Summary

  • The 2023 Nissan Armada stands out among SUVs with its old-school looks, and rugged-body on-frame underpinnings.
  • It is powered by a 400-horsepower V-8 engine that provides impressive towing capacity and acceleration, outperforming competitors like the Chevrolet Tahoe.
  • The Armada offers a luxurious interior, spacious seating, advanced technology, and safety features, making it a regal contender in the full-sized SUV market.

In a universe where colossal SUVs like the Toyota Sequoia, Cadillac Escalade, and Ford Expedition often dictate the full-size SUV space, the Nissan Armada holds its own unique charm. The Armada has been around for a while, but it's still full of energy, looks good, and offers great value for the money.

Rewinding to 2021, the Armada flaunted a fresh facelift and new technology, and by 2023, its evolution will continue. Sophisticated enhancements like Amazon Alexa's synergy in premium trims and LED fog lights are just the tip of the iceberg. In a world that's freezing, the SL trim's heated steering wheel promises a touch of warmth.

Beneath its elegant demeanor, the Armada houses a beast — a 400-horsepower V-8 engine that boasts a towing might of 8,500 pounds, ensuring that it doesn’t just move, but it glides with authority. Inside, comfortable leather seats, screens for entertainment, and beautiful wood finishes make you think of the luxury you'd find in brands like Bentley.

However, its robust heart, while charming, does yearn for fuel. And while giants like the Chevy Tahoe might pose fierce competition, the Armada, with its perfect balance of comfort, panache, and potent power, stands out in its own unique way among SUVs.

Related: The Best Three-Row Mid-Size SUV Yet?

Mighty Power With Gentle Poise

2023 Nissan Armada
Nissan

Under the hood of the 2023 Nissan Armada is a powerful setup. Working perfectly with its seven-speed automatic transmission, the Armada's 5.6-liter V-8 engine gives out a strong 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque on premium gasoline.

Performance enthusiasts might recall a milestone from 2021 when this beast was energized with an additional 10 horsepower and 19 pound-feet of torque. The results speak for themselves: At Edmunds' test track, the Armada catapulted from a standstill to 60 mph in an impressive 6.7 seconds. That's faster than the Chevrolet Tahoe and its 5.3-liter V-8 by a noticeable margin.

And when it comes to halting that formidable momentum? The Armada doesn't flinch. Its braking system reins in its energy from 60 mph in a mere 123 feet, setting standards that leave rivals trailing in its wake.

2023 Nissan Armada Specifications

Specification

Details

Engine Type

5.6-liter V-8

Power Output

400 horsepower

Torque

413 pound-feet

Transmission

7-speed automatic (Adaptive Shift Control & Downshift Rev Matching)

Drive Options

Rear-wheel or Four-wheel (Advanced Auto 4WD system)

0-60 mph

6.7 seconds

Braking (60-0 mph)

123 feet

Fuel Efficiency (RWD)

14 mpg (city), 19 mpg (highway)

Fuel Efficiency (4WD)

13 mpg (city), 18 mpg (highway)

Just as every masterpiece hides intricate details that beg a closer look, the 2023 Nissan Armada has some special features. Even though it's big, it moves smoothly. And while its steering is easy, it hints that the car has a strong heritage behind it.

Yet, where the Armada truly stirs the soul is in its balance of raw energy and fine old-school engineering. Its prowess might suggest a thirst that reflects at the gas station, but isn't true art often a dance of give and take? Its fast speed is exciting, making those few extra stops feel like quick breaks in a fun journey.

Related: 10 Best SUVs With Affordable Maintenance Costs

The Embodiment Of Luxury And Comfort

2023 Nissan Armada
Nissan

The 2023 Nissan Armada seamlessly blends the luxury of a premium SUV with the ruggedness of a body-on-frame platform. At first glance, its opulent interior, characterized by quilted leather seats and a well-orchestrated dash design, showcases the lavish side of the Armada. But as you dive deeper, the full narrative emerges.

The Armada is big on space and knows where to give the most room. Those in the front seats have lots of space for their legs. Moving to the middle seats, they are comfy and great for short or long trips. But the last row is best for kids; taller adults might want a bit more room.

