If you are looking for a Nissan SUV with 3rd-row seating, you actually have two options. Both the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder and Nissan Armada are capable SUVs with plenty of space inside for your family and cargo.
Below we detail some of the key differences between the two Nissan 3rd-row SUVs to help figure out which is the best for you.
Performance
The new Pathfinder is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine that produces 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. Connected to the engine is a new nine-speed automatic transmission. The Pathfinder comes standard with FWD and has AWD available. The FWD model can tow 3,500 pounds, while the AWD model can pull an impressive 6,000 pounds. The Pathfinder is a capable SUV when it comes to towing.
Fuel economy in the city/highway sits at around 21/27 mpg.
2022 Nissan Pathfinder
The 2022 Armada is a more powerful Nissan SUV with 3rd-row seating. Under the hood sits a huge 5.6L V6 engine that makes 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. Depending on the configuration, a seven-speed automatic transmission directs power to either the rear wheels or all four wheels. With the larger engine, the Armada can provide greater towing capacity. Regardless of RWD or AWD model, the Armada can tow a staggering 8,500 pounds.
Consequently, the fuel economy is worse than the Pathfinder, with a city/highway rating of 14/19 mpg.
Size & Space
Both the Pathfinder and Armada are offered in a seven or eight-person configuration. This is accomplished by having either a bench seat in the second row or two captain-chairs instead.
The Armada is by far the larger of the two. The SUV is about 10 inches longer, five inches taller, and two inches wider. Additionally, it has over two more inches of ground clearance for better peace of mind when driving in deep snow or flooded roads. View more specs on nissanusa.com
2022 Nissan Armada
The Pathfinder is by no means a small car either with a length of 197.7 inches and a width of 77.9 inches.
Regardless of which is Nissan SUV with 3rd-row seating is picked, there is plenty of space inside. While the Armada is more prominent on the outside, both models provide a comparable amount of passenger space. The most significant differences between the two lie in the first-row headroom and second-row legroom. The Pathfinder has about an inch and half more first-row headroom, while the Armada provides five additional inches of legroom to the second row. Space in the third-row is virtually identical, with about 37 inches of headroom and 28 inches of legroom.
Cargo Space
When the third row is in use, both models provide around 16 cubic feet of cargo space. However, when the third or second rows are not in use, the Armada brings an advantage. With the third row down, the Armada offers 49.9 cubic feet of space and extends it to 92.6 cubic feet when the second row folds. The Pathfinder still has plenty of space, with 45.0 cubic feet of space when the third row is folded and 80.5 cubic feet when the second row folds.
Technology
Both the Pathfinder and Armada run Nissan’s most up-to-date infotainment system. The sleek and responsive interface comes with various connectivity options that include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The system occupies either an 8 or 9-inch center display in the Pathfinder and a 12.3-inch display in the Armada. Both models are available with a premium 13-speaker audio system and a digital gauge display. An entertainment package allows the Armada to have two displays for second-row passengers to enjoy.
Regardless of your choice, both the Pathfinder and Armada are leaders in their class and will provide great value and utility.
2022 Nissan Armada 
2022 Nissan Armada
2022 Nissan Pathfinder 
2022 Nissan Pathfinder 
2022 Nissan Pathfinder
