The attractively-styled 2020 Nissan Armada features a powerful V8 engine and a luxurious interior with seating for eight. Introduced for the 2017 model year, the second-generation Armada provides a premium experience for a price well below comparable premium full-size SUVs.
Nissan’s Armada uses body-on-frame construction that provides off-road capabilities and the towing capacity of a pickup truck, up to 8,500 lbs. The construction also gives the Armada a strong presence on the road. Nissan’s 5.6-liter V8 engine produces 390 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque. The giant V8 is quite welcome in a world that seems to be taken over by small displacement turbos All Armada models use a 7-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard and four-wheel-drive is available. Fuel economy is rated up to 14/19 mpg city/highway.
We found that the Armada’s precise steering and well-tuned suspension worked well for daily driving activities and that an extended highway trip confirmed the quiet luxurious nature of the SUV. It is easy to forget that the Armada is not a premium-branded vehicle. The powerful powertrain and refined suspension yield a driving experience that is similar to more expensive vehicles from competing manufacturers.
Armada’s family-friendly interior is spacious, quiet and comfortable. The standard heated front seats are comfortably padded, but could use more by way of support. The ten-way power adjustable driver’s seat and the tilt/telescopic steering wheel make it easy to find a comfortable driving position. Nissan’s use of soft-touch surfaces, attractive design and trim add to the Armada’s premium feel.
The Armada’s second row provides comfortable seating for three adults. The 60/40 folding third row is designed for three, but is better suited for two adults. The Armada provides 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and increases to 49.9 and 95.4 behind the second and third rows respectively.
The Armada’s standard audio system includes an 8-inch touchscreen, 13 speakers, four USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity. The system also includes standard navigation, HD and satellite radio. Nissan’s decision use a premium-branded system and include navigation helps bolster our argument that the Armada is actually a premium/luxury vehicle for a non-premium price.
Which Armada Trim Works for you?
The 2020 Nissan Armada is available in SV, SL, Platinum and Platinum Reserve models with 2WD or 4WD.
Armada SV features 18-inch alloy wheels, a tow-hitch receiver, chrome door handles and contrast painted roof rails, running boards and overfenders.
Armada SL adds Nissan Intelligent Key, Remote Engine Start System, power 60/40 3rd row seat, Intelligent Around View Monitor, power liftgate and 20-inch wheels and tires.
Armada Platinum includes power-sliding moonroof, front climate-controlled seats, a family entertainment system, “Nissan Safety Shield” technologies and the Intelligent Rear View Mirror.
Platinum Reserve adds dark chrome exterior trim, dark grey skid plate and tow hatch cover and two-tone leather-appointed seats, interior trim with unique stitching and 22-inch wheels and tires.
Four option packages are also offered.
The Driver’s Package (SV only) includes fog lights, auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, power 60/40 3rd row seat, power liftgate and trailer towing harness and pre-wire and connector for brake controller.
The Captain’s Chairs Seat Package (SL and Platinum) replaces the 2nd row bench seat with 2nd row Captain’s Chairs and 2nd row center console with padded armrest.
The Premium Package (SL) includes Intelligent Distance Control (I-DC), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Intelligent Back-up Intervention (I-BI) and power sliding moonroof with front tilt and rear slide. And finally, the new 22″ Wheel Package features 22-inch wheels and tires.
Pricing for the 2020 Nissan Armada starts at $47,500 plus fees.
