The Chevrolet Blazer and Nissan Murano are often overlooked
Automakers like Toyota tend to rule the roost when it comes to practical daily drivers and family vehicles, but there are several solid overlooked competitors out there. Among them are the Chevy Blazer and Nissan Murano, both of which are solid midsize crossovers fit for families. While they share several similarities, the Blazer and Murano have a few notable differences to take into account before you buy.
Chevrolet
Considering the 2025 model year was supposed to be its last, we’re lucky to have a 2026 Chevy Blazer, albeit with some major changes. The top-spec Premier model is no longer available, leaving the RS to fill the top spot. Several optional features and packages are also gone. As for the Nissan Murano, all-wheel drive comes standard now that the base SV FWD model has been cut from the range. There’s also a new comfort package available. On an unrelated note, Road Ethos officially launched in 2026, so be sure to visit us over there!
Nissan
1. The Blazer wins in performance and efficiency
All Blazer models come stock with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. It puts out 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and earns up to 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway when paired with front-wheel drive. You can upgrade to all-wheel drive for $2,700 on the 2LT and 3LT models, but opting for all-wheel drive in the RS trim will cost you $2,900. Models equipped with all-wheel drive lose two miles per gallon on the highway.
Chevrolet
In addition to topping the range, the RS is the only model available with a 3.6-liter V6 engine. That powerplant produces 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive models equipped with the V6 engine earn 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Upgrading to all-wheel drive reduces fuel economy by one in both categories.
The Nissan Murano comes powered by a slightly more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that pumps out 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Power is transmitted by all four wheels by a nine-speed automatic. Fuel economy is uniform across the range, coming in at 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Nissan
2. The Blazer is more than $7,000 cheaper
If you’re looking to spend less on your next new crossover, then the Blazer is the way to go. The base 2LT starts at $34,300. The Murano SV is priced from $41,670, more than $7,300 more than the Blazer. Note, however, that all Murano models come stock with all-wheel drive. If you want all-wheel drive on the Blazer, it’ll cost you between $2,700 and $2,900 extra.
Chevrolet
Chevrolet
Nissan
Nissan
The difference in price narrows a little as you move up the range. The mid-tier Blazer 3LT and Murano SL start at $39,700 and $46,760 respectively. The range-topping Blazer RS with the turbocharged engine is available from $43,600, while the Murano Platinum starts at $49,800. Equipping the Blazer with the V6 engine and trailering equipment increases the price by $1,650, bringing the total to $45,250. Adding in all-wheel drive brings the grand total to $47,500, which is still significantly cheaper than the top-end Murano.
3. The Murano leads in infotainment and connectivity
When it comes to technology, the Murano has the upper hand. Up front are two 12.3-inch touchscreen displays that are home to the infotainment system and gauge cluster. The Blazer offers a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment display and up to an eight-inch gauge cluster, depending on the model. Both crossovers include a six-speaker audio system and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Chevy
Chevy
Chevy
Both models offer an upgraded sound system. The Blazer gets an optional eight-speaker Bose premium audio setup, while a 10-speaker Bose sound system comes standard in the Murano SL and Platinum trims. The Murano also includes a wireless smartphone charging pad, a feature that will cost you extra in the Blazer.
Nissan
Nissan
Final thoughts
Chevrolet
Nissan
The 2026 Chevrolet Blazer is a great package from a value proposition, but it lacks some of the luxury amenities found in the Nissan Murano. Chevy’s crossover gives drivers more options, with two engines and a sporty RS trim. The Murano, on the other hand, wins handily when it comes to tech and comfort. While I’d personally pick the Blazer (because I have one), it’s worth giving the Murano a test drive before you make a decision.
About the author
Joseph Pudlewski
Contributing Writer, Autoblog