2025 Nissan Armada vs Toyota Sequoia: Fullsize SUV Comparison
Fullsize SUVs have been seeing major redesigns recently, and Japanese automakers are no exception. After many years, Nissan has released an all-new Armada, bringing space, luxury, and technology that can truly compete with rivals like the redesigned Toyota Sequoia. If you are considering a fullsize SUV purchase, this comparison will help you understand which Japanese heavyweight fits your needs best.
Pricing and Trim Levels
Fullsize SUVs have become more expensive, especially at their top trims. Here’s a look at the pricing for the fully loaded models:
Toyota Sequoia Capstone (4WD, few options): $88,000
Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve (4WD): $85,000
Despite Nissan being slightly more affordable, the difference is not substantial. If you want the best deals, tools like Car Confections can provide invoice pricing and local dealership offers to help you negotiate.
Exterior Comparison
Both SUVs have bold, premium designs that signal their top-trim status.
Armada:
Sportier appearance with black mesh and subtle chrome accents
Several two-tone roof paint options
Hidden rear wiper
Fully LED lighting
Sequoia:
Heavy chrome styling on Capstone trim
Dynamic LED turn signals
Slightly higher towing capacity: 9,000 lbs vs 8,500 lbs for Armada
Shared Features:
Large 22-inch wheels with premium designs
Premium LED projector headlights and fog lamps
Heated, folding, auto-dimming mirrors with blind spot monitoring
Standard advanced safety systems
Key Takeaway: Both vehicles are visually impressive. The Armada leans sportier, while the Sequoia focuses on chrome and traditional luxury cues.
Interior and Comfort
Both SUVs offer luxurious interiors with high-end materials, large screens, and advanced tech features.
Armada:
14.3-inch digital gauge cluster (50% larger than previous generation)
Google Apps integration with native access to Google Maps
Electronic shifter with pass-through storage
Zero gravity front seats for comfort
Rear seats slide forward/back for space adjustment
Full air suspension enhances ride quality
Sequoia:
12.3-inch digital cluster
Slightly more adjustable front seats with power thigh extensions
Larger center console for more front storage (fits up to two dozen donuts)
Ventilated second-row seats
Traditional rear glass operation (pops independently from tailgate)
Shared Features:
Heated and ventilated front seats with massage and memory
Panoramic sunroof
Three-zone climate control
Multi-view 360° cameras
Rear camera mirrors
Quick Reference:
Armada offers more cargo space and versatile seating adjustments
Sequoia has larger center console and more front seat adjustments
Both have premium materials: leather, wood accents, and stitching patterns
Interior Storage and Cargo
| Feature | Armada | Sequoia |
|---|---|---|
| Main console storage | Pass-through area | Larger console for front storage |
| Rear seats folding | Buttons from cargo area | Rear glass pops independently |
| Third-row seat folding | Easy with child seat installed | Standard folding mechanism |
| Overall cargo space | Significantly more | Slightly less due to higher floor |
| Spare tire | Full-size | Full-size |
Key Takeaway: Armada wins for cargo space and rear seat versatility.
Performance and Powertrain
Both SUVs now use 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engines, moving away from the older V8s:
| Feature | Nissan Armada | Toyota Sequoia |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 | 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 425 hp | 437 hp |
| Torque | 516 lb-ft | 583 lb-ft (hybrid) |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Drive | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel economy (combined) | Lower | 3 MPG better than Armada |
Ride and Handling:
Armada: Full air suspension with independent rear suspension ensures smooth ride and better handling.
Sequoia: Solid rear axle with adaptive dampers, slightly truck-like feel.
Sound Insulation: Both SUVs perform well at 55 mph, delivering quiet cabin experiences.
Safety and Technology
Both SUVs come with all standard safety features.
Armada Optional Features: ProPilot 2.1 (hands-free driving and automatic lane change on highways)
Sequoia Optional Features: Seat ventilation in second row (top trims)
Shared Features: Blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise, lane-keeping assist, multiple airbags
Reliability and Resale
| Factor | Nissan Armada | Toyota Sequoia |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability Index | 2 slots below avg | 16 slots above avg |
| Predicted 5-year resale value | 50.5% | 64.5% |
| Original price advantage | $3,080 cheaper | - |
Takeaway: Toyota Sequoia is stronger in reliability and resale value, but Armada is slightly more affordable upfront.
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Toyota Sequoia if you:
Want the maximum towing capacity
Prioritize resale value and long-term reliability
Prefer hybrid fuel economy and slightly more power
Appreciate ventilated second-row seats, power running boards, and rear sunshades
Choose the Nissan Armada if you:
Need maximum cargo space and versatile third-row seating
Value smoother ride and better handling on back roads
Prefer advanced technology like Google built-in and ProPilot hands-free driving
Want a sportier exterior and luxurious interior features
Final Verdict
Both the 2025 Nissan Armada and Toyota Sequoia are excellent fullsize SUVs, each with its strengths. Your choice should depend on what matters most: cargo and comfort with Armada, or reliability, resale, and towing with Sequoia.
Frequently Asked Questions - Nissan Armada vs Toyota Sequoia
What are the price differences between the Nissan Armada and Toyota Sequoia?
The fully loaded Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve with 4WD starts just above $85,000, while the Toyota Sequoia Capstone with 4WD is around $88,000. This makes the Nissan slightly more affordable but both are premium full-size SUVs.
How do the exteriors of these SUVs compare?
The Armada has a sportier design with black mesh and subtle chrome, while the Sequoia features extensive chrome accents. Both have premium full LED headlights, fog lamps, large wheels, and boxy, imposing shapes.
Which SUV offers better towing capacity?
The Toyota Sequoia has a slight edge, towing around 9,000 lbs, compared to the Nissan Armada’s 8,500 lbs. Both SUVs are highly capable for large trailers and boats.
What are the major interior differences?
Both SUVs feature luxurious interiors with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. The Armada has a 14.3-inch digital gauge cluster and Google apps built-in, while the Sequoia offers a slightly larger center console, semi-aniline leather, and more front seat adjustments.
Which SUV has more rear seat and cargo space?
The Armada delivers more space across all three seating rows and larger cargo capacity due to its independent rear suspension. The Sequoia’s higher floor reduces thigh support and limits cargo flexibility.
How do the powertrains compare?
Both switched to 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engines. The Armada produces 425 hp and 516 lb-ft torque, while the Sequoia delivers 437 hp. The Toyota uses a hybrid setup for better fuel efficiency, while the Armada maintains a full gas configuration.
Which SUV has better ride quality?
The Armada features a full air suspension that provides a smoother ride and better handling on back roads. The Sequoia has a solid rear axle with optional rear air suspension, which is mainly useful for load leveling when towing.
What about technology and safety features?
Both SUVs come with advanced safety systems, blind-spot monitoring, multi-view cameras, and three-zone climate control. The Armada offers ProPilot 2.1 for hands-free driving and auto lane changes, which the Sequoia does not have.
Which SUV offers better reliability and resale value?
The Toyota Sequoia ranks higher in reliability and resale value. Predicted resale after 5 years is approximately 64.5% for the Sequoia and 50.5% for the Armada. Nissan does offer a slight price advantage at purchase.
Which SUV should I choose?
Choose the Sequoia if you prioritize towing capacity, hybrid fuel efficiency, higher resale value, and semi-aniline leather comfort. Choose the Armada for superior cargo space, third-row flexibility, advanced tech, and smoother ride quality with full air suspension.
