In today’s market, the selection of two-row mid-size SUVs is vast, making it challenging to navigate the sea of options. These models offer a blend of interior space, utility, and fuel efficiency without veering into the realm of overwhelming size. Among the myriad choices, the 2025 models of the Chevy Blazer, Honda Passport, and Nissan Murano stand out as popular contenders in this competitive class.
Powertrains: A Modern Shift
In the realm of powertrains, the 2025 Nissan Murano underwent significant changes in its recent update. The traditional V-6 engine and continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) were replaced with a more contemporary powertrain. Nissan introduced a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with variable compression and variable displacement, known as the VC-Turbo. This powertrain churns out 241 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission for smoother operation. While front-wheel drive comes standard, all-wheel drive is also available as an option.
On the other hand, the Honda Passport boasts a reliable 3.5-liter V-6 engine that delivers a seamless 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, this setup comes standard with a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system. Looking ahead to 2026, Honda is gearing up to introduce a new Passport model equipped with an updated V-6 powertrain and a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Chevy Blazer offers a unique level of versatility with two distinct powertrain options. The base model features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, an optional 3.6-liter V-6 engine is available, boasting a robust 308 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and offer a choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Notably, Chevrolet also presents the Blazer EV, which, despite its shared moniker, is a separate model within a similar size range.
Fuel Efficiency: A Balancing Act
Despite its updated powertrain geared toward efficiency, the 2025 Nissan Murano maintains a fuel economy rating of 23 mpg combined, aligning with last year’s V-6 model. City and highway ratings stand at 21 and 27 mpg, respectively, for both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations.
In contrast, the Honda Passport falls slightly behind in fuel efficiency, offering 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with its V-6 engine.
The 2025 Chevy Blazer’s fuel economy ratings position it favorably among its competitors. The four-cylinder model achieves 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway in front-wheel-drive guise. Opting for all-wheel drive nudges the highway figure down slightly, with ratings of 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. Meanwhile, the V-6 version of the Blazer records 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway in EPA testing for front-drive models. All-wheel-drive V-6 variants exhibit similar highway efficiency, with a city rating of 18 mpg. In a real-world scenario, an all-wheel-drive V-6 Blazer managed to achieve 24 mpg in a Car and Driver’s 75-mph highway fuel-economy test.
Interior and Cargo: Room to Roam
All three contenders in this segment offer seating for up to five passengers across two rows, omitting the availability of a third-row option. The Nissan Murano prioritizes first-row passenger space with 44.3 inches of legroom up front and 36.3 inches in the rear. In contrast, the Chevy Blazer and Honda Passport provide more balanced accommodations, offering approximately 41 inches of legroom in the front and an identical 39.6 inches in the rear.
When it comes to cargo capacity with all seats in place, the Honda Passport reigns supreme, boasting a generous 41.2 cubic feet of space. The Nissan Murano follows with 32.9 cubic feet, while the Chevy Blazer offers 30.5 cubic feet. Folding down the second row reshuffles the rankings: the Passport leads with 77.7 cubic feet (77.5 for the Black Edition trim), followed by the Blazer with 64.2 cubic feet and the Murano with 63.5 cubic feet. While all three models offer respectable cargo space, the Honda Passport stands out for those seeking maximum storage capacity.
Towing: A Weighty Decision
For those with light recreational towing needs, each model offers sufficient capacity to handle tasks such as towing a pop-up camper, small watercraft, or a utility trailer. The Honda Passport leads the pack with a 5000-pound towing capacity, while the 2.0-liter Blazer variants range from 1500 to 3250 pounds, depending on equipment. The V-6 Blazer models can tow between 1500 and 4500 pounds. In contrast, the Nissan Murano falls short with a towing capacity limited to 1500 pounds.
Price: The Bottom Line
Among the trio, the Chevy Blazer emerges as the most affordable option, albeit with the lowest power output. The Blazer 2LT with front-wheel drive and the 2.0-liter engine kicks off at $36,795, with an additional $2700 for the all-wheel-drive variant. Opting for the V-6 Blazer requires a starting price of $44,395 for the front-drive RS model, with an extra $2900 for the all-wheel-drive version.
The 2025 Murano SV FWD comes in at $41,860, with the all-wheel-drive version commanding a mere $1000 more. The Honda Passport EX-L starts at $43,850, with all models equipped with all-wheel drive from the get-go, making the Passport slightly more cost-effective than the V-6 Blazer.
In essence, the mid-size SUV segment offers a multitude of choices catering to a diverse array of needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize power, efficiency, cargo capacity, or towing capabilities, the Chevy Blazer, Honda Passport, and Nissan Murano present compelling options in this competitive landscape. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, these models embody the spirit of innovation, blending practicality with performance to meet the demands of modern drivers.
