Nissan has just taken the wraps off a big update for its full-size SUV, the Armada. Despite losing two cylinders in the generational renewal, the vehicle now has more power, more space inside, better tech, and improved design for 2025.
Those extra horses are supplied by a 3.5L twin-turbocharged V6 that is the most powerful in its class, barring hybrids and EVs. In all, the engine makes 425 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, which is an improvement of 25 hp and 103 lb-ft over the outgoing V8.
Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, the new powertrain allows the Armada to tow up to 8,500 pounds (3,855 kg) and all trims will be equipped with a new and improved blind spot monitor that can be configured to the length of an owner’s trailer, to help them make safer lane changes. Higher trim models will also be equipped with Nissan’s Integrated Trailer Brake Controller to make towing easier.
High-end models like the Platinum Reserve and the new Pro-4X models also come equipped with a load-levelling air suspension. With it, the Armada can be raised, for better off-road capability, or lowered, for better aerodynamics on the highway or to make loading things into the vehicle easier.
First-Ever Armada Pro-4X
Speaking of off-road capability, the Pro-4X trim seeks to take the Armada farther off the beaten track than any example before. New to the model for 2025, the package includes 20-inch wheels shod in 275/60R20 all-terrain tires, an electronic locking rear differential, a metal skid plate, its own rugged front fascia, and, of course, the air suspension. That last feature helps provide up to 9.6 inches (244 mm) of ground clearance, an approach angle of 33.9 inches (861 mm), a 25.3-inch (643 mm) breakover angle, and a 24.3-inch (617 mm) departure angle.
The model also benefits from higher-tech off-roading technology, such as hill descent control, and a forward camera view that allows driver to “see through” the hood, helping them avoid dangerous rocks and obstacles on the trail. Finally, the Armada Pro-4X gets functional tow hooks, special badging on the wheel caps and D-pillars, LED fog lights, black fender flares, mirror covers and roof rails, as well as Lava Red accents, to help it match other Pro-4X models, like the Frontier.
The rest of the lineup benefits from a significant visual update, that brings cleaner, boxier lines to the Armada. For 2025, the model will be offered with wheels that go from 20 to 22 inches, depending on trim, and a rear windscreen wiper that is located at the top of the glass, under the spoiler, which gives the vehicle a cleaner look and helps improve rearward visibility, the automaker explains.
The 2025 Armada will be offered in Alpine Metallic, Brilliant Silver Metallic, Gun Metallic, Super Black, Coulis Red Pearl, Aspen White Tricoat, Everest White Pearl Tricoat and Deep Ocean Blue Pearl. Alternatively, Platinum, Platinum Reserve, and Pro-4X models will be available with a two-tone colour option, in which a Super Black roof can be combined with the following colours: Alpine Metallic, Gun Metallic, Coulis Red, Aspen White or Everest White.
The SUV has also been significantly improved inside, and will offer 24 per cent more cargo space behind the third row of seats than the outgoing Armada. That amounts to a total of 20.4 cubic feet (578 L) behind the last row, 56.3 cubic feet (1,594 L) behind the second row, and 97.1 cubic feet (2,750 L) behind the front seats.
High-Tech Toys
It’s not all about rugged capability for 2025, though, as those first and second-row seats will (optionally) be power adjustable in 12 directions, will feature quilted leather upholstery, and can be heated. The best is reserved for the front row, though, which offers a massaging capability. The new Armada will also be equipped with an optional roof-mounted infrared camera that can measure first and second-row occupants’ body temperature and raise or lower the cabin temperature if it determines they are too hot or cold.
Facing forward, the driver will be greeted by a pair of screens. In the Armada SL, both the instrument display and the infotainment touchscreen measure in at 12.3 inches, but in higher trims, the touchscreen is upgraded to a 14.3-inch unit. The screens will run Google Built-in technology, giving drivers access to Google Maps, Assistant, and Play Store right from their dashboard. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also standard.
All Armadas will be equipped with Nissan’s ProPilot driver assistance technology, which offers adaptive cruise control and some steering assistance. The Platinum Reserve Captain’s Chairs model, however, comes with ProPilot 2.1, which allows drivers to take their hands off the wheel, provided they pay attention to the road.
For 2025, Nissan will offer the Armada in five trim levels: SL, PRO-4X, Platinum, Platinum Reserve and Platinum Reserve Captain's Chairs. Prices have not yet been released, but sales are set to start late this year.
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