Nissan Armada

Model Years Produced: 2017 to Current

Summary

In a segment of dinosaur body-on-frame, truck-based SUVs, the Armada is one of the most “dinosaur” of them all. With its big, thirsty V8 and ponderous handling, you would be excused for thinking it’s a decade older than it is – that is, until you sit in the driver seat. The ride is supple, the interior quite nice for being “just a Nissan,” and the infotainment and safety tech feels modern (if perhaps not cutting edge) – as long as you’re in a 2021 or later-model vehicle – even if some of the other tech such as the gauge cluster lags behind the competition.

The underlying chassis is tried-and-true, though most of the frame and suspension is steel rather than aluminum, so it won’t hold it up well in corrosive climates. There is no air suspension, adjustable dampers, electronically disengaging sway bars, etc. – everything is simple, straightforward, and cheap to produce (and replace).

The Armada underwent a mid-cycle refresh for model year 2021. The engine’s power output increased from 390 to 400 hp, and Nissan’s “Shield 360″ safety suite (including automatic emergency braking w/ pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and rear automatic braking) became standard for all trims, as did dual-zone automatic climate control. The body styling also changed significantly, and the infotainment received a huge upgrade to a 12.3” screen that includes Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay.

Verdict

Pros

Great ride
Engine is dependable and makes good power
Great standard safety features
Interior is nicely appointed, especially on upper trims

Cons

Bad fuel economy
Handles like a big truck
Build quality doesn’t measure up to other Japanese competitors
Nissan dealership service and sales experience is subpar

Reviews

Consumer Reports

URL: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/armada/2022/overview/
Overall score: 55/100
Road test: 69/100
Predicted reliability: 2/5
Predicted owner satisfaction: 2/5

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Other Outlets

Car & Driver: https://www.caranddriver.com/nissan/armada
Motor Trend: https://www.motortrend.com/cars/nissan/armada/

Specifications

All figures are as of 2022 model year.

Transmission: Jatco 7-speed automatic
Drivetrain: RWD standard, full-time 4WD optional w/ 2-speed transfer case
- Electronically locking center differential standard on 4WD models
- Electronically locking rear differential not available
Base curb weight: 5650 lbs
Max cargo capacity: 95.4 cu ft
Seating: 3 rows
Rear leg room: 41.0 in
Towing capacity: 8500 lbs

Nissan Armada (Y62)