LOOKY LOOKY LOOKY
In all honesty ... I think I can give you the BEST perspective here!!
Why? Cuz I currently have BOTH!
I have a 2002 Pathfinder SE /w Roof, and a 2005 Murano SL /w AWD.
Here's the raw / unbiased opinion.
Advantages
Pathfinder:
1) Far superior AWD, the ATTESA system is much more advanced, a better in all kinds of weather than the Murano's simple AWD.
2) Off-road capability bottom line, Pathy IS a real SUV.
3) 20 pounds more torque (truthfully can't feel it, tranny robs it)
4) Has a larger trunk space than the Murano, due to the MO's round butt.
5) Better for towing
6) Looks more like a truck (for the certain rugged days haha)
7) Better looking gauges, the MO's yellow / orange gauges are still wierd to me.
Murano:
1) Far better ON-road manners, feels more like a sports sedan, than a truck.
2) CVT just plain rocks, never have to wait for the tranny to shift, and you are ALWAYS in the engines powerband. MUCH better fuel economy too!
3) Much more Interior room, both front AND rear seats.

4) Seating position is more comfortable like a sedan, whereas the Pathfinder, everyone sits their calfs not really touching the seat (hard to explain)
5) Faster than the Pathfinder due to its tranny and weight.
6) Better Bose sound system, the one in the Pathfinder is CRAP!
7) Doesn't look like a truck, very attractive shape.
8) Much better interior ergonomics.
9) Many more storage spaces in the trunk and cabin.
10) CAN BE TRACKED

, haha
Bottom line ... the MO is more civilized! Can't go wrong!
-E