The full-size Nissan Armada, the newest member of Nissan's diverse family of authentic sport utility vehicles, is larger than the already-large Patrol. The new Armada offers a distinctive image, led by its advanced design concept. The combination of a long wheelbase and manageable overall length gives the Armada decent stability and handling, and a longer interior with plenty of cargo room - yet short front and rear overhangs for good maneuverability.
The Armada design starts with its wide stance. The sheer A-pillar design calls attention to the tight, tailored precision of the upper body with the B-, C- and D-pillars acting as a frame for the highly polished feel of the body structure. The tailgate has a substantial look and the massive bumpers project the Armada's strength and power.
Other exterior features include a standard body-color grille on higher models, and a chrome grille on lower models, and chrome front door handles, dual power-adjustable heated chrome side mirrors, standard running boards, privacy glass for the 2nd and 3rd rows and available power rear liftgate, manual flip-out rear quarter windows, which are power-operated on higher models, and halogen headlights. All models are also offered with a standard proximity sensor system (back-up obstacle warning) in the rear bumper.
Though the Armada is Nissan’s first full-size SUV, it follows in the tradition of other authentic Nissan SUVs in providing an interior environment designed for active families. Its advanced, ergonomic interior styling combines a modern appearance with traditional ruggedness. Key to the Armada design concept is exceptional versatility, roominess and flexibility - including standard fold-flat 2nd and 3rd row seats, the most 2nd row leg room in the full-size, light duty SUV class, choice of 8-passenger seating or 7-passenger, ample cargo space behind the 3rd row seat, and a full-length overhead console with map lights, vents and available DVD Family Entertainment System. In front, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and available 6-way adjustable front passenger’s seat provide a sense of comfort and luxury, while the fold-down front passenger seat features cup holders and a recessed “work area.” The large front console offers excellent storage capacity. Three 12-volt power outlets are located on the console and instrument panel for use with cellular phones and portable electronic devices. Standard are adjustable brake and accelerator pedals with transmission interlock.
Optional leather-appointed seats and a satellite-based navigation system with 7.0-inch LCD screen are also available. The standard full-length overhead console includes individual map lamps and ventilation outlets. The 2nd row features a choice of a fold-flat 2nd row bench seat or available fold-flat 2nd row captain’s chairs with an innovative, removable 2nd row center console. The 2nd row leg room of 41.9 inches (best in the full-size, light duty SUV class) provides passengers room to ride in comfort, while an available DVD Family Entertainment System with two wireless headphones and remote control and 10-speaker Bose® audio system offers a variety of entertainment options. The interior, while large, may feel cheap for some people due to its blandness.
The Armada is the most powerful Nissan SUV ever built. Utilizing an all-new platform, the Armada features a rugged, fully boxed high-strength steel frame for enhanced crash performance and long-term durability; an independent double-wishbone rear suspension designed for improved roominess, comfort and responsive handling; and an all-new 5.6-liter DOHC 32-valve Nissan Endurance V8 engine offering one of the highest standard horsepower/torque ratings in the full-size, light duty SUV class and the highest maximum towing capacity in class (when properly equipped) of up to 9,100 pounds. The Endurance V8 engine is tuned for use in the Armada to produce 305 horsepower and 522 Nm of torque. An electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission with tow/haul mode is standard on every Armada.
The new Armada's off-road credentials are equally impressive, with 4-wheel drive models featuring an advanced full-time automatic control system. Utilizing all-wheel drive technology derived from Nissan’s world-class Skyline GT-R sports coupe (rather than less sophisticated truck-based systems), the Armada 4WD system is designed to instantly distribute torque to all four wheels whenever road conditions warrant (up to 50 percent can go to the front wheels on demand), resulting in optimal traction with improved fuel economy and enhanced cornering capability. The steering is pretty tight, without any slop. The ride is a tad firm but not harsh, and there's surprisingly little body roll. From the tall perch of the driver's seat, it's tough to see the front corners because the hood slopes steeply away from the windshield. Fortunately, the Armada feels smaller than it is. The powertrain is fantastic. At highway speed, Armada reveals truck-based origin with jiggly feel unless pavement is unblemished. Little float or wallow on dips and swells.
The two-speed electronic transfer case allows the driver to select between auto, full-time 4-wheel drive and 4Lo. The crawl ratio in 4Lo is among the best among competitors, providing enhanced low speed driving force and hill descending ability. Under normal driving conditions, 4WD Armadas operate in two-wheel drive mode.
The Armada’s Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) includes standard off-road tuning for improved braking on loose gravel. They offer good stopping power, with outstanding pedal modulation.
While the Armada is well equipped for rugged activities, it is equally capable of tackling everyday driving tasks with comfort and style. The standard all-steel front double-wishbone suspension with coil-over shock absorbers and stabilizer bar is matched with a responsive independent double-wishbone rear suspension. Along with compliant handling, the rear suspension design also provides a high ride quality for 2nd and 3rd row passengers and maximizes rear interior space by minimizing the intrusion of suspension components into the interior compartment.
Large 265/70R18 tires are offered with standard aluminum-alloy wheels, while other models feature P285/70R17 BF Goodrich Rugged Trail All-Terrain tires on 17x7.5J 7-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels. A standard 28-gallon fuel tank provides an excellent driving range.
