2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2025 Nissan Armada

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was designed to project a rugged appearance, with its aggressive front fascia and angular body cladding. Despite its tough exterior, the RAV4's performance did not match its looks, as the dual exhaust outlets suggested more power than the vehicle delivered. The TRD Off-Road model, priced at $41,925 with options, featured Army Green paint, a digital rearview mirror, and advanced technology packages. The RAV4's interior emphasized utility, with easy-clean surfaces and practical storage solutions. Higher trims offered more luxurious interiors, with contrast-color options available in the XLE Premium and Limited trims.

In contrast, the 2025 Nissan Armada presented a bold and imposing design, reminiscent of its luxury counterpart, the Infiniti QX80. The high beltline and large grille gave the Armada a commanding presence, especially in the PRO-4X trim with its skid plate and rugged features. The Armada's side profile was business-like, with a parallel beltline and distinctive D-pillar accents. The PRO-4X and Platinum Reserve trims featured a fashionable red lightbar at the rear, while the interior offered premium materials and comfort. The Armada's cabin was spacious, with options for captain's chairs and a variety of color combinations, enhancing its luxurious feel.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The engine required high revs to access its full power, and the eight-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, with an optional torque-vectoring AWD system. The TRD Off-Road model came standard with AWD, off-road suspension tuning, and all-terrain tires. Despite its off-road enhancements, the RAV4's ground clearance and approach angles were not significantly improved. The RAV4's fuel economy was rated at 28 mpg combined, with the test vehicle averaging 26.6 mpg.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured a new 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 425 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous seven-speed, and the PRO-4X trim was exclusively 4WD. The Armada's off-road capabilities were enhanced with an electronic locking rear differential, metal skid plates, and adaptive electronic air suspension. The Armada's towing capacity reached 8,500 pounds, and it offered eight selectable drive modes for various terrains. On-road, the Armada's electric power steering provided a balanced feel, while the adaptive air suspension ensured comfort both on and off the road.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4's interior focused on practicality, with ample storage options and oversized control knobs. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex artificial leather upholstery and optional heated and ventilated front seats. The RAV4 comfortably seated four adults, with a spacious cargo area offering 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2025 Nissan Armada introduced a push-button transmission, freeing up center console space for a wireless charging pad. The Armada's "Zero Gravity" seats provided comfort, with various power adjustment options across trims. The three-row SUV offered flexible seating configurations, with increased cargo volume across all rows. The Armada's headroom and legroom varied depending on the presence of a sunroof, but overall, it provided ample space for passengers and cargo.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or optional 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Various connected services were available, including Service Connect, Safety Connect, and Remote Connect. The infotainment system was sophisticated but had some usability issues, such as the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and difficulties exiting Apple CarPlay.

The 2025 Nissan Armada came standard with dual 12.3-inch or 14.3-inch displays, depending on the trim. 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 for native Google Maps integration. A head-up display was optional, and the Klipsch Premium Audio System provided an enhanced listening experience starting at the SL trim.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. However, the base LE trim lacked blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The TSS 2.5 system performed adequately, but the RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to lower ratings in recent crash tests.

The 2025 Nissan Armada featured Nissan's ProPILOT Assist suite, with varying levels of advanced driver-assistance technologies across trims. The most advanced version, ProPILOT Assist 2.1, offered hands-free highway-driving assist. The Armada also included Nissan Safety Shield 360, with features like traffic-sign recognition and automatic emergency braking. The surround-view camera and 3D Around View Monitor enhanced visibility and safety.