2020 Nissan Armada

Overview

The 2020 Nissan Armada isn't the most popular large SUV, but its bold design and serene interior are underrated compared with more mainstream rivals. The three-row Nissan can haul up to eight people and tow as much as 8500 pounds, which puts it right in the mix with competitors such as the Chevy Tahoe and the GMC Yukon. While the Armada lacks those SUVs' excellent infotainment systems and designated luxury models, it does deliver a smoother ride and more consistent build quality across the lineup. It also has standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking as well as more optional driver assists. The 2020 Armada may not sell as well as more familiar SUVs, but it has the capabilities and content to deserve similar attention.

What's New for 2020?

The 2020 Armada carries over mostly unchanged except for a new standard feature and a newly optional package. Every model now has heated exterior mirrors. Also, the Armada is now available with a 22-inch Wheel package that adds uniquely style 22-inch wheels wrapped in all-season tires.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

We think the SL model strikes the best balance of desirable features and suitable value in the Armada lineup. Every SL has standard equipment such as 20-inch wheels, 360-degree camera system, leather upholstery, remote start, and more. Those who want the all-weather capability of all-wheel drive can add it for an additional $3000. Among the options to choose, we think the Premium package (adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitor, rear automated emergency braking, and sunroof) is worth the coin. Likewise, the Captain's Chairs package converts the standard second-row bench into a pair of buckets that also make it easier to access the third row.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

A powerful V-8 engine with a civilized seven-speed automatic transmission is the Armada's only powertrain. That combination pairs with either rear- or all-wheel drive and is capable of towing up to 8500 pounds. Although the Armada has impressive quickness, it lacks engine options, and its passing power trails speedier rivals. Still, its 390-hp V-8 has satisfying thrust that is especially evident around town. The Armada takes only 5.9 seconds to zip from zero to 60 mph—matching the Nissan Maxima sedan—and makes hearty exhaust sounds while doing so.

Despite what its size suggests, the Armada handles surprisingly well. Sure, its soft suspension has an air of floatiness, but that doesn't negatively affect the driver's sense of control. Our test car had a very comfy and quiet ride even though it rolled on large 20-inch wheels (18-inchers are standard). While it is far from sporty, the Armada feels more refined than its GM rivals; those alternatives, however, have much better steering feedback than the Nissan. Imprecise and slow to react, the Armada's helm allows the SUV to wander on the highway like a member of its Spanish namesake. The Nissan had the shortest emergency-braking distance of these tests, stopping from 70 mph in 182 feet. Its brake pedal had minimal travel and consistent, progressive feedback.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

None of the gargant-UVs in this class have spectacular fuel economy, but the Armada is by far the most unspectacular. Its EPA estimates and real-world test results are the lowest among the rivals we tested. The all-wheel-drive version matched its 18-mpg highway rating on our 200-mile fuel-economy test route. That was less than its competitors, but most of them underachieved in our test.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

A cushy and spacious interior supplements the Armada's classy outer shell. Its cabin is well insulated from outside noise, and material quality has improved drastically compared with the previous generation. Although there are minor styling missteps and fewer options than its rivals offer, the Armada still feels fancy, and it has more third-row legroom than similar-size alternatives. The top-of-the-line Platinum Reserve model adds a two-tone theme, quilted seat surfaces, and imitation open-pore wood trim. Unfortunately, the glossy wood on our Platinum test vehicle looked dated, as did the scrunched leather on the door panels that mimic poufy leather couches from the early 1990s. The three-row Armada can accommodate up to eight passengers and a competitive amount of cargo. Although a small bin in the center console limits interior cubby storage, the Nissan adds a second-row center console with the optional captain's chairs. The second-row captain's chairs on our test Armada folded easily and quickly with a handle that springs the seat forward; resetting the seat must be done manually, however. The power-folding third row (standard on the SL and up) can be adjusted via buttons in the cargo area or on the third row's armrests, but snails move faster.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Every Armada has a NissanConnect infotainment system that includes navigation, copious power outlets, and a 13-speaker Bose audio system. Fancier models add a rear-entertainment system and extra connection points. However, the standard 8.0-inch touchscreen responded slowly in our testing and lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)

View Crash Test Results

The Armada earned a four-star crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but it still hasn't been evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Every model has a host of driver-assistance technology such as forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking. Other key safety features include:

• Standard automated emergency braking
• Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
• Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The Armada's warranty coverages are more or less average. Nissan also doesn't offer any complimentary scheduled maintenance, unlike the Chevrolet Tahoe and the GMC Yukon.

• Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance