Nissan Armada vs. INFINITI QX80: What’s the Difference?
When the Nissan Armada vs. INFINITI QX80 already have so many similar features, comparing the two feels unnecessary. However, each one comes with a few subtle differences that still make them rather unique.
At Roswell INFINITI, we help buyers find the car they’ve always wanted with in-depth comparison guides that tell them everything they need to know.
| Category | INFINITI QX80 | Nissan Armada |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Class | Full-size luxury SUV | Full-size SUV |
| Seating Capacity | Seven | Eight |
| Standard Engine | 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 450 hp | 425 hp |
| Torque | 516 lb-ft | 516 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy | 16 MPG (city), 19 MPG (highway) | 16 MPG (city), 20 MPG (highway) |
| Max Towing | 8,500 lbs | 8,500 lbs |
| Max Cargo Volume | 101 cu. ft. | 97.1 cu. ft. |
| Starting MSRP | $83,750 (up to $112,195 for top trims) | $58,840 ($63,530 for standard luxury) |
| Basic Warranty | 4 years and 60,000 miles | 3 years and 36,000 miles |
| Best For | The QX80 offers slightly more maximum cargo space, a luxurious cabin, and a comfortable passenger experience | A practical and well-rounded choice for families |
Nissan Armada vs. INFINITI QX80: Price and Value
Both models offer a strong balance between the initial price and roster of features. The Nissan Armada is well-suited to families who want extra space and speed for everyday life, while the INFINITI QX80 is better for couples or individuals who prefer luxury features.
| Cost Factor | INFINITI QX80 | Nissan Armada |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $85,590 | $58,840 |
| Top Trim MSRP | $112,195 | $63,530 |
| Standard Warranty | 4 years, 60,000 miles | 3 years, 36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 6 years, 70,000 miles | 5 years, 60,000 miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | Oil changes, oil filter changes, and tire rotations for the first 7,500 miles, with more maintenance at 15,000 and 30,000 miles | Three oil and two filter changes for the first two years or 24,000 miles |
| Best Value Trim | Plentiful maintenance options and a long warranty for buyers who want their vehicle for a long time | A solid selection of complimentary maintenance and standard warranties for most buyers |
Performance Specs: Which SUV Has the Better Engine?
Your engine can make or break your driving experience, affecting everything from acceleration to speed. The INFINITI QX80 has a powerful engine with different options depending on the drivetrain you prefer, making it a more flexible option than the Nissan Armada.
| Performance Spec | INFINITI QX80 | Nissan Armada |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 450 hp | 400 hp |
| Torque | 516 lb-ft | 516 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | 2WD or 4WD, depending on trim | 4WD |
| Performance Upgrade | Heated third-row seating, climate-control systems, and chrome exteriors | Forged-alloy wheels, shock absorbers and stabilizer bars for off-road driving, electric-power assist |
| Best Performance Advantage | Higher horsepower and flexible drivetrain options | Rugged, off-road-ready hardware |
Interior Comfort and Luxury Features
Each trip should feel as comfortable as if you were lounging at home. The INFINITI QX80 is well-known as a luxury brand with its broad comfort and convenience-focused features, while the Nissan Armada has a smaller suite to choose from.
| Interior Feature | INFINITI QX80 | Nissan Armada |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | Up to seven | Up to eight |
| Available Captain’s Chairs | Yes (on most trims) | Yes, depending on trim |
| Heated Front Seats | Yes | Yes, depending on trim |
| Ventilated Front Seats | Yes | Yes, depending on trim |
| Massaging Front Seats | Yes, depending on trim | Yes, depending on trim |
| Premium Audio | Klipsch Audio System | Bose or Fender Premium Audio System |
| Panoramic Moonroof | Yes | Yes, depending on trim |
| Interior Materials | Color customized Graphite TailorFit® (similar to nappa leather) and wood trims | Quilted leather, TailorFit®, or a mix of leather and quilted Ultrasuede seat upholstery |
| Best Interior Angle | Exceptional craftsmanship and interior color customization for a one-of-a-kind look | Comfortable, practical interior with solid versatility and multiple family-friendly features |
Cargo Space and Passenger Room
Large families or couples who regularly bring friends will need extra room. The Nissan Armada is roomier than the INFINITI QX80, but you may prefer the latter for its exceptional luxury features.
| Space Category | INFINITI QX80 | Nissan Armada |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | Seven | Eight |
| Max Cargo Volume | 101 cubic feet | 97.1 cubic feet |
| Third-Row Access | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | The QX80 offers slightly more maximum cargo space, with a luxurious cabin and a comfortable passenger experience | The Armada provides generous cargo capacity and passenger room |
Technology and Infotainment
While both vehicles have similar displays and standard technology from Apple and Google, their main difference lies in their audio systems. Klipsch is known for its bass-boosting technology, while Bose has stronger surround sound.
