2025 Nissan Armada vs 2024 Genesis GV80

The 2024 Genesis GV80 presented a choice between two engines: the 2.5T turbocharged four-cylinder and the 3.5T twin-turbocharged V6, with trim levels ranging from Standard to Prestige Signature. Prices varied from $57,700 to $81,750, plus a $1,350 destination charge. Our test vehicle, a GV80 3.5T in the top-tier Prestige Signature trim, featured an optional Matterhorn White Matte paint, bringing the MSRP to $84,600. The Prestige Signature trim offered exclusive exterior colors and a stylish 22-inch wheel design, though the dark paint obscured the wheel details. Inside, the Ultramarine Blue over Dune interior exuded luxury with diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and a wide touchscreen display. Despite its opulence, the Prestige Signature's exterior was relatively plain, and we found the regular Prestige trim more appealing.

The 2025 Nissan Armada showcased a bold design with a high beltline and a prominent grille, reminiscent of its luxury counterpart, the Infiniti QX80. The new front lighting signature featured C-shaped LED lines, and the PRO-4X trim included a skid plate. From the side, the Armada appeared larger and more business-like, with a parallel beltline and distinctive D-pillar accents. The PRO-4X trim added rugged elements like black plastic cladding and all-terrain tires. The rear featured standard LED taillights and a fashionable red lightbar on higher trims. Inside, the Armada offered a premium feel with leather seats and a padded center console. The Platinum Reserve trim impressed with its Chestnut with Rye theme, while the PRO-4X maintained a rugged yet premium interior.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The latter provided a more satisfying performance but was less fuel-efficient, with an observed 17.2 mpg compared to the EPA's 20 mpg estimate. Both engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, offering five driving modes. The GV80 3.5T featured upgraded front brakes and an adaptive damping suspension, delivering a rewarding driving experience with swift acceleration and commendable grip from its P265/40R22 all-season tires. The steering, though unremarkable, was comfortable for long drives.

The 2025 Nissan Armada introduced a new powertrain with a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, inspired by the GT-R, producing 425 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission replaced the old seven-speed, and all trims except the PRO-4X offered rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The PRO-4X trim included off-road features like an electronic locking rear differential and metal skid plates. The Armada's adaptive electronic air suspension, shared with the Platinum Reserve, provided a 33-degree approach angle and 9.6 inches of ground clearance. Capable of towing up to 8,500 pounds, the Armada offered eight selectable drive modes for 4WD models. On-road, the electric power steering felt engaging, while off-road, the adaptive air suspension excelled in challenging conditions.

In 2024, the Genesis GV80 3.5T Advanced was the only model with a third-row seat, while the Prestige Signature offered seating for four with second-row captain's chairs. The interior featured artificial, real, or premium leather, with standard heated front seats and a power hands-free liftgate. Our test vehicle included a panoramic glass roof, triple-zone climate control, and ventilated front seats with massage programs. However, the seats were uncomfortable on long trips, and second-row legroom was limited. Cargo space measured 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2025 Nissan Armada replaced the old gear selector with a push-button transmission, freeing up console space for a wireless charging pad. The Platinum Reserve trim featured "Zero Gravity" seats, though they felt deep. The Armada offered three rows of seating, with captain's chairs standard on Platinum trims. Cargo volume increased across the board, with 20.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 56.3 behind the second, and 97.1 in total. Headroom and legroom varied depending on the sunroof, with the third row gaining 4.5 inches of legroom. Overall, the Armada offered more cargo space than the Toyota Sequoia but less than some American rivals.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, though its distance from the driver encouraged the use of a control dial. The standard package included navigation, SiriusXM, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Wi-Fi hotspot was introduced in 2024, and wireless charging was standard. The Prestige Signature added a second-row charging pad. The GV80's digital key system allowed smartphone access, and most trims featured a Lexicon premium sound system. The Prestige trims included a head-up display showing blind-spot warnings.

The 2025 Nissan Armada came with two large screens, 12.3-inch on lower trims and 14.3-inch on higher ones. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with six USB-C ports. The SL trim added a wireless charging pad and Google Built-In, allowing Google Maps to display on the driver-information screen. A head-up display was optional from the SL trim, and a 12-speaker Klipsch Premium Audio System became standard on the SL trim. The audio system impressed with its clarity, appealing to audiophiles.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered advanced driving-assistance systems, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The latter worked well in light traffic but was less desirable in heavy traffic. The Blind-Spot View Monitor displayed video feeds in the digital instrument panel, enhancing safety during lane changes. The Remote Smart Parking Assist allowed the GV80 to park itself, even with the driver outside the vehicle. The GV80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though frontal-impact ratings were four stars.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured ProPILOT Assist, with enhanced versions on higher trims. ProPILOT Assist 1.1 added proactive speed management, while ProPILOT Assist 2.1 offered hands-free highway-driving assist. The latter required occasional steering input but adjusted smoothly to curves and lane changes. Nissan Safety Shield 360 included features like traffic-sign recognition and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims offered a 3D Around View Monitor and Invisible Hood View, enhancing visibility. The Intelligent Around-View camera allowed navigation without a physical line of sight, useful in tight spaces.