Downsizing? Small engine? Well, this SUV missed the memo
You’re not likely to find too many Armadas crossing your path in this era of car-based tall wagons (a.k.a. crossovers). But that’s not too surprising when you think of the full-size, offroad-capable Nissan’s specific skill set that includes comfortably transporting you and up to seven acquaintances plus perhaps a very large trailer.
Despite what you might think, there are buyers who want a big, boxy, bodyon-frame machine like the Armada and its small knot of competitors. Even though well-appointed 4x4 crew-cab pickups have literally muscled their way to popularity, some people instead prefer a heaping helping of style over practicality.
The 2017 Armada varies significantly from the original Titan-based pickup from which it was derived. This one actually comes from the Infiniti QX80 (Infiniti is Nissan’s premium division), which in turn was adapted from Nissan’s body-on-frame Patrol model that’s sold in Japan and in other countries outside North America. Compared to the first-generation Armada, the new model is about the same length, width and height, but it loses a couple of inches between the front and rear wheels. Third-row riders are short a bit of legroom now.
Because it’s QX80-based, the Armada mirrors that model in its neat and tightly drawn appearance, with only minimal bodywork ahead and behind the front and rear axles. As a result, the big wagon has a more purposeful look and actually seems smaller than the tape measure indicates.
There’s nothing small about the Armada’s luxurious cabin that provides more than adequate space. You can also upgrade the second-row bench seat with a pair of pillowy captain’s chairs separated by a removable floor console/arm rest. Nissan refers to the interior as having “library-like interior noise levels”.
The powertrain is likely not that quiet, however. The 5.6-liter V8 is the same displacement as before, but has been completely reworked to produce 390 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque. That’s up from 315/385. Given that the new Armada weighs about the same as before at 5,600 pounds, the extra power is welcome, if not needed.
A seven-speed automatic transmission with a manual-shifting mode replaces the five-speed unit, which contributes to reduced fuel consumption, although the ratings of 14 mpg in the city and 19 on the highway (improved from 12/18) seem more like 1997 than 2017.
Although rear-wheel-drive is standard, most buyers will likely opt for all-wheel-drive, a system that comes with a two-speed transfer case. The low range is ideal for crawling over seriously rough terrain, should you ever require it. Also helpful here is 9 inches of ground clearance and
a radiator that’s protected by a skid plate.
You might never put your Armada through such grueling theatrics, but, anticipating the need for towing your toys, it can handle up to 8,500 pounds of trailer weight. A hitch is standard.
For 2017 there are three available content-rich trims, starting with the SV model that lists for $45,300, including destination charges. It comes with dual-zone climate control, navigation system, sonar-based front and rear parking assists, heated and power-operated front seats and a 13-speaker Bose-brand audio system.
The mid-range SL has heated leathercovered seats, 360-degree around-view camera, power liftgate, power-operated third-row seat and 20-inch wheels (18-inchers are standard).
The top-end Platinum gets heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, power-opening sunroof, rearseat entertainment screens and active-safety technology to prevent crashes.
The Armada is unquestionably a lot of vehicle for a lot of money, but if your penchant is for big room, major comfort V8 performance in a go-anywhere package, this Nissan warrants a serious look.