| Technology Feature | INFINITI QX80 | Nissan Armada |
|---|---|---|
| Main Display | 14.3-inch high definition | 14.3-inch high definition |
| Digital Gauge Display | 14.3-inch digital instrument cluster | 14.3-inch digital instrument cluster |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay® | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto™ | Yes | Yes |
| Google Built-In | Yes | Yes |
| Premium Audio | Klipsch Audio System | Bose or Fender Audio System |
| Head-Up Display | Yes | Yes |
| Parking Camera Tech | Around View Monitor® with a virtual 360° view | 3D Enhanced Intelligent Around View® Monitor |
| Best Tech Angle | Luxury-focused technology with immersive displays, premium audio, and advanced cameras | Modern connectivity and driver-focused technology with rugged capability features, especially on the PRO-4X trim |
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The safety conversation around the Armada vs. QX80 is almost neck and neck. Both vehicles do well in providing advanced parking, driving, and cruise control technology.
| Safety/Driver-Assist Feature | INFINITI QX80 | Nissan Armada |
|---|---|---|
| Forward Emergency Braking | Yes | Yes |
| Blind Spot Warning/Intervention | Yes | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning/Prevention | Yes | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Surround-View Camera | 3-D Around View Monitor, 180° Front Wide View Camera | 3D Enhanced Intelligent Around View® Monitor |
| Advanced Highway Assist | ProPILOT Assist 2.1 | ProPILOT Assist 2.1 (with Route Assist, Lane Change Assist, and Hands-Off Driving) |
| Best Safety Angle | Premium driver-assistance technology with advanced highway driving and enhanced visibility features for added confidence | Comprehensive suite of standard safety technologies with capability-focused camera views and family-friendly driver assistance |
Warranty, Maintenance, and Ownership Value
The warranty is one of the biggest differences between the Nissan Armada and the INFINITI QX80. The INFINITI QX80 offers more value for longer, which may be appealing to owners who plan to keep the car for a long time.
| Ownership Factor | INFINITI QX80 | Nissan Armada |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 years or 60,000 miles | 3 years or 36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 6 years or 70,000 miles | 5 years or 60,000 miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | Up to 3 oil changes and 3 tire rotations for up to 3 years or the designated mileage | Three oil and two filter changes for the first two years or 24,000 miles |
| Roadside Assistance | Yes (4 years) | Yes (3 years or 36,000 miles) |
| Ownership Advantage | Longer warranty coverage, more comprehensive complimentary maintenance, and a premium ownership experience | Lower cost of ownership with essential maintenance coverage and strong long-term reliability |
Nissan Armada vs. INFINITI QX80: Which SUV Is Better for Families?
Both vehicles are strong contenders for an all-purpose family vehicle. However, the INFINITI QX80 is a few steps ahead with its longer warranty and exceptional comfort.
| Family Need | Better Fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Towing Recreational Gear | Both | Both offer up to 8,500 lbs. of maximum towing capacity when properly equipped |
| Maximum Cargo Volume | INFINITI QX80 | Offers slightly more maximum cargo space, making it ideal for extra luggage, large sports equipment, and group road trips |
| Shared Powertrain Performance | Both | Both models are built on a shared twin-turbo V6 powertrain |
| Warranty Coverage | INFINITI QX80 | Longer basic and powertrain warranty coverage provides long-term peace of mind |
| Luxury Value | INFINITI QX80 | Combines greater horsepower, premium craftsmanship, advanced technology, and enhanced ownership benefits for luxury SUV buyers |
Reasons to Choose the INFINITI QX80 Over the Nissan Armada
Luxury is where the Nissan Armada vs. INFINITI QX80 conversation has a clear winner. The sheer volume of interior customization options, comfort features, and longer warranty ensures you’ll be enjoying a premium experience for a long time.
Reasons to Choose the Nissan Armada Over the INFINITI QX80
If your primary concerns are around cargo space, safety, and day-to-day utility, the Nissan Armada will get the job done. Small families and active couples get great value out of this well-rounded model and its available trims.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Nissan Armada or INFINITI QX80?
The Nissan Armada is an excellent choice for shoppers seeking a capable full-size SUV with strong towing capability, generous passenger space, and a well-rounded suite of security and tech features.
However, the INFINITI QX80 is ideal for buyers who want the same capabilities paired with premium interior craftsmanship, higher horsepower, advanced technology, and exceptional comfort in hot or cold weather.
If you’re comparing the Nissan Armada and INFINITI QX80, the best way to experience the difference is from behind the wheel. Browse our current INFINITI QX80 inventory, review our financing options, or schedule a test drive today.
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