2022 Nissan Armada vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Nissan Armada was a large and imposing SUV, with its design rooted in its origins as the Pathfinder Armada. Sharing its platform with the Nissan Titan and the international Nissan Patrol, the Armada was a robust vehicle with a production history that moved from Mississippi to Japan. Its dimensions were substantial, measuring 5,305 millimetres in length, 1,925 mm in height, and 2,030 mm in width. The Armada's exterior was adorned with sculptural details, standard LED lighting, and a tasteful amount of chrome, giving it a luxurious appearance. The vehicle was available in five colours, with the SL trim in Canada featuring LED fog lights, roof rails, a power moonroof, and 20-inch alloy wheels, while the Platinum trim boasted 22-inch diamond-cut aluminum-alloy wheels.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a more refined and modern aesthetic. Gone were the days of Volvo's boxy designs; the XC90 presented a purposeful yet understated look. Its front end was solid without being ostentatious, and the grille was assertive without being overly flashy. The signature "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a contemporary touch. The XC90's dimensions leaned towards a rectilinear shape, but it was far from the toaster-like designs of the past. The Ultimate trim, with its 21-inch wheels and Platinum Grey paint, added a touch of drama to the otherwise stoic vehicle. Inside, the XC90 was a blend of elegance and minimalism, featuring two-tone leather steering wheels, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The interior was a harmonious mix of materials, with wood deco inlays adding a touch of nature.

The 2022 Nissan Armada was powered by a naturally aspirated 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, provided a robust driving experience. The Armada's fuel consumption was rated at 17.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 12.9 on the highway, and 15.4 combined. Despite its hefty weight of over 2,700 kilograms, the Armada could tow up to 3,855 kilograms. Its four-wheel independent suspension and 22-inch wheels offered a controlled ride, even on rough roads.

The 2023 Volvo XC90, on the other hand, featured the new B6 engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain offered a smoother operation and slightly better fuel efficiency compared to its predecessors. The XC90's eight-speed automatic transmission provided seamless acceleration, and its handling was surprisingly agile for its size. The vehicle's brakes were solid, and the cabin was well-insulated from road and wind noise. While the XC90 lacked extensive off-road capabilities, its simplicity in driving dynamics was appreciated by those who preferred a straightforward driving experience.

The 2022 Nissan Armada was designed to transport seven to eight passengers comfortably. The first row featured power-adjustable bucket seats, while the second row offered either a bench seat or captain's chairs. The third row was spacious enough for three passengers and could be equipped with power folding and reclining functions. The Armada's interior was equipped with dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and quilted leather appointments in the Platinum trim. The vehicle offered ample cargo space, with up to 2,701 litres available when the second and third rows were folded.

In comparison, the 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was marked by Scandinavian minimalism, which sometimes led to space and storage frustrations. The second row was comfortable but adjusting the seats could be challenging. The third row was less accessible, and cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with a maximum of 1,856 litres. Despite these limitations, the XC90 drove like a smaller vehicle, offering a more car-like experience.

The 2022 Nissan Armada came equipped with NissanConnect technology, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This system allowed for a customizable split-screen display and included features such as wireless device charging, navigation, and a Bose audio system with 13 speakers. The Armada also offered wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connectivity, along with a "Family Entertainment System" in the Platinum models.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display running on Google OS. This system integrated Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant, offering natural-language recognition for a seamless user experience. However, many functions were embedded within the touchscreen interface, which could be frustrating for some users. Keyless entry was standard, and a head-up display was optional.

The 2022 Nissan Armada was equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360, which included features such as high beam assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The vehicle also offered adaptive cruise control, intelligent forward collision warning, and an intelligent rear-view mirror. While the Armada had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, it was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, carrying a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. The vehicle featured standard blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Volvo's Pilot Assist technology provided additional support, maintaining distance from the car ahead and assisting with lane-keeping.