Talking Cars 476: Driving the Nissan Armada

Plus, the podcast panel discusses the Chevrolet Corvette, Jeep Compass, Mazda CX-90, and more.

By Jen Stockburger
Director of Operations, Auto Test Center

July 9, 2025

Main theme: For this episode, the Talking Cars podcast panel shares initial impressions about the redesigned 2025 Nissan Armada. It’s been many years since the Armada has had a redesign, so we eagerly await how this large SUV will compete with higher volume competition like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, Jeep Wagoneer, and Toyota Sequoia.

This iteration of the Armada gets a new powertrain, and the team weighs in on whether or not this turbocharged V6 is enough to power this large truck with ease. The team also discusses how the Armada, one of a handful of SUVs that retains its body-on-frame chassis in a much larger world of unibody SUVs, might balance on-road livability with off-road potential. And at close to $60,000—which climbs quickly with optional equipment—does the Armada provide a level of safety and refinement befitting the price? Tune in to find out.

Read our Nissan Armada first drive.

Audience Questions
• Are the turn signals on the new Jeep Compass really as annoying as people have said?
• Is the Mazda CX-90 a good option for longer-term ownership?
• And what is a good daily driver alternative for a 6-foot-4-inch driver currently in a Chevrolet Corvette C6?

Talking Cars Episode 476 panel — “Talking Cars” panelists (from left) Jen Stockburger, Mike Crossen, and Gabe Shenhar.

How to Listen

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Recent Episodes

• Driving the GMC Terrain, episode 475
• Driving the Audi Q6 E-Tron, episode 474
• Driving the Buick Enclave, episode 473
• Driving the Kia K4, episode 472
• Driving the Volkswagen Taos, episode 471

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Jen Stockburger

Jennifer Stockburger is the director of operations at the Consumer Reports Auto Test Center, focusing on the day-to-day operations of CR’s 327-acre testing facility as well as overseeing the child seat and tire test programs and contributing to CR’s comprehensive vehicle ratings. Jennifer joined CR in 2000; before that she gained auto industry experience as a tire test and fuel systems engineer, and has been a certified child passenger safety technician (CPST) since 2001.