The 2017 Nissan Armada ranks 6 out of 6 Large SUVs. Nissan reintroduced the Armada for the 2017 model year, and it has a quiet ride, above-average cabin quality, a powerful engine, and spacious second-row seats. However, the front seats are less roomy than in rival SUVs, and the infotainment system feels a step behind many rival systems.
Pros Powerful engine Quiet ride Quality cabin materials Sprawling second-row seats
Cons Antiquated infotainment system Subpar cargo space Disappointing first- and third-row seats
After rotting on the vine for years, the 2017 Nissan Armada's redesign brings it upscale and makes it competitive with its recently updated truck-based full-size SUV rivals. With the 2017 Armada, Nissan has adopted what is basically a U.S. version of the global Nissan Patrol SUV. The new Armada is a soul mate of the Infiniti QX80 once again, with a body-on-frame design and its eight-passenger seating. To distinguish it from the QX80, it gets new styling and new engineering, plus additional safety features.
Pros More modern looks Quiet cabin Ready power Good choice for towing Room for people and their stuff
Cons Thirsty Big and heavy Slow steering Tight third-row seat
The redesigned 2017 Nissan Armada is a substantial improvement over the vehicle it replaces. If you're looking for a big three-row SUV that can tow and venture off the beaten path but also comfortably handle the daily urban grind, the new Armada will be a great choice. After a one-year hiatus, the Nissan Armada is back for 2017. Fully redesigned, it boasts a higher quality interior, a more powerful V8 engine and a new, more chiseled look for its exterior styling.
Pros Higher-quality cabin that betters most competitors Smooth and quiet V8 engine More comfortable and less trucklike to drive than some rival SUVs Plenty of ground clearance for off-road adventures.
Cons Fuel economy is poor, even for this class of vehicle Third-row seat is less spacious and comfortable than those of some SUV and crossover rivals Heavy steering in parking lots.
The 2017 Infiniti QX80 ranks 4 out of 8 Luxury Large SUVs. Despite a few weaknesses, the 2017 Infiniti QX80's strong performance, low base price, and elegant, well-equipped interior should meet your needs. However, it has the same disadvantage as most large SUVs: a cramped third row. Many of its rivals also use less fuel.
Pros Large cargo area Easy-to-use infotainment system High-quality interior Exciting acceleration
Cons Cramped third row Poor fuel economy
The 2017 Infiniti QX80's handling and fuel economy suffer for its size and weight, but it combines power, seating for eight, and towing capability in a luxurious package. The Infiniti QX80 is full-size traditional body-on-frame SUV that competes at the high end of the market. Formerly known as the QX56, the QX80's mechanicals might no longer be in vogue. All three models—QX80, QX80 AWD, and QX80 Limited—offer seating for up to eight and big V-8 power. A top rival for the Cadillac Escalade, the QX80 is the best Infiniti SUV to date and is superior to at least a few of its competitors.
Pros An upscale cabin Tough off-roading ability A genuine SUV Strong powertrain performance
Cons Finger-light steering Very thirsty Oversize front end a turnoff to some Gaudy fender vents
For some shoppers, a minivan just doesn't have the right capabilities. Even large, crossover-based SUVs won't do the trick. That's where hulking three-row, luxury vehicles such as the 2017 Infiniti QX80 come into play. With real towing power, high-quality interior appointments and a big-SUV attitude, the QX80 can shuttle your whole crew, and it can do it with style.Trailer sway control is now standard across the lineup. In-car Wi-Fi is now part of the optional Theater Package.
Pros Well-trimmed cabin that looks and feels truly luxurious Powerful V8 delivers strong acceleration and a high tow rating Tightly controlled handling that makes it feel smaller from behind the wheel
Cons Third-row seat is a tight fit for adults Ride quality gets choppy with optional 22-inch wheels
