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 QX70 ranks 17 out of 22 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Infiniti QX70 is all about driving dynamics, offering powerful engine performance and sharp handling. However, you won't get the rear-seat or cargo space that many other SUVs offer. Though tech features are user-friendly, the interior design looks dated compared to rivals.
Pros Powerful engine Engaging handling User-friendly infotainment system
Cons Below-average cargo capacity Cramped rear seats Some outdated tech features and design touches
A new Limited package replaces last year's Deluxe Touring option and adds some cosmetic upgrades, but otherwise the QX70 returns unchanged. The 2017 Infiniti QX70 is a performance SUV that gives you more sport than utility. It also has unique styling and a luxurious interior. But after several years on the market, it's beginning to show its age against newer competitors.
Pros Sharp handling that makes it feel more like a sport sedan than a tall SUV Plenty of passing power from the standard V6 engine Well-trimmed interior has high-quality materials throughout.
Cons Less forgiving over rough surfaces than most luxury SUVs Rear passenger and cargo space are small for the class Technology interface is noticeably dated compared to newer competitors Only one engine option offered.
It's starting to look and feel dated, but the QX70 provides a healthy dose of thrills and, surprisingly, value. Formerly called the FX, the 2017 Infiniti QX70 makes some deliberate sacrifices for style and performance to be one of the most driver-focused crossovers available. It's certainly dated up against fresher rivals, but the QX70 focuses instead on delivering excellent driving dynamics in a way matched by few other vehicles of its ilk.
Pros Terrific chassis Flexible engine and transmission Styled like nothing else
Cons Cramped interior Poor fuel economy Expensive safety options
