Nissan Pathfinder Armada.(Product/Service Evaluation)

Highs | Acceleration, transmission, roomy second-row seat, towing, cargo capacity. Lows | Ride, fuel economy, visibility, engine noise, turning circle, squeaks and rattles.

Although it finished third in this competitive group, the Nissan Pathfinder Armada achieved a relatively high score among the large SUVs we've tested. The Armada is very roomy and relatively agile for its size. The third-row seat is useable by adults, and cargo room is almost minivan-like. The strong powertrain makes it quick, but fuel economy is a paltry 13 mpg overall. Complaints centered on the stiff ride, limited visibility, and insubstantial interior trim.

THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE

Body motions are well-controlled, but the ride is quite stiff. Wind and road noise are moderate, but the engine noise and squeaks and rattles from interior trim grow tiresome.

The Armada corners responsively for its size, with well-contained body lean. It reaches the limits of its tire grip fairly early, but in a gradual, predictable way. However, it posted the lowest speed of the group in our avoidance maneuver, with too much tail slide before the standard stability control kicked in. A large 44-foot turning circle makes the vehicle difficult to park.

The 305-hp, 5.6-liter V8 delivers smooth, strong performance, and the five-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive. The Armada can tow up to 6,500 pounds or, with an optional towing package, 9,100 pounds. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a very ...