With a full redesign for the Murano due for 2014 or '15, the 2013 version of Nissan’s midsize SUV remains virtually unchanged from last year’s model. However, Nissan has made blind-spot warning moving-object detection systems available as options for all trim levels, while SV trims now get an auto-dimming rear-view mirror as standard equipment.

Buyers looking to purchase a 2013 Nissan Murano have 5 trim levels to choose from, each of which is available with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD): S, SV, SL, LE and Platinum Edition. All come factory equipped with Nissan’s VQ35DE engine, a 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve direct-injected V6 engine paired with an Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) that together make 260 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. With regular gasoline, FWD trims are estimated to get 18 mpg city/23 highway, while AWD trims are expected to reach 18/24. The Murano has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and can carry up to 31.6 cubic feet of cargo with the back seats up—or 64 cubic feet with back seats down.

The 4-door, 5-passenger 2013 Nissan Murano S trims come with dual-zone automatic temperature control, steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, power windows, power locks, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, leather-wrapped gearshift knob, cloth seating surfaces, 6-way manual driver’s seat with lumbar support, 4-way manual front passenger seat, 6-speaker audio system with AM/FM radio and in-dash 6-CD changer with MP3/WMA playback capability, a rear intermittent wiper, dual power exterior mirrors, LED taillights and 18-inch 5-split spoke aluminum alloy wheels with all-season tires.

Upgrading to an SV trim adds or substitutes an 8-way power driver’s seat with lumbar, 4-way power front passenger seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, vehicle information center with 7-inch QVGA monitor, Bluetooth hands-free system, automatic on/off headlights and dual-panel moonroof. Buyers selecting an SL trim will find they also get an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with digital compass, leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, 9-speaker digital Bose AM/FM/CD audio system with dual subwoofers, dual heated power exterior mirrors and a power liftgate. LE trims have HID bi-functional xenon projector headlights and 20-inch 5-split-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with all-season tires.

The Platinum Edition trims have the Nissan hard-drive-based navigation system with a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column, heated rear seats, 7-inch VGA touchscreen monitor and voice recognition, rear bumper protector, 20-inch 7-spoke aluminum alloy wheels and all-season tires. All trim levels except S come with fog lights. The navigation package is available as an option for SL trims.

As with all Nissan vehicles, the 2013 Murano comes with Nissan's advanced airbag system, which features dual-stage supplemental front airbags, driver's and front passenger seat-mounted side-impact supplemental airbags and roof-mounted curtain supplemental airbags for side impact and rollover head protection. All 2013 Muranos also get 4-wheel vented disc brakes with an antilock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, vehicle dynamic control with a traction control system, an energy-absorbing steering column and tire pressure monitoring system. All except S trims come with fog lights and a rear-view monitor.

Listening to current owners and present buyers, the 2013 Nissan Murano seems to have a lot to offer, in regard to both interior styling and its ability to handle the road. Many drivers refer to the Murano as being nimble with just enough power to let you know you're driving an SUV. They also mention that they are able to get good fuel mileage out of the Murano.

The 2013 Nissan Murano has a look that sets it apart from the competition in the midsize crossover SUV market, which includes the Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Highlander. The Murano's powertrain and handling are similar to those of its competitors, as is its price. It all comes down to whether you want to look like the crowd or stand out from it. If you'd rather stand out, the Murano is the SUV for you.