2022 Nissan Armada vs 2021 GMC Yukon

For the 2021 GMC Yukon, GMC presented itself as "professional grade," yet effectively positioned itself as "premium grade," balancing between Chevrolet and Cadillac within the General Motors family. Buick also occupied this segment, but while Buick leaned more towards a plush, softer premium, GMC delivered a rugged yet refined aesthetic.

The revamped 2021 GMC Yukon was the brand's truck-based full-size SUV, available in both standard and extended body styles and in various trims, namely SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. Pricing started from $50,700. The Yukon AT4 was introduced for off-road enthusiasts with a better approach angle, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. However, a considerable portion of Yukon purchases, about half, were expected to be the upscale Denali trim. GMC’s senior marketing manager highlighted that Yukon buyers preferred paying for substance rather than just a flashy badge.

After driving nearly 200 miles in the redesigned 2021 GMC Yukon Denali, the logic behind its upscale positioning was apparent. Priced at $83,720 with the Denali Ultimate option package, it was far from cheap, yet it commanded attention. The Midnight Blue paint and 22-inch wheels contributed to its upscale appearance, featuring an intricate grille, vent-style fender badges, chrome trim, and appealing rear design. While somewhat pricier than Chevrolet Tahoe’s equivalent, GMC’s attention to detail in trim and aesthetic appeal was evident. Notably, the Denali trim boasted an exclusive dashboard design, augmented by real wood trim, leather-wrapped panels, and sophisticated interior stitching, particularly in the Denali Ultimate Package, which added a panoramic sunroof to the equation. This unique approach set the Denali apart from both its Chevrolet and other Yukon siblings, creating a distinct and refined cabin environment not found elsewhere.

Meanwhile, the 2022 Nissan Armada, having shed its Pathfinder prefix since its early years, traced its lineage back to the Nissan Titan and internationally sold Patrol SUV. The second-generation production moved to Japan in 2017, establishing a familial bond with the luxurious Infiniti QX80.

At 208.9 inches long, 75.8 inches tall, and 79.9 inches wide, the Armada presented a domineering presence. With ground clearance ranging between 9.1 to 9.2 inches and a step-in height nearly two feet high, it required the standard side-step rails for easier access. The Armada's exterior showcased sculptural details complemented by standard LED lighting and a tasteful chrome finish, including stylish front fender vents. It was available in seven colors, with 18-inch wheels standard on S and SV models, 20-inch on the SL trim, and 22-inch diamond-cut aluminum-alloy wheels on the Platinum trim. These larger wheels matched the SUV’s grandeur, filling the wheel arches aptly and enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal with a commanding presence.

For the 2021 GMC Yukon, three engine options were available. The standard choice for non-Denali trims was a 355-horsepower 5.3-liter V8 engine. The Denali, however, came exclusively with a 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engine. A 3.0-liter turbo-diesel inline six-cylinder engine was set to be an option for most trims except the AT4 due to its different front end design aimed at better approach angles.

The Denali’s 6.2-liter V8 was remarkable, delivering 420 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 460 lb-ft of torque at 4,100 rpm, paired with a precise ten-speed automatic transmission. This combination provided robust acceleration and the beloved V8 burble at idle. However, fuel efficiency was not its forte. On a testing loop with a passenger and two children, the Yukon achieved 14.4 mpg with the 4WD system in Auto mode. A shorter drive with only the driver and 2WD mode yielded 16.2 mpg. The official EPA ratings were 14 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined for the 4WD version, showing a decline from the previous generation.

New engineering designs, such as the independent rear suspension and available Four-Corner Air Ride suspension with adaptive damping, significantly improved ride quality and handling. The large 22-inch wheels, however, compromised smoothness over uneven terrains despite the advanced suspension. The Active Response 4WD system, including an Autotrac two-speed transfer case, Traction Select modes, and an electronic limited-slip differential, enhanced both cornering performance and wet traction. Although the Denali wasn’t an off-road model, the AT4 trim handled off-road conditions impressively. The towing capacity for the Denali stood at 8,400 pounds for 2WD and 8,300 pounds for 4WD, slightly less than the previous generation and competitors like the Ford Expedition.

The 2022 Nissan Armada featured a 5.6-liter V8 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel drive was standard with an available 4WD system, both utilizing a seven-speed automatic transmission. Fuel efficiency ratings were modest, with RWD models achieving 14 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined, while the 4WD models were slightly lower.

