The Nissan Armada is a full-size, 8-passenger SUV that is available in either 2- or 4-wheel drive. It is offered in three trim levels: SV, SL and Platinum. All are powered by a 32-valve, 5.6L V8 that makes a very stout 390 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque. Power is put to either the rear wheels or to all four through a 7-speed automatic transmission. The pairing is good for 14 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway in 2WD models. When properly equipped, the Armada can tow up to 8,500 pounds.
Styling is in line with the rest of the Nissan lineup, with a V-motion front grille, LED headlights and daytime running lights. All Armadas feature rugged body-on-frame construction, with boxed ladder frame rails for strength. Four-wheel independent suspension is found across the range, which lends the big SUV a smoother ride and better handling in everyday driving. Inside, Nissan has employed extensive sound deadening and acoustic glass, which results in a quiet ride.
The Armada SV rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and includes automatic LED headlights, chromed grille and door handles, power folding mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators, a rearview camera and front and rear sonar for aid in navigating tight spots. Inside, navigation with voice recognition is standard, and displayed on an 8-inch touchscreen display. Other standard features include Bluetooth hands-free connectivity with audio streaming, dual-zone automatic climate control with separate rear controls, power one-touch front windows, Intelligent cruise control, and three 12-volt DC outlets. Heated cloth front seats are also standard, with 8-way power adjustability for the driver. The second- and third-row seats are 60/40 split-fold benches. Leather graces the steering wheel and shift knob, while wood-tone material is featured throughout the cabin. A 13-speaker Bose audio system provides the tunes. An optional Driver Package for the SV trim adds a power 60/40 third-row seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror, trailer towing harness and power liftgate.
The Armada SL adds 20-inch wheels, fog lights, remote start, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a power rear liftgate. Leather front seats with driver's side memory are also standard on the SL, along with a HomeLink universal transceiver, Around View Monitor with four cameras, 120-volt AC outlet and more.
The Armada Platinum comes with all the SL's standard features, along with a power sliding moonroof, dual-zone automatic temperature control with a cabin filter, as well as a 3-zone entertainment system with dual 8-inch displays, DVD player with remote, two wireless headphones, heated and cooled front seats, heated second-row seats and a heated steering wheel. An Intelligent safety system that includes Cruise Control, Lane Intervention, Blind Spot Intervention, Backup Intervention and Distance Control is also standard.
Top of the line Platinum Reserve trim adds 22-inch alloy wheels, dark chrome exterior body details, premium two-tone leather for the interior and wood paneling in the dashboard.
Durable And Competent Off-roader
Equally At Home On The Highway
Seating For Eight
Towing Capacity
Interior Appointments
Class-leading Power
The Nissan Armada returns for 2020 without too many changes. A new 22-inch wheel package is available, but also comes standard on Platinum Reserve trims, while heated exterior mirrors are now standard across the entire Armada range.
With its 390-horsepower V8, the Nissan Armada is a leader in the struggle for power among full-size SUVs. The engine allows for towing up to 8,500 pounds, all while carrying eight passengers in comfort. Against the likes of other large SUVs such as the GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Tahoe, the Armada's refinement sets it apart. A deep menu of advanced technology and safety features, buyers can configure an Armada that works for them.
