The Armada is one of the more popular full-size SUVs in the world. For many, it provides the perfect amount of passenger and cargo space a family could need. The Nissan model provides off-road capability, a potent engine, and many standard features. If someone isn’t interested in an Armada, the most obvious alternative is an Infiniti QX80. This is because Infiniti is Nissan’s luxury brand, and the two vehicles are nearly identical. However, did you know there are a few other Nissan Armada alternatives that aren’t an Infiniti QX80 that check most of the same boxes?

Why buy a Nissan Armada alternative?

For what reason would someone want a Nissan Armada alternative? First, it might be a little on the big side for some drivers. Like many full-size SUVs, the Armada is a massive model that’s often compared to driving a house. With such an extensive body, it can be a lot to handle through small spaces, parking lots, or even city streets. As a result, many buyers will opt for something a bit smaller to better fit their needs. Buying the Infiniti QX80 would offer nearly the exact same dimensions, so other alternatives are necessary.

Next, the Armada comes exclusively with a V8 engine. Although it is powerful and provides an excellent smooth ride, the fuel economy is abysmal. Gas prices are higher than ever, and Nissan’s SUV offers 13 mpg in the city and 18 on the highway. Many competitors already offer a hybrid powertrain alternative to their V6 or V8 options, so finding a more fuel-economical full-size SUV isn’t too tall of an order.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia is a great Nissan Armada alternative

One of the best Nissan Armada alternatives is the 2023 Toyota Sequoia. It’s a full-size SUV, so it matches just about everything in terms of size and space provided. According to Edmunds, the Sequoia has one of the largest cargo areas in its class. It also offers a smooth and comfortable ride not always found with SUVs of its size. One of the other benefits of the Sequoia is its off-road capability, mostly through the TRD Pro trim with Fox shocks, skid plates, and other off-road-ready features. We expect the trim to make a return for the 2023 model year with similar equipment to 2022.

More importantly, the new Sequoia offers a hybrid powertrain. The standard engine included with every one of these Toyota models is a turbocharged V6 paired with a hybrid system. It produces 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, which beats the Armada’s V8, rated for 400 hp and 413 lb-ft. In addition, it averages 21 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, far higher than the Armada.

Try the smaller Nissan Pathfinder instead

Another Nissan Armada alternative that isn’t an Infiniti QX80 is a Nissan Pathfinder. Sometimes the best option is within the same lineup as the other model. For Nissan, the Armada is the massive SUV that’s good for big families but not great for city driving, fuel economy, or parking in your garage. However, the midsize Pathfinder is the perfect alternative for all those reasons.

According to Edmunds, the Pathfinder has a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. In addition, it’s rated for an average of 21 city mpg and 27 on the highway. Although it’s smaller and more drivable, the Pathfinder also offers seating for eight, which matches its big brother. Finally, the best part is that the Pathfinder Platinum is the fully-loaded model, starting at $49,265. Comparably, the Armada base model starts at $51,595. In short, the Pathfinder provides buyers with more bang for their buck.

Nissan Armada alternatives that aren’t an Infiniti QX80

In conclusion, the 2022 and 2023 Nissan Armada are some of the most exciting full-size SUVs available. Unfortunately, they also get lousy gas mileage, are too big for some drivers, and can be pretty expensive. The most obvious alternative is the Infiniti QX80 because the two are nearly the same vehicle. However, buying the Toyota Sequoia or Nissan Pathfinder provides owners with all the benefits of the Armada and QX80 but without most of the issues.