Honda Considers Full-Size SUV Based On The Nissan Armada
Honda executives have hinted at the possibility of entering the full-size SUV market, leveraging its upcoming merger with Nissan.
During a media roundtable at CES, Noriya Kaihara, Honda’s executive vice president, suggested the brand could develop a larger SUV, potentially based on the Nissan Armada, to compete with stalwarts like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Toyota Sequoia, and Ford Expedition.
Accoridng to Car&Driver, Kaihara noted Nissan’s experience in producing “large class” vehicles fills a gap in Honda’s current lineup. Honda’s largest SUV, the Pilot, measures 199.9 inches long and seats up to eight passengers, but it falls well short in size and capability compared to the Armada, which is 209.6 inches long and offers a robust twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 producing 425 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque.
Short-Term Solutions and Long-Term Plans
In the short term, Honda could rebadge existing Nissan models, such as the Armada, to quickly establish a presence in the segment. Kaihara also floated the idea of co-developing new full-size SUVs with Nissan, though no firm plans have been finalized. “Maybe we can exchange some of the vehicles,” Kaihara was quoted as saying, before stressing that the potential for collaboration would not override protecting Honda's brand identity.
A Flagship Opportunity
The merger opens doors for Honda to expand its offerings beyond mass-market appeal. Early speculation suggests Honda could introduce a large upscale SUV under the Acura brand, rivaling luxury models like the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and Lexus LX.
The Honda and Nissan merger is set to finalize in 2026. The merger is expected to bring shared platforms, cost efficiencies, and access to different vehicle segments.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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We owned two Honda Pilots, a 2003 and a 2013, We traded in the 03 to buy the 13. The 13 was traded in to buy a 2022 Kia Telluride. All three had the same interior cargo size which we needed. We got the Kia as it had more driver-assist features such as a heads-up display. Honda may find that making an SUV bigger than the present Pilot may not sell more units. Something as big as the Lincoln Navigator costs more and takes u a lot of garage space.