The Nissan Armada continues to be a lot of SUV for the money, especially for those who needs lots of guts for hauling. That includes hauling eight passengers in its three rows of seats. Or hauling cargo in its cavernous cabin with all of those seats folded down. Or hauling a trailer, thanks to its brawny powertrain. Among full-size SUVs, it might be a steal.
For 2015, the Armada gets redesigned door trims, new exterior color choices and new 20-inch wheel designs for SL and Platinum trim levels.
The Armada comes with just one engine and transmission, a 5.6-liter 317-horsepower unit with a five-speed automatic transmission. There's a choice of rear- or four-wheel drive on each of the three trim levels. The three trim levels differ mostly on equipment level and appointments, though there are features exclusive to each level.
The SV comes well-equipped to start with features such as Bluetooth, 18-inch alloy wheels, power driver's seat, adjustable pedals, rear parking sensors and dual-zone automatic climate control. The available towing package brings capacity up to 8,200 pounds on two-wheel drive models. The Driver Package adds key features such as a backup camera, Homelink transmitter, power liftgate and Bose audio system.
Mid-level SL adds niceties such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, Bose audio, backup camera, keyless entry and start, power liftgate and 20-inch wheels. The only option on the SL is a power moonroof.
The top Platinum level is loaded with a rear entertainment system featuring dual 7-inch screens, navigation, a power moonroof, front parking sensors, a heated steering wheel and chrome wheels. Second-row captain's chairs are available, reducing capacity to seven. The Reserve Pack includes special brown carpets and interior trim, as well as dark chrome wheels and exterior trim.
Since newer rivals are more refined, the Armada makes more sense as a workhorse, so logic dictates sticking with SV. That said, the SL adds a lot of amenities that would cost thousands more on a similarly equipped Tahoe or Expedition, so that may be the Armada buyer's sweet spot.
