2026 Nissan Armada vs 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid

Subaru may as well be the automotive mascot of the Pacific Northwest and the Northeast, thanks to the ability of models such as the Subaru Outback and the Ascent to conquer challenging conditions. The redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester reinforces those advantages, and this time around, a new Forester Hybrid model adds efficiency as another plus, along with more power and a few extra features. It’s due to be followed by the smaller Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid in fall 2025.

Verdict: A more efficient version of Subaru's rugged and evergreen compact SUV.

In our recent testing, no vehicle has outperformed its prior generation like the Nissan Armada. Gutted and redone for the 2025 model year, the Armada brings power, towing capacity, premium materials, and luxury-grade driving dynamics at a reasonable price. For 2026, Nissan made a NISMO version as a trial run for its planned lineup of performance trucks. Slammed on air springs and painted like the Z sports car, this is yet another Armada trim that goes further than Toyota, Chevrolet, GMC, and Jeep are willing to for $80,000.

Verdict: The Armada offers a surprising level of quality, choice, and driving enjoyment that puts it ahead of the competition.