"Ideal" Large SUV: Nissan Armada

[Nissan Sport Editor]

Just released: The Nissan Armada was just ranked as the number one large SUV in AutoPacific’s 2009 Ideal Vehicle Awards (IVA).

"AutoPacific’s IVAs measure the fusion between expectations and reality by quantitative measuring how closely a vehicle matches an owner’s expectations. An ideal vehicle is one that meets owner’s expectations for the product. When asked what they would change about their new vehicle, buyers who want the least change are driving their ideal vehicle."

[MinisterofDOOM]

I love the Armada and the QX56. They're without a doubt the most attractive full size truck-based SUVs on the market. And they back it up with real truck capabilities while also managing to be really nice vehicles to go for a drive in. Nissan really nailed it with them...they deserve a lot of credit for doing such a good job with their first try at the segment.

In fact, I like the QX's looks so much, I always wished Infiniti would sell a QX-faced Titan as the TX56 to compete with the (now sadly axed) Lincoln Mark LT.

[SteveTheTech]

The Armada/QX have come along way since they came out. Although being the only Infiniti that was built in America in a brand new facility the initial quality was an issue with both models. I remember being at Nissan when the first Armadas came in and some of them had serious QC issues. The type of issues that would never make it past the Japanese inspections.

Once they got rid of the cheap center stack finisher with the 2008 models and refining the interior to a level appropriate for an upper level luxury SUV the QX is finally on par with the Escalade and other domestics that dominated the large luxury SUV market since the late 90s.

I too wish there was a pickup variation was offered by Infiniti. It is pretty easy to see why one was never produced, but I always gave Ford some credit for trying the market twice. Both of their offerings were decent trucks for people like me who would only use it to carry things a few times a year. Having a Burlwood interior within the cargo box would be an asset when carrying 1500 lbs of topsoil right?

Despite the current economic status my dealer is still moving a surprising amount of these large vehicles. Although I cannot blame anyone for upgrading to the new model the new creature comforts available make them a superior vehicle and the refinement of the ride quality and road stability make the vehicle a significant improvement

The new QX might be built off the Nissan Patrol and will be imported. I personally am pretty anxious to see what they come out with. The Patrol has a global reputation but has never been available to the US market.

[MinisterofDOOM]

Both of their offerings were decent trucks for people like me who would only use it to carry things a few times a year. Having a Burlwood interior within the cargo box would be an asset when carrying 1500 lbs of topsoil right?

The Blackwood was a bit weak as truck capability goes, but it was still nice to look at. I'd love one just for the uniqueness.The Mark LT was a real truck, though. Every bit as capable as the F150, with "real" two-speed 4wd and two bed lengths available.