This new Nissan Armada packs a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine with 425 horsepower and 515 lb-ft of torque, replacing the long-time V8. Fuel economy is expected to improve, hovering around 18 miles per gallon, similar to its luxury sibling, the Infiniti QX80. The new Pro-4X trim adds serious off-road capability and aggressive styling, starting at $76,000, while the base model begins at $58,000. Inside, Nissan delivers a tech-savvy, button-loaded cockpit with a stunning infotainment system, 3D surround cameras, and plenty of smart storage solutions. Let’s break down what makes this Armada tick, where it shines, and how it stacks against its toughest competitors.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6, 425 hp, 515 lb-ft torque |
| Fuel Economy | Approx. 18 MPG combined (estimated) |
| Starting Price | Base model: $58,000; Pro-4X: $76,000; Platinum Reserve: $79,000 |
| Trim Highlight | Pro-4X: Off-road focused with lava red accents |
| Ground Clearance | 9.6 inches (with air suspension) |
| Infotainment | Large touchscreen with Google Maps, Alexa, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Unique Features | 3D surround cameras, dash cam, rear view mirror camera, terrain selector dial |
| Seating Configuration | Three rows; 2nd row bench or captain’s chairs; heated seats |
A Bold New Look and Powerful Engine: What’s Under the Hood?
The 2025 Nissan Armada ditches the old V8 engine that powered the SUV for the past 20 years and steps into the modern era with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6. This new engine cranks out 425 horsepower and a hefty 515 pound-feet of torque — that’s 25 more horsepower and 100 more pound-feet of torque than the outgoing V8. It’s a surprising switch because many fans loved the V8’s rumble and power, but Nissan’s move aims to balance performance with improved fuel efficiency.
While exact EPA numbers haven’t been finalized, the Armada’s luxury cousin—the Infiniti QX80—gets rated at about 18 miles per gallon, which is a modest improvement over the old Armada’s 16 MPG. Expect the new Armada to hover around this number. This is good news for buyers who want a big SUV but don’t want to constantly visit the gas station.
The new Pro-4X trim is a standout addition, designed for those who want serious off-road capability without sacrificing luxury. Priced from $76,000, it features rugged styling cues like lava red accents on the grille and interior, black all-terrain tires on 20-inch wheels, and protective skid plates. It’s Nissan’s answer to the Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro and Chevy Tahoe Z71, offering a blend of toughness and tech.
Inside the Armada: Tech Heaven for Button Lovers
One of the biggest leaps forward for the Armada is its interior. The old model’s cabin felt dated, but the 2025 redesign has upgraded everything—from materials to technology. Button lovers rejoice: the center console is filled with physical buttons, dials, and switches for everything from climate control to terrain selection and transmission gears. This makes for intuitive, tactile controls instead of fiddly touchscreens.
The infotainment system is impressive with a large touchscreen that supports Google Maps, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The home screen is customizable with widgets, making it easy to see what matters most. The gauge cluster is fully digital, configurable, and can display maps, music, or vehicle info as you prefer.
Parking and off-road maneuvers are a breeze thanks to a sophisticated camera system. Press a single button to activate a 3D surround view, top-down cameras, and even an “invisible” front camera that shows exactly what lies ahead—perfect for tight parking spots or tricky rock crawling.
Storage is thoughtfully designed with a two-tier center console: wireless charging and cup holders on top, and a deep storage compartment below. You’ll also find a fun Easter egg—a “Since 1951” badge—celebrating Nissan’s heritage.
Comfort and Luxury Upgrades
The Armada’s Platinum Reserve trim raises the bar with premium leather seats, exquisite stitching, and high-quality materials that rival the luxury Infiniti QX80. Heated and cooled seats, heated steering wheel, and rear climate controls make every ride comfortable for all passengers.
Room for Everyone: Practical Seating and Cargo Space
Space is king in the Armada. The second row offers both bench and captain’s chair options, with good legroom, knee room, and even heated seats. The bench option is a rarity in off-road trims, giving families flexibility. The seats fold and slide easily to allow access to the third row, which fits three passengers but is best for kids or short trips due to limited space.
The third row also includes USB-C charging ports and cup holders on both sides, though it lacks the lava red accents found in the front rows. Behind the last row, cargo space is decent but not huge, with some extra storage under the floor. Power-folding second and third rows add convenience, although only the third row folds automatically—you have to manually reset the second row.
On the Road: How Does the Armada Drive?
Driving the new Armada Pro-4X reveals a surprisingly composed and refined big SUV. Unlike many full-size SUVs based on truck platforms, which tend to feel floaty or unsettled, the Armada feels tighter and more controlled in corners. The steering offers a more precise and predictable experience compared to rivals like the Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro, which can feel bulky and ponderous on city streets.
The powertrain is smooth and responsive, providing plenty of mid-range torque that makes passing and merging effortless. While the Sequoia boasts higher horsepower and torque, the Armada’s V6 doesn’t feel lacking—it’s just more refined. Noise levels inside the cabin are impressively low, with minimal wind and tire noise, even on all-terrain tires.
Off-road capability is respectable, with 9.6 inches of ground clearance thanks to air suspension and a suite of terrain modes accessible via a dial. Although the Sequoia’s off-road hardware may be more advanced, Nissan’s approach favors a better on-road experience for most buyers, which is a smart move considering how many big SUV owners rarely leave paved roads.
Nissan’s ProPilot Assist adaptive cruise control works well, smoothly adjusting speed and distance. However, its lane-keeping isn’t quite as sharp as Toyota’s system, which might be a consideration for tech-savvy drivers.
Final Verdict: Can the 2025 Nissan Armada Take on the Big Guys?
The 2025 Nissan Armada is a shockingly strong contender in the full-size SUV market. It blends power, tech, comfort, and off-road toughness into a package that feels modern and well thought-out. Its biggest challenge might be winning over buyers loyal to stalwarts like the Toyota Sequoia or Chevy Tahoe, but for those looking for a refined, tech-forward, and pleasantly confident big SUV, the Armada deserves a serious look.
With a starting price under $60,000 and a Pro-4X trim packed with rugged flair and smart features, the new Armada stakes a strong claim. If Nissan’s brand appeal grows alongside this impressive redesign, the Armada could become a favorite for families and off-road enthusiasts alike.
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