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Are you interested in purchasing the latest version of Nissan‘s popular midsize SUV? The 2023 Nissan Murano has a lot to offer, but it hasn’t changed much for the new model year. There are a few trim levels in the lineup, all of which are viable options. However, one is more popular than the rest among consumers. Contrarily, one expert doesn’t recommend the most popular 2023 Nissan Murano. Which of the Murano trims provides the most value?

These affordable midsize SUVs for 2023 include the Nissan Murano most popular trim
A 2023 Nissan Murano | Nissan

According to Edmunds, the most popular 2023 Nissan Murano trim is the SV model. Starting at $38,495, it’s the second-cheapest model, only above the base S trim in the lineup. Why do so many more buyers want the SV over the cheapest Murano? Mainly, the SV trim adds desirable amenities many buyers can’t go without. Additionally, the price isn’t much higher than the lesser version of the midsize SUV. Roughly $3,500 separates the two trims, but the additional equipment is plentiful.

For example, the Murano SV has a remote engine start, LED foglights, heated mirrors, roof rails, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated/power-adjustable front seats, simulated leather upholstery, front parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control. Moreover, it’s the first model that can get the Midnight Edition optional package. It comes with 20-inch black wheels and blacked-out exterior styling elements, like a black grille, roof rails, and more.

Next, front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are available for any model in the lineup. Furthermore, there is only one engine, a 3.5-liter V6 good for 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft. Why would anyone need to spend more when all that is included with the SV trim?

Although it sounds like it provides excellent value, Edmunds doesn’t recommend the most popular 2023 Nissan Murano SV. Instead, the publication suggests the SL trim. It’s another step up in the Murano lineup, starting at $42,455. It’s the first of two models in the midsize SUV‘s lineup to cross the $40K threshold. Since we already know the engine, drivetrain, and more are the same as lower trims, why does the SL stand out from the rest?

Edmunds says it’s the one to buy because “It swaps out the SV’s imitation leather upholstery for the real thing and adds a hands-free liftgate, navigation, and an upgraded sound system.”

Other equipment included with the SL model is 20-inch wheels, driver’s seat memory, ambient interior lighting, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, navigation, and a surround-view camera. The SL is clearly tech-heavy and turns the Murano into a much more luxurious SUV. Furthermore, a panoramic sunroof is also available as a standalone option for the SL trim.

Which 2023 Nissan Murano is best?

Both 2023 Nissan Murano mid-tier trims are surprisingly well-equipped. While the most popular trim is excellent, we struggle to argue with the expert recommending the SL model instead. It provides so much value without breaking the bank. For the price of the SV trim, you’re already so close to the SL price, which adds a lot more equipment. Since the same engine is standard throughout the lineup, there’s not much reason to spend the maximum price for the Platinum model. Either the SV or SL is the way to go, but we’d tough out the price of the SL to ensure every driver gets the most value out of their new Murano midsize SUV.

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Section Editor - SUVs

Tim Harding

Having spent half a decade managing the reconditioning and marketing processes for upwards of 400 vehicles monthly, Tim is no stranger to the automotive industry. He has a deep understanding of the many different types of vehicles on the road today and brings to the table valuable insight into the industry itself.

Tim earned an Associate’s in English and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a Marketing specialization from Ashford University. Tim joined MotorBiscuit as an Autos Writer in 2021, and his work can also be seen at Gamepur, Overtime Heroics, and Pro Game Guides.

Tim is most inspired by the constantly changing automotive industry. He looks forward to a future when cars, particularly electric vehicles, look and operate completely differently than they do today. Tim’s content draws on this inspiration while also providing MotorBiscuit readers with useful consumer advice.