2011 Nissan Armada

Inside the look isn't nearly as aggressive-looking—it's actually now one of the more softly-contoured designs in this competitive set—and while it's one of the more dated designs among full-size trucks it still feels well-laid out and straightforward. Smaller controls and more delicate buttons in general, though, project that it takes aim at suburban types more than the work-gloved crowd.

The more very conventional, carlike steering wheel and shifter position hint that the driving experience is going to be more carlike; but it isn't. While brakes are good, steering, handling, and maneuverability are sore spots for this mammoth truck; try to make any quick change in direction, and you're woefully aware of this vehicle's tremendous heft. The tall body and tall-sidewall tires don't help either, leading to a somewhat detached feel when making abrupt lane changes and the like.

The seating position of the Armada is pleasant and upright in the first and second rows, with the front seats especially quite comfortable and supportive—and it's easy to find a good position with the available adjustable pedals. Second-row captain's chairs are also very comfortable but reduce capacity from eight to seven, replacing the bench seat. In back, the third-row bench is just passable for smaller adults, but it leaves almost no cargo space and headroom is tighter back there.

Nissan has moved to dress up the Armada's interior in recent years, but overall, there are too many dull plastics in this interior, and trims still look on the cheap side.

Ride quality in the Armada is firm but smooth, soaking up most major bumps, but it isn't the most refined experience. In multiple test vehicles over the years our editors have noted a fair amount of wind noise, and engine noise in these vehicles is cranked up to an almost ever-present level. While the V-8 sounds good, it can get wear on you on long mountain passes, or when towing.

Front side and full-length side curtain airbags, covering both rows, are standard, as are electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution.

The Nissan Armada hasn't been tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and the federal government hasn't yet tested it either under the completely revamped testing and ratings system introduced for 2011. Under the former federal tests, the Armada received a mix of four- and five-star results for frontal impact, but it wasn't tested for side impact. Its federal rollover score remains just three stars—typical for a tall SUV design.

While there's a pretty good view out when driving, thanks to the high vantage point and ample window space, headrests and the vehicle's excessive height can get in the way of visibility when parking. Rear parking sensors are included, though a camera system is optional.

Unlike the full-size SUVs from GM and Ford, the Armada has a pretty simple lineup and a limited list of options. Automatic dual-zone air conditioning, a 60/40 split fold-flat third-row seat, keyless entry, rear parking sensors, and the ability to play MP3-formatted CDs are all standard features on the Armada SV, and over the previous SE it adds an overhead console, power-adjustable pedals, and other extras. SL models add Bluetooth hands-free, a Bose premium audio system, a rear-view monitor, leather upholstery, an auto-leveling rear suspension, and a power-folding third-row seat. And at the top of the line, the Platinum gets heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a moonroos, power rear liftgate, DVD entertainment, and a nav system with real-time traffic capability and hard-drive space for music storage.

Second-row captain's chairs are a standalone option; otherwise, a tow package will be a must-have for some as it taps into the full 9,100-pound capacity and brings a brake controller and 7-pin harness.

While we'd like to dismiss these very non-green figures as an aberration, we've seen it with out own eyes (and fuel budget) in repeat drives; Nissan's full-size trucks (and this V-8) are far from fuel-efficient—even when compared to full-size V-8 trucks from GM, Ford, or Toyota.