15 MPG combined won’t make the 2023 Nissan Armada a fuel-sipping champion, but nobody buying this full-size, body-on-frame SUV is probably prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else. The Armada is built for hauling large families, towing substantial loads, and tackling tough terrain, and that V8 engine is necessary to deliver on those promises. Buyers accept the fuel penalty for the capability it provides.

City and highway performance

The 2023 Armada’s EPA ratings break down to 13 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving that demands frequent acceleration from the 5.6L V8, quickly eroding fuel economy. The highway number, while still not stellar, shows some improvement thanks to consistent speeds and less demand on the engine. Remember, the 18 MPG figure is best achieved when cruising steadily, not when frequently passing other vehicles or maintaining speeds well above 70 mph. The Armada’s sizable dimensions and weight also contribute to the need for more fuel to simply maintain momentum. You can view ARMADA MPG across all years to see how this vehicle has performed historically.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Nissan Armada 4WD at $3,850. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Fuel prices fluctuate, and your personal driving habits may vary significantly from the EPA’s assumptions. If you drive more aggressively, do more city driving, or regularly tow heavy loads, expect your annual fuel costs to exceed this estimate. If you primarily drive on the highway and drive carefully, you may be able to reduce your fuel expenses somewhat.

Real-world expectations

You might see numbers below the EPA estimates in real-world driving. The Armada’s weight and powerful engine mean that fuel consumption can quickly increase with heavier acceleration or frequent idling. Hauling passengers, cargo, or a trailer will also noticeably decrease fuel economy. However, drivers who accelerate gently and spend a lot of time on the highway might see numbers that are closer to the EPA estimates.

How it compares

The Armada’s fuel economy is about where you’d expect in the full-size SUV segment. The Chevy Tahoe 4WD with the 5.3L V8 is rated at 16 MPG combined, while the Ford Expedition 4×4 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 achieves 19 MPG combined. The Toyota Sequoia, recently redesigned, now has a hybrid powertrain and significantly improved fuel economy, achieving around 22 MPG combined. This is a key reason why some buyers might choose the Expedition or Sequoia over the Armada. For those who absolutely need the V8 grunt and strong construction of the Armada, the fuel consumption difference may be a worthwhile trade-off.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is beneficial in the Armada. Avoid flooring the accelerator unless absolutely necessary. The V8 responds quickly to throttle inputs, and even moderate pressure can cause the engine to consume significantly more fuel. Ease into the throttle and let the engine build speed gradually.

Tire pressure is important in fuel efficiency. Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, which requires the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the Armada adds to its overall weight, which reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need to carry regularly. Even small weight reductions can add up over time.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoid stop-and-go traffic whenever possible. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you know you’ll be sitting in traffic for an extended period, consider turning off the engine to save fuel. Consider using cruise control when appropriate.

A properly maintained engine will run more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and other services. Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced performance and increased fuel consumption. You can browse all Nissan fuel economy data to research other models.