NISSAN ARMADA 2023: THE TEST OF THE WEEK
NISSAN ARMADA 2023: THE TEST OF THE WEEK
Posted on June 5, 2024
Few vehicles can replace both a pickup truck and a minivan, but that's the case with the Nissan Armada. The category of large SUVs has expanded significantly in recent years. There are new players, and most of the models that were already present in the segment have been updated and improved extensively. The Nissan Armada has also undergone some improvements. However, is that enough to allow the giant of the Japanese manufacturer to compete in its segment? That's what I wanted to demonstrate by testing the Nissan Armada.
First, why the Armada? This name has many meanings, and we can say that it describes the Japanese manufacturer's SUV quite well. To simplify things for you, "Armada" represents a large quantity of something. The Nissan Armada is the brand's largest SUV and also the model that offers the most interior space and the best towing capacity. In short, it plays in the extremes in just about everything, both in the positive and negative aspects, as you will see later in your reading. However, this does not prevent the Japanese manufacturer's SUV from selling.
The Driving Experience
There is only one mechanical option for the Nissan Armada, and it is a 5.6-liter V8. Of course, this large engine is quite thirsty, with an average consumption of 17.5L/100km in the city and 12.4L/100km on the highway. Finally, that is the least of your concerns when you are driving a vehicle of this size. What matters is the 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque that come with this engine, allowing it to offer a towing capacity of 8,500 pounds. Moreover, that's not all. The Nissan Armada is also surprisingly enjoyable to drive. It may even be one of the most fun large SUVs on the market. The growl of its V8 is very real, and we don't ask for more. In short, you will understand that I had a lot of fun behind the wheel of the Armada during my test week. It's a vehicle that positively surprised me on all levels. Its 7-speed automatic transmission is well-calibrated, and its 4x4 system is very effective. Apart from its high consumption, this large SUV has very little to reproach itself.
City - Large utility vehicles are generally quite challenging to drive in the city, but that's not the case with the Armada, which offers excellent visibility. Its handling is light, and it doesn't feel as bulky as it actually is. In short, it's a very pleasant vehicle to drive in the city.
Highway - I wouldn't go so far as to say we're traveling first class, but at least we're in business class with the Armada. It's a very comfortable vehicle and perfect for long highway trips. Its ride silence is impressive, and its V8 allows for quick overtaking.
Country Road - The Nissan Armada is a surprisingly agile and precise vehicle for its size, which makes it enjoyable to drive even on small country roads. I believe there is no terrain where the Armada is not comfortable.
Design and Technologies
While it's common to stretch the life of platforms in this segment, the Nissan Armada is starting to show its age. It's certainly very competent and comfortable, but its last complete redesign dates back to 2017. Fortunately, the Japanese manufacturer's SUV has recently undergone a significant update, which allows it to remain competitive even today.
I must say that I particularly like what Nissan has done with the front of its SUV, which is more modern and elegant than ever. The Armada is an imposing and stylish SUV, a combination that is quite challenging to achieve. It doesn't look like the other models in its category. In short, Nissan has done an excellent job in this regard.
The interior is spacious, and the finish is of good quality. The steering wheel looks a bit outdated, but Nissan has managed to modernize the dashboard so that it doesn't feel like you're stuck in the past. Finally, the Armada offers a wide range of cutting-edge technologies. Its adaptive cruise control is particularly effective. Its multimedia system is very user-friendly. In short, it's a perfect choice for someone transitioning from an older vehicle to a new model and who doesn't necessarily want to experience a generational shock.
Price and Equipment
$75,639 is what you'll need to shell out if you want to get your hands on a Nissan Armada. No, it's not within everyone's budget, but it's the right price to pay for a vehicle of this size with such capabilities. Now, note that its price remains one of the most reasonable in the segment, and that's a significant advantage without wanting to make a bad pun. In its ultimate version, the Armada's starting price does not exceed $84,389 before options, and that's very important. You should know that the majority of its competitors can quickly cost over $100,000. In short, all this to say that Nissan has done its homework well by keeping a more accessible price range for the Armada. At the same time, it's one of the models that offer the least variety in its category. So, it's fortunate that its price is in the right average.
SL - $75,639
Midnight Edition - $78,389
Platinum - $83,139
Platinum with Captain's Chairs - $84,389
Author's Recommendations
Nissan no longer offers a full-size pickup truck, and that's a shame. Fortunately, the Nissan Armada is here to make up for it. Its impressive capabilities and imposing size make it an ideal vehicle for large families who love adventure or for someone who wants to replace a pickup truck. It's not a vehicle I recommend to everyone, but if you have needs that require strength and space, it's definitely a product you should consider.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier