Nissan Armada is an impressive, classic SUV built on the Patrol platform but intended for the US market. The model entered Russia through parallel imports, and now this rare guest from across the ocean reminds us what a real frame "Japanese" car can be without compromises.
The Armada model is essentially an American version of the Patrol, but with a different name and tuning. Externally, it is a huge car with a length of 5.32 m and a width of 2.12 m. It has retained the recognizable features of its predecessors but has become more streamlined and modern. The new frame is 57% stronger than the previous one, and the body is 25% more resistant to torsion. The independent suspension all around ensures stability on the highway and smoothness on uneven surfaces, while the air suspension allows you to change the ground clearance from 193 to 297 mm.
The interior is typical for an American Nissan: spacious, comfortable, and a bit conservative. It features leather trim, a massive front panel, a large 12-inch multimedia screen, and a digital instrument panel with rich graphics. The top-end Platinum Reserve version has ventilation, heating, and massage for the front seats, a head-up display, and premium acoustics. The second row has its own "climate" control, USB ports, and backrest tilt adjustment. Even the third row is not just for show – adults up to 180 cm tall can fit there, with their own cup holders and outlets.
The multimedia system interface remains proprietary and a bit outdated: the graphics and menus resemble older Nissan models. However, the controls are well thought out – there are physical buttons and knobs for climate, suspension, and all-wheel-drive modes. The trunk can accommodate a couple of suitcases with all rows in place, and if you fold down the second row, the volume increases to almost 3 cubic meters.
Under the hood is a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 425 hp and 700 N·m, which works with a 9-speed "automatic". Acceleration to 100 km/h takes about 7 seconds, and there is enough torque to tow trailers weighing up to 3.9 tons. The engine pulls smoothly and confidently, with a slight rumble – the Armada drives calmly but impressively. There is a slight turbo lag, but the gearbox works smoothly and predictably.
On the road, the Armada behaves like a true heavyweight: it handles precisely but with a bit of laziness. The steering is pleasant – firm and informative, the body roll is moderate, and the ride is impressive. On 22-inch wheels, the car calmly swallows bumps and ridges, maintaining silence and confidence in the cabin. The air suspension automatically lowers when parking, making it easier to get in, and rises back up when driving.
The Armada feels confident off-road, although it is designed more for comfortable travel than for storming swamps. All-wheel drive, locks, and assistants allow you to confidently move on sand, mud, and snow, but the vast majority of owners, as before, will not go beyond the gravel road.
In the USA, the Nissan Armada is offered in 13 colors and several trim levels, but in Russia, black and white versions are most common. The cost of such an SUV is about 13.3 million rubles. This is, of course, an exclusive: there are only a few such cars on the Russian market, and you will have to organize the warranty and service yourself.
Nevertheless, the Armada is a rare example of a real big "Japanese" car in an American design. It combines modern technology, spaciousness, and comfort with the spirit of classic frame SUVs.
