2026 Nissan Murano vs. Chevrolet Equinox vs. Subaru Outback: Which SUV Is Right for You?

If you’re shopping for a midsize SUV near Leominster or Fitchburg, three names come up regularly: the 2026 Nissan Murano, the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox, and the 2026 Subaru Outback. Each one occupies a different price point, comes with different tradeoffs, and is genuinely built for a different type of buyer. This comparison covers each category honestly, names the winner in each, and explains why the Murano is the right call for buyers who prioritize refinement over frugality and daily driving experience over maximum utility.

Engine and Power

The powertrain gap between these three is the most immediate difference in daily driving. The 2026 Murano runs a 2.0L VC-Turbo four-cylinder producing 241 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic. The 2026 Equinox uses a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder rated at 175 horsepower: 66 fewer horses than the Murano. The 2026 Outback’s standard engine is a 2.5L naturally aspirated flat-four at 180 horsepower, though Outback XT trims upgrade to a 2.4L turbo at 260 horsepower. That turbo Outback matches Murano numbers, but it starts at $44,365 (nearly $3,000 more than the Murano SV) so the comparison stops being equivalent.

Verdict: Murano. At any matched price point, the Murano delivers more power. You get the 241-horsepower engine on the entry SV; neither competitor gives you comparable output without a significant trim premium.

Standard All-Wheel Drive

For buyers in central Massachusetts, AWD isn’t optional — it’s the expectation. The Murano includes standard AWD across every trim: SV, SL, and Platinum. You don’t choose it; it’s there. The Outback takes the same approach — Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD is standard on all six of its configurations. The Equinox handles this differently: AWD is an upcharge on every trim, with front-wheel drive as the starting point. Beyond the added cost, opting for FWD on the Equinox means a CVT transmission and a towing rating of just 800 pounds. The AWD Equinox steps up to an eight-speed automatic and 1,500 pounds of tow capacity — but you’re paying extra to get there, and the starting price comparison shifts accordingly.

Verdict: Murano and Outback are equal; Equinox falls short. Murano and Outback both include standard AWD with no upcharge required. The Equinox requires extra spend to reach comparable all-weather capability.

Interior, Technology, and Comfort

This is the category that most clearly separates the Murano from the other two. The Murano SL ($46,760 MSRP) includes a dual-row panoramic moonroof, a ten-speaker Bose Premium Audio System, Google built-in with Maps and Assistant, an HD Enhanced Intelligent Around View Monitor, heated steering wheel, driver memory seat, and stop-and-go adaptive cruise. The Platinum adds climate-controlled front seats, massaging front seats, semi-aniline quilted leather, and heated rear seats standard. ProPILOT Assist with hands-on lane centering is included on every single Murano trim, including the entry SV — a genuine differentiator at this price range.

The Outback Limited ($41,715) is the closest price-comparable configuration and arrives well-equipped with its own modern infotainment system and standard EyeSight driver-assistance. The cabin is clean and practical. But the Outback doesn’t offer massaging seats, doesn’t include Bose audio at any trim, and its interior skews more utility-functional than luxury-adjacent. It’s a well-built vehicle that doesn’t try to feel like a near-luxury SUV. The Murano does.

The Equinox, at its RS trim ceiling of $33,600, includes a solid 11.3-inch infotainment display with Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the standard Chevy Safety Assist package. For the price, it’s a capable and modern interior. But it isn’t competing on the same refinement level as the Murano SL or Outback Limited — and it isn’t trying to. Those are different market conversations.

Verdict: Murano. At comparable spending, the Murano’s interior quality, available comfort features, and standard ProPILOT lane centering represent a clear step up over both competitors.

Pricing in Context

Here is the category where honesty matters most in a three-way comparison. These three vehicles do not share the same price tier.

• 2026 Chevrolet Equinox (LT): $28,600 MSRP before destination
• 2026 Subaru Outback (Premium): $34,995 MSRP before destination
• 2026 Nissan Murano (SV): $41,670 MSRP before destination

The Murano costs more at every point of comparison. What you’re buying at that price is a stronger engine on the base trim, standard AWD without an upcharge, a more refined cabin, and more sophisticated standard driver-assistance technology. The Equinox is a legitimate choice for buyers for whom budget is the primary decision driver — at $28,600, it offers genuine value and modern features. The Outback Limited ($41,715) overlaps closely with the Murano SV and represents the most honest head-to-head in this group; at that price point, the Murano’s powertrain advantage and interior quality become the deciding factors. Ron Bouchard Nissan regularly runs dealer specials and incentives on Murano inventory in Lancaster that can make the gap narrower than the sticker suggests.

Verdict: Price-transparent. Equinox wins on budget. Murano and Outback at equivalent trims are a genuine contest — and the Murano wins it on power and cabin refinement.

Cargo and Towing

The Outback earns its reputation here. With up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped and 34.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, it’s the most practical hauler in this group by a meaningful margin. If you tow a boat, a trailer, or anything heavier than outdoor furniture, the Outback is the honest answer among these three. The Murano and Equinox both top out at 1,500 pounds of towing. Behind the rear seats, the Murano carries 32.9 cubic feet and the Equinox holds 29.8 — close, with the Murano slightly ahead.

Verdict: Outback wins on towing and rear cargo. Murano edges the Equinox. Buyers whose primary requirements include hauling capacity should weigh the Outback seriously. For buyers who don’t tow and whose cargo needs are typical family SUV use, the Murano’s small cargo deficit versus the Outback won’t register in daily life.

Why Choose the 2026 Nissan Murano

Most buyers cross-shopping these three aren’t primarily looking for a tow vehicle or the lowest possible monthly payment. They’re looking for a midsize SUV that drives and feels premium without carrying a luxury-brand badge and price. That is specifically the segment the Murano occupies, and it executes on it well.

Against the Equinox: the Murano is more powerful, comes with standard AWD, and offers a noticeably more refined cabin. You pay more, and you get more. Against the Outback: the Murano matches it on AWD availability, delivers more cabin luxury at the SL and Platinum levels, and includes ProPILOT Assist standard. The Outback is the better call if towing is a real requirement. For buyers optimizing on the day-to-day quality of the drive and the interior experience, the Murano is the stronger vehicle.

For shoppers in the Gardner, Leominster, and Fitchburg area, Ron Bouchard Nissan in Lancaster is the right place to see the 2026 Murano in person — and the right team to help you find the trim and the deal that works.