2022 Nissan Armada vs 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe made a statement with its distinctive sound and appearance. Aside from a "4xe" badge and sky blue accents, it closely resembled a regular Wrangler, with the power port being the main differentiator. When the battery was charged, the Wrangler 4xe could move silently, drawing attention with its pedestrian notification system as it navigated through places like Yosemite National Park. The test vehicle, painted in Firecracker Red and equipped with Rubicon trim, was priced at $66,690, including destination charges. Inside, the Wrangler 4xe maintained the classic Wrangler interior with some unique touches like blue seat stitching and PHEV-specific gauges. The layout was practical, with controls designed for functionality, and the interior offered a blend of rugged simplicity and improved materials.

The 2022 Nissan Armada was a large and imposing SUV, designed to transport seven to eight passengers comfortably. Its exterior featured sculptural details, standard LED lighting, and chrome accents, giving it a luxurious appearance. The Armada's size was evident, with dimensions of 208.9 inches in length and a height of nearly 76 inches. It offered a range of wheel options, with the 22-inch diamond-cut aluminum-alloy wheels on the Platinum trim adding a touch of elegance. The Armada's interior was spacious, with comfortable seating and a variety of configurations, including captain's chairs in the second row. The cargo space was generous, with up to 95.4 cubic feet available when the second and third rows were folded down.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors and a 17-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack. This setup delivered 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, allowing the Wrangler 4xe to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in six seconds. The battery provided an estimated 21 miles of electric-only driving, with a combined efficiency rating of 49 MPGe. In hybrid mode, the EPA rated its fuel economy at 20 mpg combined, with a total driving range of 370 miles. The Wrangler 4xe offered three powertrain modes: Hybrid, Electric, and e-Save, allowing drivers to choose between maximizing power, running on electric power, or conserving battery charge for specific situations.

The 2022 Nissan Armada was powered by a naturally aspirated 5.6-liter V8 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. It came with a seven-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive as standard and four-wheel drive available. The Armada's fuel economy was rated at 14 mpg city/19 mpg highway/16 mpg combined for RWD models, and slightly lower for 4WD versions. Despite its size and weight, the Armada offered strong acceleration and a smooth ride, thanks to its four-wheel independent suspension. It could tow up to 8,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it a capable choice for those needing to haul heavy loads.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe's interior was designed for practicality, with high door sills and grab handles to assist with entry and exit. The driving position was classic Wrangler, offering a high seating position and clear visibility. The center console had limited storage due to the hand-brake and transfer case lever, but rear passengers had access to air conditioning vents, USB ports, and a power outlet. Cargo space was somewhat limited, with 27.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 72.4 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Wrangler's design included a swing-out tailgate and flip-up rear glass window, which could be challenging in tight parking situations.

The 2022 Nissan Armada offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with seating for up to eight passengers. The first row featured power-adjustable bucket seats, while the second row could be configured with a bench seat or captain's chairs. The third row was roomy enough for three passengers and could be equipped with power folding and reclining functions. The Armada's cargo capacity was impressive, with 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 49.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 95.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. A power liftgate was standard on higher trims, making it easier to access the cargo area.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe featured a Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, offering Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. The system was intuitive but showing its age in terms of responsiveness and graphics. The Wrangler 4xe also provided useful information related to its plug-in hybrid powertrain, including charging status and time estimates. The Alpine sound system was capable of overcoming wind noise, but at high volumes, it made conversation difficult.

The 2022 Nissan Armada came equipped with NissanConnect technology, featuring a 12.3-inch color touchscreen with a customizable split-screen option. Standard tech features included a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless device charging, navigation, and hands-free text messaging. The audio system varied by trim, with Bose-branded audio available on higher trims. The Armada also offered multiple USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and wireless Apple CarPlay. Platinum models included a Family Entertainment System with dual headrest monitors and wireless headphones.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe offered advanced driving assistance systems, including blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and adaptive cruise control. The LED headlights with automatic high beams were effective, though rated marginal by the IIHS. The Wrangler received a four-star frontal-impact crash-test rating from the NHTSA and a three-star rollover resistance rating. However, it had a marginal rating for small-overlap frontal-impact protection for the driver.

The 2022 Nissan Armada included a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as Nissan Safety Shield 360, adaptive cruise control, and an intelligent rear-view mirror. It also had multiple airbags and trailer sway control on higher trims. While the IIHS and NHTSA had not released safety ratings for the 2022 Armada, its extensive safety features provided peace of mind for drivers and passengers.