2021 Lexus NX Hybrid vs 2021 Nissan Armada

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the UX and RX models, showcased a blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, giving it a distinctive yet familiar look. Despite its sporty F Sport Black Line enhancements, including a larger mesh grille and dark-finish wheels, the NX's design had not evolved significantly over the years. Inside, the NX offered a radical design with a stepped center console and sporty elements like an F Sport heated steering wheel and aluminum pedals. However, the material quality leaned more towards mainstream than luxury, with noticeable plastic switchgear.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Armada underwent a significant facelift, aligning its design with Nissan's new signature look. The Armada's exterior updates included a new grille, LED headlights, and modernized bumpers, maintaining its traditional robust styling. The Platinum trim featured body-color over fenders and dark-painted roof rails, enhancing its athletic appearance. Inside, the Armada offered a spacious cabin with a new 12.3-inch touchscreen, though some design elements felt dated. The SUV's broad dashboard and high load floor were notable, providing practicality but also presenting challenges for smaller individuals.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a total of 194 horsepower. Despite its sporty appearance, the NX Hybrid prioritized fuel efficiency over performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The sport-tuned suspension improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with quick acceleration. Drive modes offered minimal impact on performance, with Eco mode further reducing acceleration.

The 2021 Nissan Armada boasted a powerful 5.6-liter V8 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, the Armada offered robust off-road capabilities and a best-in-class towing capacity of 8,500 pounds. However, its fuel economy was low, with RWD models achieving 14 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. The Armada's handling improved over previous models, but its large size made maneuvering challenging.

The Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. The front seats offered good support, and features like power adjustment and heated seats were available. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. Visibility was hindered by thick rear pillars, though large mirrors helped.

The Nissan Armada provided ample space, with comfortable first and second-row seating. The third row was less accommodating for adults. Cargo space was 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 95.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The high load floor posed challenges for loading, and small-item storage was limited. The center console offered deep storage, but smartphone placement was inconvenient.

The Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display with a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, the system felt dated, with text-heavy menus and basic graphics. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

The Nissan Armada excelled in technology, featuring a class-leading 12.3-inch touchscreen with responsive controls. Standard features included navigation, a WiFi hotspot, and wireless Apple CarPlay. The Platinum trim added a 13-speaker Bose audio system and a rearview camera mirror. The steering wheel offered limited control, but the infotainment system was user-friendly.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control and lane-departure warning. However, it lacked a 360-degree camera system.

The 2021 Nissan Armada had not been fully rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, receiving a three-star rollover rating. It featured Nissan Safety Shield 360, with standard safety technologies like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot warning. Additional options included a rear camera mirror and surround-view camera system, though advanced driving assist technologies were absent.