Which is the best 7-seater suv? nissan armada vs ford explorer put to the test

In the realm of full-size SUVs, two titans stand tall: the Nissan Armada and the Ford Explorer. Both vehicles boast impressive capabilities, spacious interiors, and advanced features. But which one emerges victorious in a head-to-head comparison? In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the depths of the Nissan Armada vs. Explorer debate, examining their key attributes to determine which SUV reigns supreme.

Power and Performance: A Tale of Two Engines

Under the hood, the Nissan Armada and Ford Explorer offer distinct powertrains. The Armada features a mighty 5.6-liter V8 engine that unleashes 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. This brute force translates into a towing capacity of up to 8,500 pounds, making it an ideal choice for hauling heavy loads.

In contrast, the Ford Explorer boasts a more fuel-efficient 3.3-liter V6 engine that generates 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. While less powerful than the Armada, the Explorer’s V6 provides ample power for daily driving and can tow up to 5,600 pounds.

Fuel Economy: Efficiency vs. Performance

Fuel economy is a crucial factor for full-size SUVs. The Nissan Armada returns an estimated 14 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway, while the Ford Explorer achieves 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The Explorer’s superior fuel economy gives it a clear advantage in this category, especially for those who prioritize efficiency.

Interior Space: Room for the Whole Crew

Both the Nissan Armada and Ford Explorer offer spacious interiors with ample seating for up to eight passengers. The Armada boasts a generous 167 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, while the Explorer provides a slightly smaller 87.8 cubic feet. However, the Explorer’s third row of seats offers more legroom and headroom than the Armada’s, making it a more comfortable choice for taller passengers.

Technology and Features: A Symphony of Innovation

The Nissan Armada and Ford Explorer are packed with advanced technology and features. The Armada features a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. It also offers a suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

The Explorer counters with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with SYNC 4 software. It also boasts a comprehensive list of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane centering assist, and evasive steering assist. Both vehicles offer additional features such as panoramic sunroofs, heated and cooled seats, and premium audio systems.

Off-Road Prowess: Conquering the Untamed

For those who venture off the beaten path, the Nissan Armada and Ford Explorer offer different levels of off-road capability. The Armada features a four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case and hill descent control. It also offers a Pro-4X trim level with enhanced off-road suspension and skid plates.

The Explorer, on the other hand, offers a more limited off-road experience. Its four-wheel-drive system includes a terrain management system with different modes for various conditions. However, it lacks a low-range transfer case and dedicated off-road suspension.

Price and Value: A Balancing Act

The Nissan Armada and Ford Explorer come with comparable price tags. The Armada starts at $50,090, while the Explorer starts at $36,675. However, the Armada offers a more powerful engine and a more spacious interior, while the Explorer boasts superior fuel economy and more advanced safety features. Ultimately, the best value proposition depends on the individual’s priorities and budget.

Takeaways: A Matter of Priorities

In the battle of Nissan Armada vs. Explorer, there is no clear-cut winner. Both SUVs offer unique strengths and weaknesses, catering to different needs and preferences. If raw power, towing capacity, and off-road capability are paramount, the Nissan Armada emerges as the superior choice. However, if fuel efficiency, advanced safety features, and a comfortable third row of seats are prioritized, the Ford Explorer proves to be a more well-rounded option. Ultimately, the decision depends on the specific requirements and desires of the individual buyer.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
The Nissan Armada has a higher towing capacity of up to 8,500 pounds, compared to the Ford Explorer‘s 5,600 pounds.

2. Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
The Ford Explorer is more fuel-efficient, returning an estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, compared to the Nissan Armada‘s 14 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.

3. Which vehicle has more advanced safety features?
Both vehicles offer comprehensive safety features, but the Ford Explorer has a slight edge with features such as adaptive cruise control, lane centering assist, and evasive steering assist.

4. Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
The Nissan Armada has a more spacious interior with 167 cubic feet of cargo space, compared to the Ford Explorer’s 87.8 cubic feet.

5. Which vehicle is better for off-roading?
The Nissan Armada has better off-road capabilities with a four-wheel-drive system, low-range transfer case, and hill descent control. The Ford Explorer has a more limited off-road experience.