New for 2017
The Armada is completely new for 2017. It moves from the platform of the old Titan pickup truck to that of the Infiniti QX80 luxury SUV.
A Complete Reimagining
It’s rare that a vehicle gets such a comprehensive makeover as the 2017 Nissan Armada. The Armada started out as an SUV version of the Titan pickup, but for this new second generation, Nissan based the Armada on the Patrol, a legendary off-roader that’s been sold in other markets for decades, and also forms the basis for the Infiniti QX80 luxury SUV. Now the Armada is ready to take on the best the full-size SUV segment has to offer.
Powertrains and Performance
Like everything else about the 2017 Nissan Armada, the powertrain is completely new. Under that massive hood is a new 5.6-liter V8 that maintains the same displacement as the V8 in the outgoing Armada. It benefits from more-efficient direct injection, a higher compression ratio, variable valve timing, and other refinements.
The result is 390 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, compared to 317 hp and 385 lb-ft for the old Armada V8. The reinvigorated engine will also be used in Nissan’s redesigned Titan pickup truck, testifying to its toughness. A seven-speed automatic transmission replaces the old five-speed. It uses wider gear ratios for increased fuel efficiency, although official fuel-economy figures won’t be announced until a later date.
The Armada continues to use a traditional body-on-frame design, with rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive. So unlike the many crossovers that look like rugged SUVs, the Armada has the capability to back it up. Based on the Patrol, Nissan’s legendary rival to the Range Rover and Toyota Land Cruiser, the Armada’s four-wheel drive system uses a transfer case that includes a low range for proper off-roading.
When driving on road, the Armada typically operates in rear-wheel drive mode to increase fuel economy and smooth out driving dynamics, but the four-wheel drive system can split power 50/50 front/rear if necessary. And thanks to its robust chassis, the Armada can also tow up to 8,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Features and Trims
The 2017 Nissan Armada is a five-door, eight-seat full-size SUV. It will be offered in three trim levels, with pricing to be announced closer to the vehicle’s launch in mid 2016.
The Armada is Nissan’s flagship SUV, and that’s reflected in the level of standard equipment. The base SV model includes standard features like LED headlights, daytime running lights, and taillights, 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front bucket seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, SiriusXM® satellite radio, 13-speaker Bose® audio system, navigation, and Bluetooth®.
In addition to those standard features, the Armada adds Nissan’s Intelligent Key remote-start system, power 60/40 split-fold third-row seat, power tailgate, 20-inch wheels, and more.
The top Armada model is the Platinum, which incorporates the applicable standard features of the SV and SL, and adds standard equipment like a power-sliding moonroof, front climate-controlled seats, and a Family Entertainment System. It’s also possible to substitute the second-row bench seat on this model with captain’s chairs and a center console with padded armrest.
Design
After about a decade on sale, it was time for Nissan to give the Armada’s styling an update. The new 2017 model features a fresh look that combines elements of both the Titan full-size pickup truck and the Infiniti QX80 luxury model it shares a platform with.
The redesigned body features a classic SUV shape, with Nissan’s current V-motion grille and LED lighting giving it a bold face. There are also nice little details like functional air vents on the front fenders, and a hospitality light in the side-view mirrors that turns on puddle lights as the driver approaches the Armada, and turns on the cabin lights when the lock is released.
On the inside, the Armada is roomy and luxurious. The standard seating configuration includes front bucket seats, a flat-folding 60/40 split second row bench, and a 60/40 split third row bench. Captain’s chairs can be substituted for the second row on the Platinum model. No matter where you’re sitting, Nissan promises “library levels” of quiet, thanks to increased use of acoustic glass and sound-absorbent material. With all three rows in place, the Armada has 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space. That grows to 95.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Nissan Armada includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, a rearview camera, and Nissan Advanced Airbag System. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, forward emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind spot warning, blind spot intervention, backup collision intervention, and Nissan’s Around View Monitor camera system.
Bottom Line
The 2017 Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV that combines luxury and capability in one compelling new package.
For more information, or to be among the first to test drive the 2017 Nissan Armada, contact or visit us at 3Birds Template today.
Image: Nissan
