2021 Volvo XC90 vs 2021 Nissan Armada

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while introducing a more characterful appearance. The XC90 retained its boxy profile and rectangular grille, but with softer lines, increased chrome, and distinctive LED headlights featuring "Thor’s Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. The XC90 shared its Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform with other Volvo models, emphasizing its crossover nature. Inside, the XC90 embraced "Swedish minimalism," offering high-quality materials and thoughtful design, with options like wool upholstery and a crystal shifter adding unique touches.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Armada underwent a significant facelift, aligning its design with Nissan's new signature look. The Armada's exterior featured a new grille, fenders, bumpers, and LED lights, modernizing its appearance while retaining its robust and athletic styling. The Platinum trim, tested in prototype form, offered captain’s chairs as an option, enhancing comfort. The Armada's body-on-frame construction and high ground clearance made it a capable off-roader, while its new logo and exterior colour options added to its refreshed look. However, the interior remained somewhat dated, with design choices that detracted from its overall aesthetic, despite upgraded tech features.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 variant added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, or Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors, delivering a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. All models in Canada came with standard all-wheel drive. Despite its power, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' larger engines. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a quiet cabin. Its towing capacity was 2,250 kilograms, suitable for moderate loads.

The 2021 Nissan Armada was equipped with a robust 5.6-litre V8 engine, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. The Armada's automatic four-wheel drive and off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like a skid plate, double-wishbone suspension, and 23.4 centimetres of ground clearance. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, with high consumption figures. The Armada's handling improved over previous models, but its large size made maneuvering challenging. It boasted a best-in-class towing capacity of 3,856 kilograms, supported by standard trailer sway control and a trailer brake controller.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered six- or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom across its three rows. The third row was tight for adults, and seats lacked support. A power sunroof and four-zone climate control enhanced the interior's spacious feel. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats with massage, but storage space was limited. Cargo capacity was 317 litres with all seats up, expanding to 1,815 litres with seats folded, but remained below average for the segment.

The 2021 Nissan Armada, as a full-size SUV, provided ample space but required a step up to enter. The dashboard's width made some controls hard to reach. Front seats were 10-way power-adjustable, with power lumbar support. The Platinum trim offered second-row captain’s chairs, reducing seating capacity to seven. Third-row seating was cramped for adults. Cargo space was 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 2,692 litres with seats folded. The high load floor made loading challenging, but a deep centre console storage bin was a plus.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The system was user-friendly, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen and minimal analog controls. A 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display were available. However, the wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and only second-row USB-C ports were provided.

The 2021 Nissan Armada boasted a class-leading 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, responsive and clear. Standard features included navigation, a 13-speaker Bose stereo, and wireless Apple CarPlay. A rearview camera mirror and rear-seat entertainment system were available on the Platinum trim. The Armada's steering wheel was functional but lacked sophistication. The infotainment system was comprehensive, with a WiFi hotspot and multiple USB ports.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered extensive standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2021 Nissan Armada had not been fully rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but received a three-star rollover rating. It came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, featuring automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. Additional safety technologies included adaptive cruise control and a rear camera mirror.