Nissan Armada vs Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ was offered in XLE and Limited trims, with options for single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) or dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD), and two battery sizes. Models with the larger battery were priced higher but provided enhanced power, performance, and range, with prices ranging from $36,495 to $46,895, including the destination charge. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, which was standard on the Limited trim. This upgrade cost $3,000, transforming the XLE into the XLE Plus. Additional options included Heavy Metal paint, carpeted floor mats, a carpeted cargo mat, door sill protectors, and wheel locks, bringing the MSRP to $40,468. The 2026 bZ's restyled appearance was more appealing, especially with body-color trim, although some colors retained the black overfender trim. Inside, the dashboard and center console were redesigned for a cleaner look, with a 14-inch center touchscreen and integrated climate control. However, the digital driver display was criticized for its placement and readability.

The 2026 Nissan Armada, despite its large SUV stature, sported a design that avoided the typical bus-like appearance. It retained a boxy shape with hard angles but incorporated softer curves on the bumpers and fenders, providing a balanced contrast. The Armada's imposing grille and running lights added to its sporty aesthetic. Compared to American SUVs like the Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Tahoe, the Armada was more svelte, aligning closer in size to the Toyota Sequoia. The NISMO variant, with its Tokyo street style, featured unique elements like bright red accent lines and a lowered body. Inside, the Armada boasted a red and black theme with microsuede and metal pedal covers. The interior design and quality were exceptional, with a center stack that combined analog controls and sharp screens. The Platinum Reserve trim added luxurious features like quilted-leather upholstery and massaging front seats.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of performance options. The XLE with FWD came with a single electric motor and a 57.7-kWh battery, delivering 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles and an efficiency rating of 26 kWh/100 miles. The optional 74.7-kWh battery increased power to 224 hp and extended the range to 314 miles, maintaining the same efficiency. Dual-motor models, equipped with the 74.7-kWh battery, produced 338 hp and offered varying ranges and efficiencies depending on the trim. The bZ could be recharged using a DC fast charger or a Level 2 home charger, with different charging times based on the battery size. Efficiency tests showed favorable results, with the bZ averaging 4.5 miles per kWh in Eco mode. However, the bZ lacked one-pedal driving capability, and its handling on winding roads was limited by the tires and steering.

The 2026 Nissan Armada featured a twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing 425 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, making it one of the most powerful in its class. The NISMO variant increased output to 460 hp with premium fuel. The Armada's nine-speed automatic transmission provided smooth power delivery, and its air suspension offered excellent body control and ride quality. The Armada's towing capacity was 8,500 pounds, and its brakes provided secure stopping power. The air suspension, available on select trims, enhanced the Armada's handling, although the steering could have been more precise. The Armada's fuel economy was EPA-estimated at 16 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined, comparable to other full-size SUVs.

The 2026 Toyota bZ, built on a skateboard-style EV platform, offered 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making it easy to enter and exit. The front seats featured standard height adjustment and eight-way power adjustment, providing comfort and support. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage options, including a large bin under the center armrest and a tray beneath the console. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed good legroom, although foot space was limited. The bZ offered 27.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, with a total of 56.9 cubic feet when the seats were folded.

The 2026 Nissan Armada offered seven- or eight-passenger seating, with captain's chairs available on higher trims. The Armada's "Zero Gravity" cushioning provided comfort for long rides, and the front seats offered heating, cooling, and massage functions. Visibility was good, aided by 360-degree cameras. The Armada's controls were user-friendly, with hard switches for climate functions and a touchscreen for navigation and settings. Cargo capacity was 20.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came with a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The driver display was criticized for its placement and readability. The infotainment system, running Toyota Audio Multimedia, was generally easy to use but lacked a home screen for simultaneous data display. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with various connected service plans available. The Drive Connect feature powered the navigation system and voice assistant, which performed well in tests.

The 2026 Nissan Armada featured two 12.3-inch displays on the base SV, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SL trim added Google Maps, Google Assistant, and other features. Higher trims included a 12-speaker Klipsch stereo and additional USB ports. ProPilot Assist 2.2 with hands-free operation was optional on most trims. The Platinum and Pro-4X trims offered a built-in dash cam and other advanced features. NissanConnect services provided additional safety and convenience options.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which included features like high-beam assist, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist added subtle braking and steering inputs for safety. The Limited trim offered additional features like Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park Assist. The bZ received mixed safety ratings from the IIHS, with high marks for front-crash avoidance but poor ratings for headlights.

The 2026 Nissan Armada included standard driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and automatic emergency braking. While crash-test ratings were unavailable, the Armada's comprehensive safety features provided reassurance. The Armada also came with multiple airbags, including a front far-side airbag on the Platinum Reserve.