Although specific 0-60 mph times were not disclosed, the Armada felt powerful enough to swiftly navigate city traffic or merge onto highways. Its braking system included standard vented disc brakes front and rear with hydraulic brake assist, showing its capability to handle its weight efficiently. The four-wheel independent suspension with double wishbone design and twin-tube Hitachi shock absorbers delivered a controlled and smooth ride. Despite the large 22-inch wheels on the Platinum model, the Armada managed a comfortable ride over rough Michigan roads. Off-roading potential was indicated by its ground clearance, radiator skid plate, and substantial torque, although limited off-road testing was conducted.

The 2021 GMC Yukon made substantial improvements in passenger and cargo space due to its new independent rear suspension.

Front-seat space remained similar to the previous model, with Denali trims offering leather upholstery and perforated inserts. Both front seats were heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable in 12 ways. The Ultimate Package added a power sliding console for extra convenience. However, the front seats could feel hard after prolonged use, and the door panel edges were not the most comfortable for elbows.

The second-row seats, now sliding and folding flat for better cargo space, were heated in the Denali trim. Power release functions facilitated access to the third-row seats. The third-row bench was significantly more comfortable, supporting adults without contortions and improving upon previous complaints.

Cargo space was impressive: 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row (41.5 cubic feet for the Denali XL), 72.6 cubic feet with the third row folded (93.8 cubic feet for the Denali XL), and a maximum capacity of 122.9 cubic feet (144.7 cubic feet for the Denali XL). These figures were competitive, even reaching minivan-like capacities.

The 2022 Nissan Armada, also large, provided room for seven to eight passengers. The first row featured comfortable bucket seats, with 10-way power adjustment for the driver and six-way for the front passenger, including power lumbar support. The second row offered a choice between a 60/40-split bench seat or optional captain’s chairs with a removable center console. The third row could comfortably accommodate three passengers, available with power-folding and reclining features.

Base models came with cloth seats, while the SV trim used durable "Prima-Tex" cloth. The SL models had leather-trimmed seats, and the Platinum trim offered luxurious quilted leather. A one-touch fold mechanism helped access the third-row seats easily.

Cargo capacity for the Armada was 16.5 cubic feet with all seats up, expanding to 49.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a total of 95.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. This made the Armada a practical choice for both passenger and cargo transport, supporting a payload capacity of about 1,500 pounds.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali with the Ultimate Package boasted a comprehensive infotainment system. The standard 10.2-inch touchscreen included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and GMC Connected Services. Over-the-air updates kept it current.

Extra features included wireless charging, a navigation system, a 14-speaker Bose premium audio, and a dual 12.6-inch Rear Seat Media system. However, the rear entertainment setup didn’t support DVDs, requiring streaming solutions. Despite the occasional technical glitch, it provided ample entertainment for young passengers.

The Yukon’s tech package was further enhanced with a 15-inch color head-up display, a rear camera mirror, multiple surround-view camera angles, and parking assist sensors.

The 2022 Nissan Armada came with standard NissanConnect technology, utilizing a 12.3-inch touchscreen capable of split-screen functionality. Standard features included a WiFi hotspot, wireless device charging (all but the S model), NissanConnect services, navigation, hands-free messaging, rear-view monitor, satellite radio, and keyless entry with push-button start.

Audio systems varied by trim: base models had a four-speaker system, SV added two more speakers, and the SL and Platinum boasted a 13-speaker Bose system. All models offered USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and steering wheel audio controls. The Platinum trim also provided a Family Entertainment System with dual 8-inch monitors and HDMI input, accommodating modern digital needs.

GMC equipped the 2021 Yukon with advanced driving assistance systems. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high-beam headlights. Teen Driver technology, rear-seat reminders, and OnStar services added to its protective measures.

Higher trims like the SLT included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking were exclusive to the Denali trim.

Dynamic safety systems like adaptive cruise control and lane assistance worked seamlessly during long drives, providing smooth responses to traffic variations. Crash-test ratings were not available, but the Yukon’s significant weight suggested robust protection against most vehicles.

For the 2022 Nissan Armada, safety was paramount with Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering features like high beam assist, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear automatic braking, and cross-traffic alert. Other active safety technologies included adaptive cruise control, intelligent forward collision warning, lane intervention, and rear-door alert.

The Armada also featured dual-stage front airbags, side impact airbags, and curtain airbags across all three rows. Trailer sway control and brake controllers were standard on higher trims, making it a solid option for frequent towing.

Safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were pending at the time.