15 MPG combined. To be blunt, nobody buys a 2017 Nissan Armada 4WD expecting Prius-like efficiency. This is a full-size, body-on-frame SUV, designed for hauling families, boats, and everything in between. The Armada’s mission isn’t sipping fuel; it’s conquering highways, towing trailers, and providing a comfortable, spacious ride, regardless of what’s underfoot. Its fuel economy is a necessary compromise, not a selling point.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Nissan Armada 4WD at 13 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. That city figure reflects the fuel demands of stop-and-go traffic and the strain the 5.6L V8 puts on the drivetrain during low-speed maneuvers. The highway figure, while still not stellar, at least allows for some extended cruising range. Remember this vehicle weighs close to 6,000 pounds, a key factor in its fuel consumption. With that weight moving down the road, physics dictates a certain level of fuel usage will be required.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Nissan Armada 4WD at $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG rating, and using average national fuel prices. Considering the current fluctuation in gas prices, this number might seem high, or even low, depending on where and how you drive, but it’s a reasonable benchmark for potential running costs. Owners should be prepared for this expense when budgeting for vehicle ownership, especially if they find themselves using the Armada primarily for city driving or towing.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a helpful baseline, real-world MPG can vary significantly depending on driving habits, terrain, and load. Armada drivers frequently report seeing figures close to the EPA estimates, especially if they prioritize smooth acceleration and maintain consistent highway speeds. However, aggressive driving, frequent towing, or navigating hilly terrain can easily drop fuel economy below 13 MPG. Conversely, long highway trips with minimal traffic might yield slightly better results than the EPA’s number. Be realistic, if you primarily use this vehicle for short trips near home, that 13 mpg figure is not going to be easy to beat.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2017 Nissan Armada’s fuel economy is generally in line with expectations for its class. For instance, the 2017 Toyota Sequoia 4WD also hovers around 13 MPG city and 17 MPG highway. The 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD, with its 5.3L V8, delivers roughly 16 MPG combined. The Ford Expedition, for more recent model years, typically offers slightly better gas mileage thanks to its turbocharged EcoBoost engines, but pre-2018 Expeditions are similar to the Armada. The prospective buyer’s priorities determine the importance of this comparison. If fuel economy is a primary concern, this segment probably isn’t the right place to be shopping. But for those prioritizing capability, reliability and space, it’s a matter of choosing the vehicle that best meets their needs within the limitations of full-size SUV fuel consumption. You can see all Nissan fuel economy data on our site. You can also compare ARMADA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the Armada’s inherent thirst, small adjustments to driving habits can have a noticeable impact on fuel consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, opting instead for smooth, gradual inputs. The Armada’s substantial weight requires more energy to accelerate and decelerate, so anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.

Tire pressure plays a critical role in fuel efficiency. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which can be found on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Removing excess cargo from the vehicle reduces the load on the engine and improves fuel economy. While the Armada is designed for hauling, carrying unnecessary items on a daily basis will negatively impact MPG.

During extended highway cruising, consider using the cruise control system. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize engine efficiency and can result in fuel savings. However, be mindful of hills and traffic conditions, as cruise control may not always be the most efficient option in variable terrain.