2017 NISSAN
Powerful platforms are ready to go
Armada: The all- new Armada gets a longawaited redesign after 10 years as the plus- sized SUV for Nissan. Enhancing the Armada begins with use of the Infiniti QX80’ s platform. While still body- on- frame, the eight- seat Armada nudges up to 208.9 inches in length. Keeping things steady with such hefty dimensions ( and capable of towing 8,500 pounds) are double wishbones and twin dampeners at all four corners. Under the hood is the Titan’s bold 5.6- liter V- 8 paired with a smooth seven- speed automatic transmission. Look for a $ 45,900 base price.
GT- R: The gorgeous 2017 Nissan GT- R gets the most impressive updates to its powerhouse format since 2009. Under the hood, the GT- R gets new ignition timing and an increase to 565 horsepower. The enhanced boost comes from a formidable twin- turbo V- 6. The stout, planted stance of the GT- R remains its calling card, and new front and rear fascia add to the appeal. A larger grille has been added to improve engine cooling, and a reinforced hood with new creases is designed to improve highspeed aerodynamic stability.
Pathfinder: Updates to the Pathfinder will be obvious with the prominent front and rear fascia that have been added to enhance the three- row SUV’s rugged attitude and overall refinement. Look for a new direct- injected 3.5- liter V- 6 delivering 284 horsepower and 259 pound- feet of torque to push the Pathfinder harder at all corners while a stiffer suspension provides better handling. Base price for Pathfinder is $ 31,250.
Titan: The standard Titan re- emerges after the splashy launch of Titan XD last year. The traditional half- ton Titan is a foot and a half shorter and 1.5 inches lower than its heavy- duty brother. Look for Titan to be available in single-, king-, and crew- cab configurations with choices of 5.5-, 6.5- and 8- foot bed lengths. Look for a smaller V- 6 engine to provide fuel economy and slightly less heavy- duty power ratings.
OTHER VEHICLES
Notable changes: 370 Z, Sentra
No changes: Altima, Frontier, Juke, Leaf, Maxima, NV200, NV2500, Quest, Versa