The Nissan Armada is a full-size, truck-based, body-on-frame SUV that started its first generation in 2004 and continued to 2016. Armanda is currently in its second generation, starting in 2017 after unveiling its new generation in 2016. It’s mechanically and visually similar to the Infiniti QX80, but more focused on value and utility. It has a large and spacious interior and three rows of seats that fit seven or eight passengers, depending on the model.
First Generation (2004 – 2016)
The Armada was first launched with a 5.6-liter, 305 horsepower V8 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission. It had a long-wheelbase layout of 123.2 inches. It offered standard rear-wheel-drive and optional four-wheel-drive with a four-wheel independent suspension and standard adjustable pedals
In 2008 there was a refresh that gave the Armada a restyled front end, standard stability system, and more power - a 317 horsepower V8 engine. Towing capacity remained the same at about 9,100 pounds, and it came with side curtain airbags. Newly available 20-inch wheels were offered.
In 2011 the Armada removed the SE and Off-Road trims and reorganized its trim levels. It now had the SV as its base trim, the SL as its middle trim and Platinum became the top trim. Pricing ranged from $37,010 for the 2WD SV to $52,890 for the 4WD Platinum.
The 2013 Armada made some technology upgrades, with Bluetooth and satellite radio being standard on all trims. Navigation added NavWeather capability, and Bluetooth audio streaming, one USB port and a 40 GB disk drive were also added. The Nissan DVD Entertainment System mounted screens in the back of the front head restraints.
In 2015 there was a refresh of interior door panels, additional color choices on the exterior and a new style for the 20-inch wheels on the SL and Platinum trims. The Platinum trim also came with an optional Reserve Package that added brown carpet and unique interior trim, plus dark chrome on the wheels and the exterior trim. The SL included an optional power moonroof and the SV trim offered an available Driver Package that included a backup camera, power liftgate and Bose audio system.
Second Generation (2017-Present)
This redesigned generation of the Armada remained a body-on-frame full-size SUV. Its length grew 1.2 inches. Exterior styling was refreshed with sharper lines, a modern roofline, and curved exterior panels. It now has a standard 390-horsepower V8 engine with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Forward collision warning with automatic braking became available. A towing package allows it to tow up to 8,500 pounds. The Armada features a V-motion grille, LED low-beam headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED taillights. It seats up to eight in three rows and has an available power-folding third row seat.
SV – Starting price of $45,395
- Four-wheel drive adds $2,900
- Optional Driver Package adds fog lamps, an auto-dimming inside mirror with compass, power liftgate, power third-row seats, trailer harness, and universal garage-door opener
SL- adds an additional $4,750
- Leather upholstery
- Heated front seats
- Bose audio
- Around View Camera with moving-object detection
- Keyless entry and start
- Power Liftgate
- 20-inch wheels
- Optional power moonroof
Platinum – Starting price $58,085
- Rear entertainment system with dual 7-inch screens
- Navigation
- Power moonroof
- Front parking sensors
- Heated steering wheel
- Machine-faced 20-inch alloy wheels
- Heated/cooled front seats
- Available second-row captain’s chairs
In 2019, new safety features became standard. Automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, rearview monitor, and rear door alert that alerts drivers of anything left in the backseat are now standard.
In 2020, heated side mirrors became standard and a new 22-inch alloy wheel design is available, except it comes standard on the Platinum Reserve trim.
For 2021 the Armada gets a reworked front and rear fascia. Thorough changes are made to the interior and exterior front, which include redesigned LED headlights and tail lamps, with headlights adopting a split-design. The interior of the Armada gets new digital displays and a new 12-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is powered by the same 5.6L V8 engine, but with a new 9-speed automatic transmission. Trims are carried over and offer the same packages.
Fuel rating comes in at 14/19 mpg city/highway for the RWD models and 13/18 mpg for models equipped with 4WD.
2021 price range - $48,900 - $75,900 RWD and $52,000 - $79,000 4WD