Nissan Armada (2023) User Manual

The 2023 Nissan Armada sits proudly among the ranks of full-size, eight-passenger SUVs, battling it out with established players like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition. While it may not be the flashiest option on the market, the Armada offers a compelling blend of power, space, features, and value that make it a strong contender for families and adventurers alike.

Performance:

Under the hood lies a proven 5.6L V8 engine, churning out 390 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. This translates to confident acceleration and effortless highway cruising. While fuel economy isn’t a strong suit (expect around 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway), the Armada’s towing capacity of up to 8,500 pounds makes it a capable hauler for boats, trailers, and other toys.

Interior & Comfort:

The Armada boasts a spacious and comfortable cabin with seating for eight passengers across three rows. The second-row captain’s chairs offer ample legroom and individual climate controls, while the third row is surprisingly roomy for adults on shorter trips. High-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces elevate the interior’s ambiance, and standard features like tri-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a power moonroof contribute to overall comfort.

Technology & Features:

The Armada comes equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. While the system isn’t the most intuitive, it gets the job done. Higher trims upgrade to a larger 12.3-inch display with additional features like a digital gauge cluster and a rear-seat entertainment system. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning.

Pros:

• Powerful V8 engine with strong towing capacity
• Spacious and comfortable cabin with three rows of seating
• Standard features like tri-zone climate control and heated front seats
• Available advanced safety features and technology options
• Attractive starting price compared to competitors

Cons:

• Below-average fuel economy
• Infotainment system could be more user-friendly
• Some interior materials lack the refinement of competitors
• Third-row seat access can be tight

Verdict:

The 2023 Nissan Armada is a strong contender in the full-size SUV segment. It offers a potent powertrain, ample space and comfort, a good list of standard features, and a competitive price tag. While fuel economy isn’t a highlight, and the infotainment system could be improved, the Armada delivers a practical and capable package for families and those who need a powerful towing companion. If you prioritize interior refinement and cutting-edge technology, some competitors might be worth considering. However, if value, space, and power are your top concerns, the Nissan Armada deserves a serious look.