What To Know
- The Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV, while the Xterra is a mid-size SUV.
- It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the Armada gets 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
- The Nissan Armada has a higher towing capacity of 8,500 pounds, while the Xterra has a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.
When it comes to choosing a family-friendly SUV, the Nissan Armada and Xterra stand as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a spacious interior, impressive performance, and advanced safety features. However, deciding which one best suits your needs can be a challenging task. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Nissan Armada and Xterra, helping you make an informed decision.
Size and Space
The Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV, while the Xterra is a mid-size SUV. As a result, the Armada offers significantly more space than the Xterra. It boasts three rows of seating, accommodating up to eight passengers, while the Xterra has only two rows, seating five. The Armada also provides a more generous cargo area, making it ideal for hauling bulky items.
Performance
Both the Armada and Xterra are powered by V6 engines. However, the Armada’s engine is more powerful, producing 390 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque compared to the Xterra’s 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. This difference in power translates into a more spirited driving experience in the Armada, particularly when towing or hauling heavy loads.
Off-Road Capability
If off-road adventures are a priority, the Nissan Xterra excels in this department. It features a rugged body-on-frame construction, a locking rear differential, and an advanced four-wheel drive system. The Armada, on the other hand, is more suited for on-road driving, although it does offer an all-wheel drive option for enhanced traction in slippery conditions.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is an important consideration for many SUV buyers. The Nissan Xterra has a slight advantage over the Armada in this regard. The Xterra’s smaller size and lighter weight contribute to its improved fuel efficiency. It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the Armada gets 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
Features and Technology
The Nissan Armada and Xterra offer a wide range of features and technology to enhance your driving experience. Both vehicles come standard with a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium sound system. However, the Armada offers more advanced features such as a panoramic sunroof, heated and cooled front seats, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Safety
Safety is paramount for any family vehicle. Both the Nissan Armada and Xterra have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
Price
The Nissan Armada has a higher starting price than the Xterra. The base trim of the Armada starts at around $50,000, while the Xterra starts at around $30,000. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the Armada offers more space, power, and features than the Xterra, which may justify the price difference for some buyers.
Which One Is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best choice between the Nissan Armada and Xterra depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize space, power, and advanced features, the Armada is an excellent option. However, if fuel economy, off-road capability, and a lower price point are more important to you, the Xterra is a compelling choice.
Popular Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
A: The Nissan Armada has a higher towing capacity of 8,500 pounds, while the Xterra has a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.
Q: Which vehicle has a better warranty?
A: Both the Armada and Xterra come with the same basic warranty of 3 years/36,000 miles. However, the Armada offers a longer powertrain warranty of 5 years/60,000 miles compared to the Xterra’s 5 years/100,000 miles.
Q: Which vehicle is better for families?
A: The Nissan Armada is a better choice for families due to its larger size, more spacious interior, and more advanced safety features.