2011 Nissan Armada SV

The 2011 Armada is Nissan's big eight-passenger SUV, the one you cross-shop with the Tahoe and Expedition when you need serious towing and room. It drives with a heavy, planted feel that inspires confidence, and owners say it handles tight curves and parking spots better than you'd expect from something this size. Inside, the Armada seats eight with a removable second-row center console that opens a walk-through to the third row, and the rear seats fold flat for hauling lumber or a rowboat. A few owners mention a rattle from the tailgate or rear door that shows up early, and the paint on the inside door handles can wear off, but neither is a deal breaker. The SV comes with cloth seats and a six-speaker stereo, skipping Platinum's leather and Bose audio to keep the price down while still sharing the same V8 and towing capability.