Does the Murano's fuel efficiency make it a good choice over a hybrid SUV?

With fuel prices ever changing and environmental concerns growing, buyers are talking more about the efficiency of SUVs. The V6 Nissan Murano occupies an interesting position. The power is more than many four-cylinder SUVs but less efficient than the growing number of hybrid options. Consequently, one wonders if its performance and driving experience compensate for its greater fuel consumption than its hybrid rivals. Given the Murano's relatively small increase in fuel economy, coupled with the real world performance of the Murano's V6 at nearly or above projected fuel economy levels, it behooves potential buyers to consider the savings of a true hybrid as well as the feeling and performance of the V6 over a typical hybrid powertrain. This question aims to determine if the Murano's combination of power and efficiency has any place in a market that is growing more and more hybrid, and what sort of drivers will still prefer its traditional powertrain.