The 2022 Nissan Armada 2WD with the 5.6L V8 gets 16 MPG combined, which isn’t class-leading, but consider the context. This isn’t a hybrid; this is a body-on-frame SUV designed to haul a large family and tow substantial loads. Fuel efficiency is a secondary concern for the Armada buyer; capability and space are important. This is a vehicle purchased by those who need its specific skillset, and they’re willing to accept the fuel costs.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Armada at 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the Armada’s weight and large engine result in less-than-ideal figures. The highway number is more palatable and achievable during steady cruising. While 19 MPG might seem low compared to smaller crossovers, remember the Armada is pushing a lot of air at highway speeds, and the 5.6L V8 needs fuel to maintain momentum even when cruising. The 7-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth, doesn’t do much to improve fuel economy; it’s geared more for strength and towing than outright efficiency. For a look at all Nissan fuel economy data, you can browse our brand-specific pages. Those who prioritize fuel efficiency probably aren’t considering a vehicle like this.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,600 for the 2022 Nissan Armada 2WD. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a mix of city and highway driving, and assumes national average fuel prices. This is a good benchmark, but your actual cost may vary depending on how you drive and local fuel costs. Someone who primarily drives in city traffic will likely exceed $3,600, while someone who does mostly highway miles and avoids aggressive driving might come in slightly below.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, towing, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel economy. Gentle acceleration, anticipating traffic, and maintaining speed on the highway can help you achieve figures closer to the EPA estimates. Owners report a range of fuel economy, but most find the EPA numbers to be reasonably accurate if they drive carefully. Expect to see lower numbers if you regularly use the Armada for its intended purpose: hauling people and cargo or towing trailers. For a year-by-year comparison of ARMADA MPG across all years, see our model-specific pages.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2022 Nissan Armada’s fuel economy is in line with other full-size, body-on-frame SUVs. The Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD with the 5.3L V8 is rated at 15 MPG combined, while the Ford Expedition 2WD with the EcoBoost V6 manages 19 MPG combined. The Toyota Sequoia, with its 5.7L V8, gets an EPA-estimated 15 MPG combined. Although the Expedition beats the Armada, it costs more, and some buyers prefer the proven reliability of Nissan’s naturally aspirated V8. These differences are significant for buyers who need the capability of a large SUV but are still mindful of fuel costs. However, those considering the Armada typically prioritize space, towing capacity, and overall value, accepting a slightly lower MPG in exchange for these attributes.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the Armada’s fuel consumption, maximizing fuel economy requires effort. Avoid aggressive acceleration, especially from a standstill. The larger the vehicle and engine, the more fuel is wasted by sudden bursts of speed. Gradual acceleration allows the engine to operate more efficiently, minimizing fuel consumption.

Tire pressure plays a significant role. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side door jamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. An engine running at idle consumes fuel without covering any distance. This is especially important in city driving, where frequent stops are inevitable.

When possible, use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, both of which decrease fuel efficiency. Cruise control helps the engine operate at its most efficient point, maximizing MPG on long drives.