2023 Nissan Armada Review: Golden Oldie
In this era of electrification and downsizing, the 2023 Nissan Armada appears to be a bit of a relic with its 400-horsepower 5.6-liter V8 engine that has a penchant for burning through gasoline at an alarming rate. But for the right type of buyer, there is no replacement - yet - for the trusty Armada. It can tow up to 8,500 pounds, seat up to eight occupants, and power through sandy terrain without breaking a sweat. It also has a plush, comfortable cabin as long as you aren't consigned to the third row. While we appreciate the body-on-frame Armada's old-school charm, more modern SUVs like the Jeep Wagoneer have moved the game on in terms of available technologies. Also, the big Armada can feel ponderous to drive on normal roads with its vague steering and rocking body motions. In our review of the Nissan Armada, we'll uncover whether its dated underpinnings have too many shortcomings in a class where there are many more modern alternatives.
What's The Price Of The 2023 Nissan Armada?
The price of the new 2023 Nissan Armada is one of its more attractive qualities. At $50,700, the cheapest model is the base S with rear-wheel drive. From there, the SV costs $55,250 and the SL goes for $58,670. The most expensive MSRP for the Nissan Armada is $67,020 for the fully loaded Platinum trim. Every trim can be upgraded to 4x4 for $3,000 more.
These prices of all these Nissan Armada trims exclude a destination charge of $1,795.
2023 Armada Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 208.9 in | 121.1 in | 75.8 in | 79.9 in | 67.5 in | 67.9 in | 5,651.0 lbs |
2023 Armada Performance
2023 Nissan Armada Handling and Driving Impressions
A large body-on-frame SUV based on a platform that is now over a decade old places the Nissan at an immediate disadvantage relative to more modern rivals, but the Armada isn't without its talents. A softly sprung vehicle, the big Nissan bowls along the highway quietly and smoothly, filtering out surface imperfections effectively for the most part. Larger dips do, however, result in the body moving around more than we'd like, the first sign that the Nissan's underpinnings can't entirely mask their age. This is not a vehicle to be hurried; despite its 400-hp output, the Nissan is happier being driven at a gentler pace.
When you're going fast and the road is twisty, the new Nissan Armada SUV is much less impressive. Quick changes of direction expose the vague steering, strong tendency to lean, and poor body control. Of course, nobody is expecting the responses of a Nissan Z car here, but the Armada is a bit of a lumbering giant anyway.
We've previously had the opportunity to test the Armada in soft sand and even over large dunes, and were very impressed with how effortlessly it handles such conditions. Here, the slower steering also makes more sense. In snowy and wet conditions, the available 4x4 system does a good job of helping the driver keep the Nissan under control.
2023 Armada Interior
2023 Armada Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 5 Years / Unlimited Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles |
Verdict: Is The 2023 Nissan Armada A Good SUV?
While its age prevents it from soaring to the top of the class, there is something to be said for an SUV with trusted mechanicals that's unlikely to let you down if you find yourself far from home. Between its refined V8 and sturdy underpinnings, the Armada is an attractive bet for long-term ownership, and the various updates it has received through the years have helped to keep it fresh. We also like the high-quality interior and smooth ride, but many other Nissan Armada competitors in the USA look and feel more modern. The Nissan will also cost a lot to run because of that thirsty V8, and it can be tiring to maneuver along a twisty road. And, although it's a third-row SUV, the third row isn't particularly spacious. But despite these shortcomings, the large Nissan is still capable and worth a look, especially in light of its attractive starting price.
What 2023 Nissan Armada Model Should I Buy?
A strong case can be made for the base Armada that starts at just over $50,000. It generally has more power than competitors at the same price point and still gets all the essential comfort and safety gear like power-adjustable front seats, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, blind-spot warning, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. The SV and SL add some nice features, but we wouldn't recommend the Platinum as its price is too close to the even more upscale Infiniti QX80.