16 MPG combined won’t win any fuel-sipping awards, but it’s the reality for the 2024 Nissan Armada 2WD with its strong 5.6L V8 engine. This isn’t a vehicle bought for efficiency, it’s purchased by those who prioritize towing capacity, interior space, and the confident feel of a large, body-on-frame SUV. Fuel economy is a secondary consideration, an accepted cost of doing business for buyers who need what the Armada offers.

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 the engine’s thirst when navigating stop-and-go traffic, where the vehicle’s weight becomes a significant factor. The highway number is somewhat more palatable, hinting at the potential for slightly better economy on longer trips where the engine can settle into a more efficient cruising range. However, even on the open road, the Armada’s aerodynamic profile doesn’t exactly help conserve fuel. The seven-speed automatic transmission does what it can to manage the engine’s power, but ultimately it’s fighting against physics.

Annual fuel cost

Owners of the 2024 Nissan Armada 2WD can expect to spend approximately $3,600 per year on fuel, according to EPA estimates. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. It’s a substantial sum, and buyers should factor this cost into their ownership budget. For those who drive significantly more or less than 15,000 miles per year, or if fuel prices fluctuate dramatically, that figure could change significantly. Anyone concerned about the long term cost of filling-up, may benefit from checking all Nissan fuel economy data, which might suggest a path towards future improvement and savings.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a benchmark, real-world MPG can vary considerably based on driving habits, terrain, and how the Armada is used. Heavy towing will drastically reduce fuel economy, as will aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking. Conversely, gentle driving on flat terrain with minimal cargo can potentially nudge the numbers upward, perhaps even exceeding the 19 MPG highway estimate. Most owners will likely see figures somewhere in the middle, potentially closer to the city MPG than the highway rating, especially if their commutes involve a lot of stop-and-go traffic.

How it compares

Compared to rivals, the Armada’s fuel economy is generally in line with other large, V8-powered SUVs. The Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD with the 5.3L V8 achieves a comparable 15 MPG combined. The Ford Expedition 2WD, equipped with a turbocharged 3.5L V6, boasts slightly better figures around 19 MPG combined, demonstrating the efficiency benefits of forced induction. Even the Toyota Sequoia, which now comes exclusively as a hybrid, still only manages 22 MPG combined. This comparison matters because Armada buyers are likely cross-shopping these vehicles, weighing fuel costs against factors like price, features, and brand loyalty. Buyers could research the ARMADA MPG across all years because they might value a vehicle that has a consistent performance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 5.6L V8 delivers ample power, but using it frequently will significantly impact fuel consumption. Smooth, gradual acceleration will help conserve fuel and reduce wear and tear on the drivetrain. The Armada is a heavy vehicle, which means wasted fuel leads to wasted money.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, which can be found on the driver’s side doorjamb. Investing in a portable tire inflator can make this task easier and more convenient.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready to go. Modern starters are designed for frequent use, so restarting the engine won’t cause undue wear.

Reduce cargo weight. Carrying unnecessary items in the vehicle adds weight, which in turn increases fuel consumption. Remove any items you don’t need to carry regularly, such as sporting equipment or tools. A lighter vehicle is always a more efficient vehicle.

Service your Armada according to schedule. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections, ensures that the engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and performs better overall.