The powertrain that powers this Armada beauty is completely new. This year’s standard 5.6 L V8 Endurance engine provides 390 hp (up from 317) and 394 lb-ft worth of muscle. Coupled to a 7-speed automatic transmission in two-wheel drive mode, it is rated at 14 mpg city and 19 mpg highway.
The gear ratios, ATF (automatic transmission fluid) warmer, and shift change response improvements increase its gas mileage over last year’s model. The 4-wheel drive model drops only one mile per gallon from the 2-wheel drive model.
The 8-passenger Nissan Armada has three trim levels—SV, SL, and Platinum—in both FWD and 4WD configurations.
If you are into towing, Armada has a best-in-class capacity of 8,500 lbs for both 2- and 4-wheel drive models. The weight is better in some cases by 2,000 lbs over what Ford Expedition, Toyota Sequoia, and Chevy Tahoe offer.
After receiving my Armada, my job was to drive around the community of Monterey, California and up the Pacific Coast. Then up into the high country to the east.
Armada fit right in along narrow roads that posed a view of some of the most beautiful beach homes, enchanting gardens, and estates in the country. With the Pebble Golf Course in the background, morning walkers and joggers gave friendly smiles of approval and even stopped me to talk about the Armada.
