The revamped Armada features an evolved design, a refined interior, and a new twin-turbo V6 engine
The Nissan Armada barely registers in the automotive market, being outsold by the Chevrolet Tahoe more than 5:1. Despite this, Nissan isn’t giving up and has introduced a redesigned model. Set to launch later this year, the 2025 Armada maintains a familiar yet evolved design.
The SUV now appears more modern, featuring a wide grille flanked by vertical LED headlights, an acoustic windshield, rain-sensing wipers, and functional air curtains. Along the sides, you’ll notice curvaceous bodywork and a choice of 18-, 20-, or 22-inch wheels.
The designers also reimagined the greenhouse and created a distinctive rear pillar. At the back, vertical taillights can be linked by an optional illuminated strip.
Inside, the cabin takes significant inspiration from the Infiniti QX80, presenting a much more advanced look compared to its predecessor.
However, the base model remains somewhat minimalistic. On the positive side, it comes equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a six-speaker audio system, and eight leatherette seats with power adjustments for the front seats.
While not overly exciting, third-row passengers benefit from an additional 5.7 inches (145 mm) of legroom. Cargo space also increases, offering 20.4 cubic feet (578 liters) behind the third row and 97.1 cubic feet (2,750 liters) behind the first row.
Higher-end versions are far more luxurious, offering 14.3-inch displays, open-pore wood trim, and quilted leather seats. Additional options include heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, second-row captain’s chairs with a center console, a wireless smartphone charger, a dual-pane panoramic moonroof, Google integration, and a 12-speaker Klipsch premium audio system.
Powering the Armada is a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 425 hp (317 kW / 431 PS) and 516 lb-ft (699 Nm) of torque. This is 25 hp (19 kW / 25 PS) less than the QX80 but 25 hp (19 kW / 25 PS) more than the outgoing model.
The engine is paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous seven-speed gearbox, and promises improved acceleration, quicker shifts, and better fuel efficiency. Buyers can choose between rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive.
In terms of capability, the Armada can tow up to 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) and offers an Integrated Trailer Brake Controller and a new Trailer Blind Spot Monitoring system.
For those venturing off-road, the new Armada Pro-4X stands out with Black and Lava Red accents, a clearance-maximizing front bumper, an electronic locking rear differential, and 20-inch wheels with all-terrain tires. It also features skid plates and an air suspension that can raise the vehicle by 2.1 inches (53 mm) for enhanced off-road capability or lower it by 2 inches (51 mm) for easier entry and exit.
Whether on trails or streets, drivers will appreciate the new frame, which boasts a 25% increase in torsional rigidity and a 57% boost in lateral stiffness, promising a much-improved ride.
On the safety front, the Armada comes with ProPILOT Assist, including versions 1.1 and 2.1. The basic system combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering, while version 2.1 allows for hands-free driving. Additionally, the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite is included, offering Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, High Beam Assist, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Automatic Braking, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
These features are complemented by Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention, and Intelligent Lane Intervention.
