner or for performance like the Mazda CX-5. Others are designed as premium SUVs and sport unique exterior and interior styling, features, comfort – and a higher price tag. And if a premium SUV is what you’re looking for, you should make sure you’re getting the best one of these SUVs for the premium price you pay. Among your options in the two-row premium SUV category are the 2023 Nissan Murano and the 2023 Chevy Blazer. Which is the better SUV?

Which is more affordable?

The 2023 Nissan Murano comes with a starting MSRP of $33,660 for the Murano S FWD base model. If you’re looking for the top-level trim, you’ll shell out $46,910 for the Nissan Murano Platinum AWD. Of course, these prices don’t include the various available options, packages, and features you may want, nor taxes and dealer fees. So, you may expect to spend a few thousand extras over and above that price.

The base trim of the 2023 Chevrolet Blazer comes with a starting MSRP of $35,100. If you opt for the Chevy Blazer Premier FWD with the most powerful engine option, you’ll be paying $44,695 (again, before taxes, fees, and optional upgrades). The pricing range between the two vehicles is comparable, but the better premium SUV on price depends on your budget.

The Nissan Murano is better if you want to keep your costs low with a base model premium SUV. But if you want to go all out, you’ll spend a couple thousand less with the top-level Chevy Blazer trim.

Of course, depending on how you soup up either vehicle with optional features and amenities, you could spend more on a Blazer Premier than on a Murano Platinum.

Which is more powerful?

No matter which trim level you purchase, the 2023 Nissan Murano comes with a standard 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine that produces 260 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. These are respectable numbers for the segment and more than enough horsepower to offer Murano’s solid performance, at least according to Car and Driver. The V6 is paired with a CVT, and while FWD is standard, you can get a Murano with AWD for an extra cost.

Unlike the Murano, the 2023 Chevy Blazer comes with two powertrain options. Your base model LT and 2LT come with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 228 hp, while 3LT trims and above come with a 3.6-liter V-6 that generates 308 hp. Both come with either FWD or AWD and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Car and Driver reviewers are particularly impressed with—and recommend—the 3.6-liter V6 models of the Blazer, which provide the Blazer with quick acceleration and solid handling.

It’s also worth noting that the Murano can only tow 1500 pounds, while V6 versions of the Blazer can haul up to 4,500. So in terms of power, the 3LT and above trims of the Chevy Blazer are superior to the Nissan Murano.  

Which can carry more?

SUVs are great options for prospective buyers who need space to carry stuff. Their design is ideally suited for more suitcases and equipment than you could carry in your average sedan. Unfortunately, not all SUVs sport the cargo space that makes this distinguishing feature a real selling point. Unfortunately, that’s the case for the Nissan Murano and Chevy Blazer.

When it comes to the Murano, Edmunds notes you’ll get 32.1 cu-ft of cargo space behind the second row and 67.0 cu-ft with the second row down. While, as per Car and Driver, it’s enough to fit nine suitcases, reviewers note that cargo capacity is below average for this segment. Edmunds also notes that the Blazer offers just 30.5 cu-ft of space behind the second row and 64.2 cu-ft with the second row down.

U.S. News and World Report note many 2022 SUVs feature a maximum cargo capacity of at least 69 cu-ft, such as the Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, Hyundai Tucson, Honda CR-V, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Toyota RAV4. So neither the Murano nor the Blazer excels here. But of the two, the Murano will give you more space for your weekend and vacation adventures.

Which one is better? The Murano is a good bet for budget-conscious shoppers looking for a dependable daily driver that works well for road trips. The Blazer has the goods for those looking for a bit more power and performance. It all comes down to your preferences.