When you catch a glimpse of the Nissan Armada, luxury tends to be the first word that comes to mind. Its dazzling appeal radiates from front to back, and as you take in its ruggedly handsome looks, you may be fascinated by its presence. Few models can compete with the brawn of the Armada, but one worthy contender would like a shot, and that model is the Toyota Sequoia. Both vehicles emanate bold characteristics, and if you’re in the market for a rugged traveler, the Armada and the Sequoia both have their fair share of intimidation floating around them. So which one of these monstrous SUVs comes out the winner? Let’s take a look at the 2022 Nissan Armada vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia.
Built With Boldness
Durability is a top priority when it comes to the overall ruggedness of a vehicle. After all, your travels may consist of rumbling through the wilderness or taking on tough tasks regularly, which calls for an SUV that can handle it. The 2022 Nissan Armada is still stunning from the enhancements made to it last year, with a boxy exterior design and plenty of bold features from top to bottom. Exhibiting a more truck-like presence than its predecessors, the Armada can take on any terrain, with high ground clearance and a reinforced build to allow it to maintain its confident disposition, no matter what obstacles lie in its path.
The Sequoia, although a little past its prime at this point, still appeals to those searching for a more robust SUV that can take on the elements. Its long wheelbase allows it to accommodate more inside, as well as handle whatever the road tosses its way. Short overhangs allow it to go off-road like a pro, and with newer LED lighting elements, it exhibits some of the contemporary vibes drivers are searching for in a vehicle. It’s abundantly obvious, however, that the Sequoia is getting outdated, and a significant change is going to need to happen in order for it to keep up with its more modern rivals.
When a bold design is on your mind, the Nissan Armada showcases one for the ages. It’s elegant yet intimidating, refined yet practical, and appeals to more drivers who yearn to experience adventure. The Sequoia just fails to keep up when it comes to design, as it’s looked virtually the same for years, causing many drivers to look right past it at other better-suited options.
Intimidating Off-Road Appeal
If you’re interested in a rugged traveler, chances are off-roading is in your future plans, and being able to get out into nature and away from it all is what appeals to many drivers. Fortunately, thanks to its bold exterior design and uncanny performance elements, the Armada is ready and willing to deliver the impactful experience you’re looking for off-road. An Intelligent 4×4 system is at the helm, delivering maximum traction, stability, and control on any surface, including rain, sleet, ice, mud, and more. Selectable drive modes allow the Armada to make adjustments depending on the terrain beneath its tires, offering a level of precision that can’t be found elsewhere. Plus, with the Active Brake Limited Slip feature, you’ll be in full control, even if one wheel is slipping, as the Armada dedicates power to the wheels with optimal traction.
Choosing the TRD Pro model will allow you to harness the best off-roading features in the Sequoia. From a suspension lift to enhanced shocks, massive WILDPEAK all-terrain tires, and more, the Sequoia can take you off the beaten path with confidence, but there are some downfalls to keep in mind. Once the Sequoia leaves the highway, you’re in for quite the bumpy ride, with less refinement on uneven terrain. This results in an all-around uncomfortable experience for all on board. Although it’s to be expected that a rugged off-roader would be a tad bit rough, this level is above and beyond the competition, prompting many adventurous drivers to look elsewhere for their next capable explorer.
A Brawny Ride
Perhaps it’s not off-road adventuring that’s on your agenda but a list of tough tasks that you need to complete, which warrants a capable vehicle. The Armada takes the lead over much of its competition here, with an ultra-powerful engine, allowing it to make a statement when hard work is concerned. Its 5.6L V8 provides the Armada with 400 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to travel with assurance anywhere it pleases. When you’re looking for a rugged vehicle that can tow, the Armada is it, with an 8,500-lb towing capacity, standard auto-leveling suspension system, and loads of tech to ensure a safe haul. From Trailer Sway Control to a dedicated Tow-Haul Mode to make the drive more stable and controlled, the Armada thinks of everything when bold performance is a priority.
Unfortunately, the Toyota Sequoia can’t keep up here either. Its 5.7L V8 is no match for the Armada, only producing 381 hp and towing a maximum of 7,400 lbs. On the plus side, it does offer convenient features to make tackling tough tasks easier, like Tow/Haul modes and an integrated trailer brake controller. In the end, it just doesn’t exhibit as much brawn as the Armada. This is a big factor to consider, especially if you’re regularly towing your camper or need a vehicle that can handle more without question.
An Interior Designed for Adventuring
Finally, to be a rugged vehicle, you have to look and act the part inside and out. The Armada does this perfectly with plenty of space for all of your gear and an interior designed with versatility in mind. A power-folding third row, exceptional cargo space, and under-floor cargo storage makes jetting off on any adventure easy and seamless. What’s even more appealing is the high-end detail that’s put into every aspect of the Armada’s cabin, from the premium leather-appointed seats to second-row captain’s chairs and all of the gorgeous elements in between.
In desperate need of a revamp, the Sequoia disappoints with an outdated cabin experience. On the plus side, it does offer copious amounts of cargo space, which places it toward the head of its class, but it’s just not enough. Budget-friendly elements accentuate the interior cabin of the Sequoia, and when you place this look against the elegant backdrop of the Armada, there’s just no competition. The Armada wins, hands down.
Boldness, Intensified
There’s no doubt about it—the 2022 Nissan Armada takes the lead in all aspects of boldness. From its ruggedly handsome exterior and truck-like appearance to its incomparable off-roading and performance characteristics, if you’re looking for a robust traveler that can handle it all, the Armada is certainly a top pick. The Sequoia falls short in these areas due to the fact that it needs an upgrade. It’s completely outdated from a style perspective, and as more vehicles advance, it seems like the Sequoia is standing still. Although it can hold its own on the trails, its ride is undeniably rough and uncomfortable, and even though it’s strong, it’s not as strong as its rivals.
A rugged traveler that can offer you the strength you need, combined with a comfortably refined experience inside is difficult to find, but you’ll be able to find it all in the Nissan Armada. Designed with lofty goals in mind, the Armada appeals to drivers seeking a bold, capable vehicle for their travels. From its beauty to its brawn, there’s no stopping the Armada. It’s on a mission to thrill you.
