2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2025 Nissan Armada

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a nostalgic nod to the past, with its design largely unchanged since 2010. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a rugged, stable appearance, ideal for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model enhanced this tough persona with underbody skid plates and all-terrain tires, making it seem ready for any challenge. However, the interior showed its age with outdated technology and styling, featuring an analog instrument panel and a small eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. While some might appreciate the nostalgic feel, others could mistake it for a well-maintained used vehicle. The interior materials, including hard plastics and vinyl-like upholstery, were typical for off-road vehicles, prioritizing durability over luxury.

In contrast, the 2025 Nissan Armada presented a modern and imposing design, with a high beltline and a large grille that set it apart from its predecessor. The PRO-4X trim added rugged elements like skid plates and all-terrain tires, while the Platinum Reserve trim offered a more luxurious feel with leather seats and premium materials. The Armada's interior was spacious and comfortable, with "Zero Gravity" seats and a range of customization options for seating and upholstery. The third row folded flatter for increased cargo space, and the overall design provided a sense of luxury and practicality. The Armada's exterior and interior updates made it a more contemporary and appealing choice for those seeking a full-size SUV.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. While these figures were competitive with rivals like the Bronco and Wrangler, the 4Runner's five-speed automatic transmission held it back, resulting in slower acceleration and less efficient fuel economy. The TRD Pro model came standard with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, making it capable off-road. However, on-road performance was less impressive, with a slow and noisy engine, noticeable body roll, and a soft suspension that caused nosedive during braking. The 4Runner's off-road prowess was undeniable, but its on-road manners left much to be desired.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured a new 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 425 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, a significant improvement over its predecessor. The nine-speed automatic transmission provided smoother and more responsive shifts. The PRO-4X trim was equipped with off-road features like an electronic locking rear differential and adaptive air suspension, offering impressive ground clearance and approach angles. The Armada's towing capacity reached 8,500 pounds, and it came with advanced towing aids. On-road, the Armada's electric power steering and adaptive suspension provided a comfortable and engaging driving experience, while off-road, it excelled in challenging conditions.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior was functional but dated, with large climate-control dials and sturdy handles for off-road stability. The front seats offered ample space, but taller drivers might find the steering wheel's reach limited. The second row provided good legroom, though headroom was restricted due to the elevated bench. Cargo space was generous, with up to 89.7 cubic feet available when the rear seats were folded. However, the lack of remote seat releases and a powered liftgate were drawbacks. The 4Runner's sliding glass rear window and party speakers added unique features for outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2025 Nissan Armada introduced a push-button transmission, freeing up console space for a wireless charging pad. The interior featured "Zero Gravity" seats, offering comfort and customization options. The third row folded flatter for increased cargo space, with a total of 97.1 cubic feet available. The Armada's headroom and legroom were improved, though it still fell short compared to some American rivals. The Armada's interior design and features provided a sense of luxury and practicality, making it a strong contender in the full-size SUV segment.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the small eight-inch touchscreen was challenging to use while driving. The TRD Pro model featured a 15-speaker JBL audio system, but road noise often obscured the sound quality. Off-road controls were located in the headliner console, requiring familiarity with the owner's manual to fully utilize. The 4Runner's technology was basic and lacked some of the advanced features found in competitors.

The 2025 Nissan Armada came with dual 12.3-inch or 14.3-inch screens, depending on the trim, offering a modern and user-friendly interface. 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, enhancing navigation and infotainment capabilities. A head-up display was optional, and the Klipsch Premium Audio System provided excellent sound quality. The Armada's technology offerings were comprehensive and advanced, catering to tech-savvy drivers.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four out of five stars from NHTSA for overall and frontal crash protection. It scored five stars for side impacts but only three stars in rollover evaluations. The IIHS gave it "Good" ratings for moderate frontal overlap and side protection tests, but "Marginal" and "Poor" results in the small overlap frontal test. The 4Runner came with a full suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning, but some alerts were overly sensitive.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured Nissan's ProPILOT Assist suite, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering steering assistance. Higher trims offered ProPILOT Assist 1.1 and 2.1, adding proactive speed management and hands-free highway-driving assist. Nissan Safety Shield 360 included features like traffic-sign recognition and automatic emergency braking. The Armada's advanced safety technologies provided a high level of driver assistance and protection.