2020 Nissan Armada®

SCHEDULE A TEST DRIVE

Overview

While crossover SUVs remain the go-to choice for families, the 2020 Armada is ready to tackle the needs of drivers that require a bigger, more capable SUV. 

Performance

Under that massive hood is a 5.6-liter V8 that produces 390 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque. The powertrain benefits from more efficient direct injection, a higher compression ratio, variable valve timing, and other engineering feats. This capable engine also powers Nissan’s TITAN® pickup truck, testifying to its toughness. A seven-speed automatic transmission uses wider gear ratios for increased fuel efficiency, which earns the Armada an EPA-estimated 16 mpg combined (14 city/19 highway) with rear-wheel drive and 15 mpg combined (13 city/18 highway) with optional four-wheel drive.*

The Armada uses a traditional body-on-frame design, so unlike the many crossovers that just look like rugged SUVs, the Armada has the capability to back it up. Based on the classic Nissan Patrol, the brand’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 to increase fuel economy and smooth out driving dynamics, but the four-wheel drive system can split power 50/50 between the front and rear if necessary. And thanks to its robust chassis, the Armada can also tow up to 8,500 pounds, when properly equipped.

Features

The 2020 Nissan Armada is a five-door, eight-seat, full-size SUV. It's offered in SV, SL, Platinum, and Platinum Reserve trim levels, with prices starting at $47,100.**

The Armada is Nissan’s flagship SUV, and that’s reflected in the level of standard equipment on offer. The base SV model includes standard features like LED headlights, daytime running lights, and taillights, as well as 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front bucket seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, SiriusXM® satellite radio, 13-speaker Bose® audio system, navigation, and Bluetooth®.

The SL adds a number of features shoppers won't want to pass it up. These include 20-inch wheels, remote engine start, and leather-appointed seats. The SL trim also benefits from a number of in-demand tech features, like power liftgate, auto-dimming heated mirrors, and Nissan’s Intelligent Around View® Monitor. 

The top Armada models are the Platinum and Platinum Reserve, which incorporate the applicable standard features of the SV and SL and add premium features, like an Intelligent Rearview Mirror, front climate-controlled seats, and a Tri-Zone Entertainment System with dual 8-inch monitors. 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. The Platinum Reserve model goes all out with 20" dark chrome-clad aluminum-alloy wheels, dark chrome exterior trim, premium two-tone leather-appointed seats with contrast stitching, open-pore wood-tone interior trim, and exclusive Platinum Reserve badging.

Design 

The 2020 Armada features a stylish look that combines elements of both the TITAN full-size pickup truck and the INFINITI QX80 luxury model it shares a platform with.

The 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, as well as a hospitality light in the side-view mirrors, a neat little feature that activates puddle lights as the driver approaches the Armada and illuminates 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, though that grows to 95.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2020 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.

Verdict 

Whether you're looking to tow, venture off the beaten path, or simply want to tackle the daily urban grind in complete comfort, the 2020 Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV designed for your full-size life. Contact us today or stop by our showroom at 3757 Bonney Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 to get a closer look.

* 2020 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates: 14 City/19 Highway/16 Combined for Armada® SV, SL, Platinum 4x2; 13 City/18 Highway/15 Combined for Armada SV, SL, Platinum 4x4. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.

** All prices are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). MSRP excludes destination and handling charges, tax, title, license, and options. Dealer sets actual price.

Image Credit: Nissan