2022 Nissan Armada vs 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2022 Nissan Armada was a large and imposing SUV, with its roots tracing back to the Pathfinder Armada of 2004. Sharing its lineage with the Nissan Titan pickup and the international Nissan Patrol, the Armada was produced in Mississippi before moving to Japan in 2017. Its design was bold and substantial, measuring 5,305 mm in length, 1,925 mm in height, and 2,030 mm in width. The SUV's exterior was adorned with sculptural details, standard LED lighting, and a tasteful amount of chrome, giving it a luxurious appearance. The Armada's size was complemented by features like LED fog lights, roof rails, and large alloy wheels, making it a visually striking vehicle.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a rugged trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. However, its side profile introduced a softer character line, which some found added unnecessary visual weight. The rear design echoed the front grille, but the overall body felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash and metallic styling elements provided a unique look, while the infotainment system was positioned for easy driver access. The Bronze Edition featured distinctive bronze alloy wheels and fabric upholstery, though the latter was criticized for its impracticality. Despite its unconventional design, the Highlander Hybrid remained a popular choice for those seeking a hybrid SUV.

The 2022 Nissan Armada was powered by a robust 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive, provided ample power for the hefty SUV, which could weigh over 2,700 kilograms. Despite its size, the Armada offered a towing capacity of up to 3,855 kilograms. Fuel consumption was rated at 17.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 12.9 on the highway. The Armada's suspension system, featuring double wishbone front and rear with stabilizer bars, ensured a smooth ride even on rough roads.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, on the other hand, was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It utilized a continuously variable transmission and standard all-wheel drive, with an electric motor powering the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid could accelerate to 100 km/h in just over eight seconds. Its hybrid powertrain provided a quick initial response, though the engine's hum became more pronounced under heavy acceleration. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension effectively smoothing out road imperfections. The Highlander Hybrid was quieter than many midsize SUVs, provided the engine wasn't pushed too hard.

The 2022 Nissan Armada was designed to transport seven to eight passengers comfortably, with spacious seating across three rows. The first row featured power-adjustable bucket seats, while the second row offered a choice between a bench seat or captain's chairs. The third row was roomy enough for three passengers and could be equipped with power folding and reclining functions. The Armada's interior boasted dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and ample storage options, including nine cupholders and four bottle holders. With the third row folded, the Armada offered 1,413 litres of cargo space, expanding to 2,701 litres with the second row down.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provided well-cushioned front seats with plenty of adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was slightly out of reach. The second-row seats were spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench seat. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or smaller adults on short trips. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded. At maximum capacity, the Highlander Hybrid offered 2,387 litres of cargo space. Limited and Platinum trims included a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2022 Nissan Armada featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with customizable split-screen options. Standard tech included a wireless charging pad, NissanConnect telematics, Wi-Fi hotspot functionality, navigation, and a Bose audio system with 13 speakers. Connectivity options included wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. Platinum models offered a Family Entertainment System with dual 8-inch headrest monitors and wireless headphones.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option available on top trims. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and separate climate control knobs. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, while Limited and Platinum trims included a wireless charging pad. Navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system were also standard on higher trims.

The 2022 Nissan Armada was equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360, featuring high beam assist, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional safety features included adaptive cruise control, intelligent forward collision warning, and an available intelligent rear-view mirror. The Armada had dual-stage front airbags, side impact airbags, and curtain airbags for all three rows. Trailer brake and sway control were standard in Canada. The Armada had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. A surround view camera and head-up display were available on the Platinum trim. The Highlander's safety systems generally performed well, though some features required fine-tuning.