Amidst the luxury, functionality isn't forgotten. The captain’s chairs, with their intuitive fold mechanism, simplify access, though re-engagement calls for a manual touch. As you toggle between the rows, Armada's vast cargo space becomes evident, demonstrating its practical edge.

One might be forgiven for assuming that an SUV as capacious and luxurious as the Armada might be a challenge to pilot, akin to steering a colossal vessel. Yet, the Armada defies such assumptions. With responsive steering, excellent turning radius, and a suspension that marries comfort with stability, it's as agile as it comes.

2023 Nissan Armada Features

  • Interior Ambiance: Quilted leather seats, imitation open-pore wood trim, and an upscale design reminiscent of luxury brands.
  • Seating: Up to eight passengers; optional second-row captain's chairs.
  • Cargo Capacity: 16.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to a massive 95.4 cubic feet with seats folded.
  • Towing: A formidable capacity of 8,500 pounds, consistent across both rear- and four-wheel drive models.
  • Maneuverability: Light steering, excellent turning radius, and a car-like drive despite its size.
  • Visibility: Enhanced by the SUV’s boxy design, complemented by a surround-view camera system for hassle-free parking.
  • Infotainment: A large central screen, albeit with graphics that may feel slightly dated.
  • Comparative Size: Falls between the 2023 Toyota Sequoia and the 2022 Ford Expedition in terms of legroom and cargo space.

However, nothing's perfect. On highway cruises, the Armada may occasionally wander, asking for a vigilant hand at the helm. But it's a minor quirk in an otherwise masterful driving experience.

Related: Here's Why The Nissan Armada Is The Best V-8 SUV On The Market Today

Tech-Savvy Titan: A Closer Look At Armada's Offerings

2023 Nissan Armada
Nissan

The 2023 Nissan Armada stands out as a regal contender in the full-sized SUV market. At its heart, an impressive 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system attracts tech enthusiasts. Paired with both Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay, it offers seamless connectivity on the move. Audiophiles can rejoice with the mid-level SL variant, as it amplifies the ride with a 13-speaker Bose audio setup. Not to be outdone, the Platinum edition elevates in-cabin entertainment, boasting dual 8.0-inch screens for rear passengers.

Functionality gets its nod too. While the cargo space can play hard to get, the Armada stands tall with an 8,500-pound tow capacity, comparable to the revered Chevy Tahoe. And when it comes to convenience and style, LED fog lights, power liftgates, and heated seats (stretching to the second row!) take center stage in the higher trims.

Safety isn't just a buzzword for the Armada. It's a commitment. With features such as lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, and Nissan’s Safety Shield 360, it's designed to cocoon its passengers. While official safety ratings await, Nissan's warranty coverage offers peace of mind.

2023 Nissan Armada Tech, Safety, And Infotainment

  • 12.3-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay
  • Standard safety tech — Lane-keeping, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control
  • 13-speaker Bose audio system (SL & Platinum trims)
  • Platinum exclusive — Dual 8.0-inch rear-seat entertainment screens
  • Towing capacity — 8,500 pounds
  • Warranty — 3 years/36,000 miles limited and 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain.

Related: 10 Best Large SUVs Under $60,000

Aging With Grace: The 2023 Nissan Armada's Prowess and Pricing

2023 Nissan Armada
Nissan

The 2023 Armada’s pricing has seen a nominal uptick across the board, reflecting the enhancements made over the previous year. The base model, the Armada S 4×2, sets the stage at $50,700, making it the most affordable V-8-powered SUV on the market. On the other end, the range-topping Armada Platinum 4×4 wears a tag of $69,720. Each model is accentuated by a $1,695 destination and handling fee, a slight increment from the previous year.

2023 Nissan Armada Pricing

Model

Price

Armada S 4×2

$50,700

Armada S 4×4

$53,700

Armada SV 4×2

$54,950

Armada SV 4×4

$57,950

Armada SL 4×2

$58,370

Armada SL 4×4

$62,120

Armada Platinum 4×2

$66,720

Armada Platinum 4×4

$70,370

While the Armada might be in the twilight of its current design, ready for its 2024 revamp, it effortlessly rides shoulder to shoulder with its contemporaries. Its V-8 engine isn’t just an engine; it's a statement. It effortlessly juggles power with an auditory symphony, ensuring your drive is as memorable as your destination.