2010 Nissan Armada: Road Test
2010 Nissan Armada ▼
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- MSRP: $37,210 - $52,190
- Invoice: $33,880 - $47,498
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Our road test for the 2010 Nissan Armada includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Nissan Armada from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Nissan Armada, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Nissan Armada help you decide if a 2010 Nissan Armada is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 4WD SE | 2WD Platinum | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.8 |
Armada delivers fairly strong takeoffs. One test model had overly sensitive throttle action, resulting in jerky progress around town. A handy tow-haul mode complements the alert, smooth-shifting automatic transmission.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 4WD SE | 2WD Platinum | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2.8 |
In Consumer Guide testing, 2WD Armadas averaged a dismal 12-14.5 mpg. Armada uses regular-grade gas and can be equipped to run E85 ethanol.
RIDE QUALITY
| 4WD SE | 2WD Platinum | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
Most low-speed bumps and ruts are taken in stride, but Armada tends to jiggle over patchy pavement and expansion joints at highway speeds. It doesn't show much float or wallow on dips and swells. We recommend the available load-leveling suspension.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4WD SE | 2WD Platinum | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.8 |
Armada is as clumsy in close quarters as any big SUV. The steering has a firm feel, but Armada reacts slowly to inputs. Cornering behavior is generally good, with no undue noseplow or body lean. Good stopping control, but our testers are divided on pedal modulation. Some find too much free play, others cite fine response.
QUIETNESS
| 4WD SE | 2WD Platinum | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6.6 |
Armada suffers marked full-throttle engine roar. Wind and road noise are well muffled.
CONTROLS
| 4WD SE | 2WD Platinum | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.1 |
The gauges are easy to read. Simple three-dial climate system may be a stretch away for some drivers, and its dial positions can be tough to decipher in daylight.
DETAILS
| 4WD SE | 2WD Platinum | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.9 |
Interior decor is mostly plain with materials that trail Armada's large-SUV rivals. Test examples had various creaks and rattles, including a squeaking steering column and wind whistle from the cargo area.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 4WD SE | 2WD Platinum | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 8.8 |
The front seats are roomy and supportive, but Armada wedges the driver's manual lumbar-adjustment lever against the door pillar. Its standard tilt steering wheel teams with standard power-adjustable pedals to aid in driver positioning. Small nearby objects are tough to spot, but visibility is commanding otherwise, helped by jumbo door mirrors and unobtrusive headrests. Very high step-in gives the standard running boards a workout.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 4WD SE | 2WD Platinum | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.8 |
Armada has large doorways, but step-in is steep here, too. Second-row space is generous, but the available bucket seats are narrow and lack proper contouring and thigh support. They tumble forward, but leave a slim passage that means a jungle-gym climb into or out of 3rd row. Once there, adults find a flat, hard, undersized bench and less space than in most other large SUVs.
CARGO ROOM
| 4WD SE | 2WD Platinum | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9.8 |
High-ride stance means a high load floor. The available power liftgate is a necessity. The rear seats fold without having to remove the headrests. Space is modest behind the 3rd-row seat, but its split-folding design adds versatility. Too bad raising those 3rd-row seats requires crawling into the load area or climbing into the 2nd row. Right-front seatback folds flat for a long cargo channel in SEs with cloth upholstery. Terrific interior storage includes bins, pockets, and lots of beverage holders.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 4WD SE | 2WD Platinum | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 8.2 |
Armada doesn't lead the large-SUV class in any area. It trails key rivals in 3rd-row comfort and ease of entry and exit. Still, engine performance is laudable, and prices generally undercut those of similarly equipped competitors. Despite quality gaffes in some of our test models, Nissan does have a good reputation for mechanical reliability.
Total Score
| 4WD SE | 2WD Platinum | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 63 | 62 | 71.9 |
Total Score: 63
Scores for all Large Sport-utility Vehicles
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