2013 Nissan Armada Video Review

Though the full-size SUV has mostly given way to the 3-row crossover, there are still those who need more…more ruggedness, more towing and more space.  And filling that “living large” role is the Nissan Armada – now available with a special Platinum Reserve Package.

It’s been 10 years since the Armada’s debut and by in large the vehicle you’re looking at here is very much the same as the one first shown at the 2003 NY Auto Show.  Back then it was known as the Pathfinder Armada and though the name was shortened long ago to simply Armada, it still looks very much like a large version of the previous gen Pathfinder.  Built alongside the Titan pickup truck with which it shares its muscular body-on-frame backbone and brawny V8 powertrain, the Armada is scheduled for its first complete redesign in the 2015 model year.

But even though it’s aged, it’s still a very viable player in the 8-passenger, large SUV segment, which consists of the heavy hitters; the Ford Expedition and the Chevy and GMC twins along with the Toyota Sequoia.  And with a big price cut this year, the Armada offers value on scale with its enormous size.  Available in SV, SL and Platinum trims with either rear or 4-wheel drive, pricing starts at $37,885 while this Platinum Reserve 4X4 stickers for $55,685.

When you climb up into the helm, you’re greeted with a commanding view of the road ahead and a whole lot of vehicle behind you.  At almost 208” in length it’s a formidable people mover.  There’s also over 10” of ground clearance on my 4X4 tester so when the trail calls you’ll be ready.  The 4-wheel drive system is controlled through this dial with 4-selectable modes.

The new Platinum Reserve Package adds yet another level of luxury and exclusivity with 20” dark chrome wheels, dark chrome grille and outside mirrors, premium grade 2-tone Chocolate/Almond leather seating, light Anigre (Ah-Nee-Grey) wood trim and dark satin chrome interior accents.  The added cost is $2,090.

Another change this year is the move to a dual screen headrest mounted solution for the rear seat entertainment system.  But unlike the Toyota Sequoia, there’s no Blu-ray capability here.

Despite the typical signs of age like the use of some hard plastics and moments of questionable quality – the Armada’s cabin is an incredibly voluminous, quiet and highly versatile space.  There are buttons scattered seemingly everywhere to electronically perform a number of tasks – from rear window vents and power pedals to heated seats and a heated steering wheel…the convenience quotient is quite high.  And perhaps most beneficial to owners, the seats do their folding tricks with either power operation or with nifty tumbling action to create the exact space you need, affording seating for 6 more with a fairly generous 3^rd row to a flat load floor for hauling big items.  2^nd row Captain’s chairs are also available.

Though it generates 317 horsepower and 385 pound feet of torque, this 5.6-liter V8 is certainly due for its overhaul to improve power and efficiency.  Still, the Armada drives beautifully, tracks diligently and possesses that comfy, big SUV drivability with enough grunt to keep you happy.  Towing is also a plus at a hearty 9,000 pounds.  With its unfavorable aerodynamics and 5-speed automatic however, gas mileage is rated at only 12mpg city/18mpg highway.

I very much enjoyed my week as king of the road and though we’re closing in on the Armada’s next chapter, this one is quite the choice for really big families on a budget.