Big families with boats to tow and off-road trails to travel love the 2020 Ford Expedition and Nissan Armada. But which is more beloved? Our comparison guide takes a closer look at what you’ll find inside these three-row SUVs and just how capable each one actually is.
Superb Space: 2020 Ford Expedition
The Expedition is the rare full-size SUV that delivers adult-friendly passenger space in all three rows of seating. Even as your family grows, the Expedition remains as useful as it ever was. By comparison, the Armada’s third-row seats are a big of tight squeeze for grownups, especially during long trips.
You’ll also love the Expedition’s features lineup. Even the base XLT trim model includes complete smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. (On the Armada, this smartphone-friendly technology isn’t offered at all.) The Expedition also puts an emphasis on style, with options that include upgraded leather upholstery and interior wood trim.
The 2020 Nissan Armada might not be as roomy or tech-savvy, but it does have one claim to fame: its luxuriously quiet cabin. Even when you’re pushing the engine to its limit, the cabin remains as hushed as a luxury SUV.
Rugged Performance: 2020 Ford Expedition
Adventurous families prefer the 2020 Ford Expedition. With its optional four-wheel-drive performance, Ford’s full-size SUV lives up to its name, bringing you into off-road territory in style. Thanks to its precise steering and composed handling, the Expedition gives you the kind of feedback you need as you stray from the pavement.
The 2020 Nissan Armada also offers optional four-wheel drive. However, its steering doesn’t convey the same sense of precision you get with the Expedition, cutting back on driver confidence on the trail. The Armada isn’t nearly as composed in corners, either, leaning a little more than we’d like.
Max Towing Capabilities: 2020 Ford Expedition
To tow the biggest camper, you need the Expedition. Properly equipped, this full-size SUV tows up to 9,300 pounds – much more than segment competitors. However, if you don’t need the Expedition’s extra heft, you’ll likely be happy with the Armada’s towing performance. Thanks to its torque-heavy base engine, every Armada can tow up to 8,500 pounds.
Thriftiest Price: 2020 Nissan Armada
One of the Armada’s biggest draws is its price tag. Compared to segment competitors like the Expedition, the Armada costs notably less. With a starting MSRP of $47,100, the Armada can save you a few thousand bucks on upfront costs. By comparison, the Expedition starts at $52,810.
Survey says that big families prefer the Ford Expedition. Although the Armada might cost a little less, the Expedition makes up for its slightly steeper price tag with more capabilities, greater interior comfort, and a much savvier tech lineup.