Starting at
Starting at
| 480 | Max Torque (lb-ft) | 394 |
| 17/23 MPG | Fuel Economy (city/highway) | 14/19 MPG |
| 104.6 | Max Cargo Space (cu.ft.) | 86.2 |
If you are searching for the perfect three-row vehicle for your family outings, you may be finding it challenging to fish through the wide selection of offerings on the market. You're in luck, though, because today we are going to compare two of the most popular vehicles in the segment. Welcome to this head to head battle: 2020 Ford Expedition vs 2020 Nissan Armada. These two full-size SUVs are both very popular and for good reasons, but one is definitely better than the other. And while the winner may not be evident from the start, an in-depth analysis will bring out the truth. Which one will come out on top? Keep reading to find out.
One of the biggest differences between the two SUVs is in relation to space. While both vehicles can hold up to eight people, the differences can become evident in the cargo area. The 2020 Ford Expedition offers 19.3 cu.ft. of space behind the third row. By folding the last row of seating down, you can expand this area to 57.5 cu.ft. If you find yourself still needing more room, you can also fold down the second row of seating to gain access to the maximum 104.6 cu.ft. of cargo space.
Meanwhile, the Nissan Armada offers 20.3 cu.ft. of space behind the third row of seating. Folding down that last row will get you 49.1 cu.ft. of space, and folding both back rows down will grant you 86.2 cu.ft. Those are very different numbers. If space is a significant deciding factor for your next set of wheels, the decision to choose the Expedition may have already been made! But if the end-all choice comes down to other factors for you, this full analysis may be able to help you out.
Big SUVs require big engines. You need something powerful to move eight people and all of their gear to the desired destination. However, a truly well-made SUV not only has good engine specs but significant towing power and impressive fuel economy. So let's look at how these two vehicles compare in those categories.
All 2020 Ford Expedition models are powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 motor mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 2WD. You can always opt for 4WD as well. The standard powertrain generates 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque (400 hp and 485 lb-ft of torque on the Platinum trim) and can haul up to 9,300 pounds. That’s a best-in-class rating, and it means that you can pull anything from a trailer to an RV or even a boat.
You can also add the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package to any trim. This adds the Pro-Trailer Backup Assist system, 3.73 electronic slip differential, 2-speed automatic 4WD, an integrated brake controller, and a heavy-duty radiator. And even with all of that, the fuel economy for this beast is set at 19 MPG combined (17 city/23 highway).
On the other hand, the 2020 Nissan Armada is powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine and a 7-speed automatic transmission. Pushing out 390 hp and 394 lb-ft of torque, this powertrain can haul up to 8,500 pounds. And, like the Expedition, there is an option between 2WD and 4WD. The average fuel economy is set lower at only 16 MPG combined (14 city/19 highway) with 2WD and 15 MPG combined (13 city/18 highway) with 4WD.
Even though the Nissan Armada has slightly higher horsepower, the Ford Expedition has better torque, more towing power and gets better gas mileage making it the better option in terms of performance.
The inside of a vehicle is arguably just as important as all other factors. An SUV should be comfortable, have entertainment features, and tie in safety features. These two vehicles both have a lot to offer in all of those categories, but one has a slight edge over the other. Let's see which one.
The Ford Expedition XLT comes with cloth upholstery, carpeted floors, and 15 cupholders, this SUV will make everyone in the clan comfortable and happy. Advanced technology inside this model includes remote start, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power accessories, and cruise control. The Sync 3 infotainment interface is displayed on an 8-inch touchscreen that operates with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE Wifi hotspot. Furthermore, Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features has also been made standard. This comes with a reverse sensing system, emergency braking, and pre-collision assist.
Next is the Limited trim. Adding ambient cabin lighting, you can set a relaxing mood for long drives. It also features power-adjustable pedals, leather-trimmed upholstery, and an upgraded 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. Extra safety features that have been included on this trim are blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and trailer tow monitoring. The King Ranch is an all-new for the 2020 production line with mostly cosmetic changes, including premium leather upholstery and unique badging. The seats are also heated and ventilated in the front and heated-only in the back. A 360-degree parking camera system has also been installed to help you avoid fender benders from all angles.
The top-of-the-line Platinum model is the luxury Expedition. It adds unique leather upholstery and wood accents to the interior for a sleek and stylish look. Added safety features include an enhanced active park assist that can handle both perpendicular and parallel parking spots, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology, and a forward sensing system. A panoramic sunroof has also been added.
Meanwhile, the 2020 Nissan Armada SV starts things off with 60/40 split-folding rear seats, but these seats are not power-folding/power-reclining like they are in the Expedition. Safety features include front and back parking sensors, emergency braking, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The infotainment interface is displayed on an 8-inch touchscreen that functions with Bluetooth, HD radio, satellite radio, and a 13-speaker Bose sound system.
The SL model includes remote start technology, leather seating, and driver-seat memory settings. It also comes with a 360-degree parking camera system with moving-object detection. The Premium package adds a sunroof and a few more safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Stepping into the luxury levels, the Platinum model features ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. It also comes with a heated steering wheel, leather accents on the doors, blind-spot intervention, and lane-keeping assist. If you add the top-tier Platinum Reserve Package, it adds stylish two-toned leather upholstery and a Captain’s Chair for the driver.
Both of these vehicles have a lot to offer in terms of the interior. However, the Ford provides more options, especially safety features. This makes the Expedition better in regard to the interior.
The 2020 Ford Expedition XLT rides on 18-inch wheels and features fog lamps for enhanced visibility, roof rails for extra storage, and running boards to help kids and elderly passengers get inside. It also includes a Class IV Trailer Hitch Receiver, a chrome grille, and body-colored accents. This model can be equipped with the Black Accent Package or the FX4 Off-Road Package.
Next, the Limited rolls on 20-inch wheels and comes with LED taillights, rain-sensing wipers, and power-deployable running boards. The all-new King Ranch trim rides on larger 22-inch wheels and features all-LED exterior lighting and a sunroof. Finally, the Platinum also gets 22-inch wheels, and it comes with a hands-free foot-activated liftgate, a satin aluminum grille, and roof rail crossbars.
Switching gears to the 2020 Nissan Armada SV, this model rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and features roof rails, LED headlights, and heated side mirrors. If you add the Driver Package, you can get fog lamps and a power liftgate. Next is the SL trim, which includes 20-inch wheels, rain-sensing wipers, and auto-dimming side mirrors. If you add the Premium Package, you can enjoy having a sunroof. The Platinum rides on 20-inch wheels and features fog lights and a power liftgate. Finally, the Platinum Reserve Package installs 22-inch wheels and adds a unique exterior trim.
Both the Expedition and Armada have a plethora of exterior options. However, the Ford offers more from the get-go, such as the running boards to assist entrance and exit to and from the vehicle. With that in mind, the Expedition is the better choice here.
Nestled in Albany, NY, DePaula Ford is your home for all things Ford. As America’s favorite automaker, Ford has cultivated a reputation for building sturdy, reliable SUVs that are great for families. We’ve got compact, mid-size, and full-size SUVs to choose from. Whichever body style is best suited to your family’s needs, we will help you get it. Our on-site finance team will assist you in securing the most competitive financing options to fit into your budget. We also have a team of certified technicians who can help you with routine maintenance and even major repairs. Get in touch with us or stop by for a test drive in one of our new or pre-owned vehicles today!
*Images, fuel economy, and other stats, may reflect higher trim levels, options, or features that may result in a higher cost from the starting MSRP.
MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, additional options, and possible destination charges. Dealers set own prices.
