2022 Nissan Armada vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while moving towards the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, leading to the current XC90, which launched in 2016 as the flagship SUV on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. The XC90's design featured a sleek roofline, pronounced wheel arches, and a distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlight detail, reflecting its Swedish heritage. The interior boasted "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" styling, with natural wood and metal trim, and options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2022 Nissan Armada, originally introduced as the Pathfinder Armada in 2004, shared its platform with the Nissan Titan and Patrol SUV. By 2017, production moved to Japan, and the Armada became a cousin to the Infiniti QX80. The Armada's imposing size was evident, with dimensions of 5,305 mm in length, 1,925 mm in height, and 2,030 mm in width. Its exterior featured sculptural details, standard LED lighting, and chrome accents, with 20-inch alloy wheels standard on the SL trim and 22-inch diamond-cut wheels on the Platinum trim. The Armada's design emphasized its luxury appeal, with deep paint finishes and chrome detailing.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid combining gasoline and electric power for a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 achieving 11.5 L/100 km in the city and 8.4 on the highway, while the Recharge offered an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode and a 29-km EV range. The XC90's driving experience was noted for its minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, particularly in the Recharge Inscription extended range model.

The 2022 Nissan Armada came with a single powertrain: a naturally aspirated 5.6-litre V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. Fuel consumption was rated at 17.5 L/100 km in the city and 12.9 on the highway. Despite its weight of over 2,700 kg, the Armada offered a towing capacity of up to 3,855 kg. The Armada's performance was characterized by its ability to accelerate confidently and its effective braking system, while the four-wheel independent suspension provided a comfortable ride even on rough roads.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was available in six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. Cargo capacity ranged from 357 litres behind the third row to 1,855 litres with all seats folded. The XC90's interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a standard panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well even in extreme heat, and the vehicle's AWD system and heated features made it suitable for winter conditions.

The 2022 Nissan Armada accommodated seven to eight passengers, with power-adjustable front seats and a choice of a second-row bench or captain's chairs. The third row offered ample space for three passengers, with power folding and reclining options. The Armada's interior featured dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and numerous storage options, including nine cupholders and four bottle holders. Cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 2,701 litres available with the second and third rows folded. A power liftgate was standard in Canada.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen, offering smartphone-like gestures and Bluetooth functionality. The system was occasionally slow, but Apple CarPlay improved its performance. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, head-up display, and 360-degree camera system were available, along with a Harman-Kardon audio system and multiple USB ports.

The 2022 Nissan Armada boasted a 12.3-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen with customizable split-screen options. Standard features included wireless device charging, NissanConnect services, navigation, and a Bose audio system with 13 speakers. The Armada supported wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, with additional USB ports and a Family Entertainment System on Platinum models.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. It received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, reinforcing its reputation as a safe choice for families.

The 2022 Nissan Armada included the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, with features like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional safety systems included adaptive cruise control and an intelligent rear-view mirror. While the Armada lacked official safety ratings, its comprehensive safety features provided peace of mind.