2025 Nissan Armada vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was a more rugged alternative to the Mazda CX-5, featuring a design that was both wider and longer, with a lower stance. Its broad-shouldered proportions were accentuated by square wheel arches and faux air vents, giving it a fresh look compared to the older CX-5. Available in eight trim levels, the CX-50 offered a variety of wheel sizes and styling options, with the 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition standing out for its all-terrain tires and earthy color palette. The interior was well-designed, with a BMW-like infotainment screen and impressive material quality, though it still fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations.

In contrast, the 2025 Nissan Armada boasted a strikingly high beltline and a tall grille, reminiscent of its luxury counterpart, the Infiniti QX80. The PRO-4X trim added rugged features like a skid plate and all-terrain tires, while the Platinum Reserve trim offered a more luxurious experience with leather upholstery and premium interior accents. The Armada's design was both imposing and business-like, with distinctive C-shaped LED lights and a fashionable rear lightbar. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with options for captain's chairs and a variety of color themes, making it a compelling choice for those seeking both style and substance.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged version offered up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, along with various driving modes. The CX-50 was a competent daily driver, though it lacked the sporty dynamics of the CX-5. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and reduced grip, making it less ideal for on-road driving.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured a new 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 425 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. This was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive or Nissan's Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive available on most trims. The PRO-4X trim was equipped with off-road enhancements like an electronic locking rear differential and adaptive air suspension, providing impressive ground clearance and approach angles. The Armada's towing capacity was a robust 8,500 pounds, and its updated electric power steering offered a balanced driving experience both on and off the road.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom. Its cargo space was competitive, with 31.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 56.3 cubic feet with them folded. However, it lagged behind some rivals in overall cargo capacity. The interior featured a sensible layout with adequate storage, though the Meridian Edition's rugged looks weren't matched by additional functionality.

The 2025 Nissan Armada introduced a push-button transmission, freeing up console space for a wireless charging pad. Its "Zero Gravity" seats were comfortable, with various power adjustments available across trims. The Armada's cargo volume increased significantly, offering 20.4 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 97.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. While it fell short of some American rivals in passenger space, it offered more room than the Toyota Sequoia, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary dial, offering wireless Apple CarPlay but requiring a cable for Android Auto. Higher trims added features like wireless charging and a Bose audio system. While the system was straightforward, it lacked the excitement and advanced features found in some competitors.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured dual screens, with sizes varying by trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with multiple USB-C ports. The SL trim and above offered Google Built-In, allowing for seamless integration of Google Maps. A head-up display was optional, and a 12-speaker Klipsch audio system was available on higher trims, providing an immersive audio experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in most crash tests. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assist features, including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Optional features like a 360-degree camera system added extra safety.

The 2025 Nissan Armada came with Nissan's ProPILOT Assist, offering varying levels of driver-assistance technology across trims. The most advanced version, ProPILOT Assist 2.1, provided hands-free highway driving assist. Nissan Safety Shield 360 was standard, including features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot warning. The Armada also offered advanced camera systems for enhanced visibility.