Most SUVs look similar, but a few that automakers try to make unique in terms of presentation or build. For example, the Toyota 4Runner and certain Mazda vehicles (like the CX-5 and CX-50) are marketed as more capable off-roaders than their competition. The Dodge Durango belongs to another underrepresented category: premium (not to be confused with luxury) SUVs.

These SUVs are usually more expensive than their rivals and sometimes aren’t the most practical options. They still stand out with their unique exteriors, optional features, and comfortable and aesthetically pleasing interiors. Comparing the 2022 Dodge Durango to the 2023 Nissan Murano, we discovered five reasons why the Durango is the better premium SUV.

1. More seating inside the Dodge Durango

According to Nissan, the Murano SUV only seats five passengers. The Dodge Durango has a third row, meaning it can sit up to seven riders at a time. If buyers prefer the available captain’s chairs, that seating capacity is reduced to six.

Both vehicles come with standard cloth upholstery, with the option for upgrading to leather. The Nissan Murano also offers synthetic leather seats. However, while the Durango technically can shuttle more people, Car and Driver says that the two back rows aren’t the most accommodating.

2. The Durango has more horsepower and torque

The 2022 Dodge Durango comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 295 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The Durango also offers two V8 engines, the most powerful one making 475 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. Each one is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Nissan only gave the Murano one powertrain option, a V6 engine that makes 260 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. It comes paired with a CVT that, according to Car and Driver, is prone to a lot of noise under hard acceleration.

Car and Driver says that the Murano’s 0 to 60 mph acceleration times range between 7.3-7.5 seconds. The Dodge Durango reached that speed in only 6.2 seconds. While both cars have smooth ride qualities, the Durango’s optional V8s considerably up the fun factor.

3. More payload and towing capacity than the Nissan Murano

Stellantis boasts that every Dodge Durango can tow 6,200 lbs. Stellantis promises that with the proper towing equipment, a Durango with the brawniest engine has an 8,700-lb towing capacity. Meanwhile, the Nissan Murano can only tow a measly 1,500 lbs.

According to Edmunds, the Dodge Durango has a maximum payload capacity of 1,400 lbs. Meanwhile, the Nissan Murano can only carry 1,245 pounds inside.

4. More maximum cargo space in the Durango

Dodge boasts that the Durango SUV has 85 cubic ft of cargo space with every rear seat folded down. Even with the third row folded, you still get over 43 cubic ft of space. Additionally, there are over 17 cubic ft of space behind the Durango’s third row.

In comparison, the Nissan Murano only has 67 cubic ft of total storage space. Behind the rear seats, you get 32 cubic ft of cargo space.

5. More ground clearance

The Dodge Durango has approximately 8.1 inches of ground clearance, but the Nissan Murano’s ground clearance is only 6.9 inches. While the Murano has the highest departure angle between the two SUVs, Edmunds says that this SUV’s approach angle is lower. 

Neither SUV is suitable for intense off-roading, though both come with optional AWD. We’d probably stick with the Dodge Durango for light adventures on the trail because of its higher torque output and towing capacity. The Durango is also a better daily driver for families with its generous interior dimensions.