Here's something you may not know. The platform under the Murano is shared with the 350Z and G35. So is the 3.5L VQ engine.

For an SUV, a nice choice. Dodge Durangos and Jeeps are nice, but the Murano actually puts a dab of "sport" in the phrase "Sport Utility Vehicle". It's a good choice for people who enjoy driving. Good alternatives IMO would include the base Caddy SRX and Acura MDX. From experience, I've also been impressed with the Lexus RX. It's as smooth as butter in every way, and is built finer than a grandfather clock. I enjoyed driving it at a modest pace around town. Alas, the Acura, Caddy, and Lexus all command a price premium. But if you are talking about a loaded Murano, it might just overlap some dressed down luxury SUV's.

As a fellow Michigander, my advice is to drive slow and leave early on snowy days. Your Murano might have better traction in the snow than say, a BMW 3 series, but it won't get you through "the Mixing Bowl" (I-696) any quicker. Sure, Michigan winters suck. But it sure is a nice place to spend the other three seasons.