The 2018 Nissan Armada is available for sale at a base MSRP of $46,090 and now comes on four trims- SV, SL, Platinum, and Platinum Reserve. The Armada also adds Nissan Connect as a standard feature which includes an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and satellite radio. The rest of the specs remain the same as the outgoing model. The engine is the same 390-hp 5.7L V8 that is muscular to pull this 5,576-pound SUV from 0-60 MPH in 6.2 seconds.
2018 Nissan Armada three-quarter view
Its towing capacity is also rated at 8,500 pounds. However, it drinks more fuel than other competitors. The interior of the Armada has an appealing layout but an outdated infotainment system. It offers a spacious cabin for eight passengers but falls short of cargo capacity. The Armada earns average safety ratings but offers a long list of driver-assist features. The Armada stacks up against the Chevy Tahoe, the Ford Expedition, and the Toyota Sequoia.
Reintroduced last year, the Nissan Armada is largely known for its spacious interior and beefy V8 engine. Styling aside, the Armada offers a lot of features but none of them impress the latest generation as they are not modern. The Armada also suffers from poor fuel economy and less cargo space but its balanced handling and good towing capacity help to keep it alive in the segment.
The ownership costs of the Armada are on par with other Japanese rivals. You can expect around $11,440 every year for its maintenance, repair, fuel, depreciation, etc. The average cost per mile is calculated to be $0.76, which is mostly the same as other Japanese marques. However, it falls short in terms of reliability ratings. It scored 79 out of 100 while its rivals have much better ratings.
Features
7.0/10
With extra standard tech features this year, the Armada’s base SV trim increases in price to $46,090- CarGurus
With the addition of Platinum Reserve, the total trim count of the Nissan Armada is four. The other trims include SV, SL, and Platinum. The SV starts from $46,090 and it ranges up to $65,090 for the top-end Platinum Reserve trim. A destination charge of $1,195 is applicable at the time of purchase. Both RWD and 4WD configurations are available on the Armada.
2018 Nissan Armada side view
There is more than enough equipment to keep most families including the parents happy about driving. Nissan also offers a few optional packages for selected trims. The base SV trim is eligible for the $600 Driver package that adds fog lamps, trailer towing harness, power liftgate, trailer brake controller, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, universal garage door opener, and power-folding third-row seats.
Trims
SV
SL
Platinum
Platinum Reserve
MSRP (2WD)
$46,090
$50,850
$59,190
$62,190
MSRP (4WD)
$48,990
$53,750
$62,090
$65,090
Key Features
8-inch touchscreen with navigation
Adds/ Upgrades to SV trim
Adds/ Upgrades to SL trim
Adds/ Upgrades to Platinum trim
13-speaker Bose premium audio system
360-degree camera
Rear-seat entertainment system
Two-tone leather upholstery
18-inch alloy wheels
Power liftgate
Heated second-row seats
Dark chrome exterior trim
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Heated & ventilated front seats
20-inch dark chrome wheels
Power front seats
Leather-appointed seats
Heated steering wheel
Black Quartz & Pore wood interior trim
Heated front cloth seats
Heated exterior mirrors
Moonroof
Platinum Reserve badging
Rearview camera
20-inch alloy wheels
Adaptive cruise control
Front & rear parking sensors
Power-folding third-row seats
Automatic emergency braking
Leather steering wheel
Remote engine start
Lane departure warning
Push-button start
Forward collision warning
Satellite radio
Blind-spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
We Recommend
You should buy the SL trim but you need to upgrade to the Premium package as it lacks safety features. This trim adds a power liftgate, a 360-degree camera, power-folding third-row seats, remote engine start, rain-sensing windshield wipers, leather upholstery, 20-inch alloy wheels, and heated exterior mirrors. The Premium package adds blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, backup collision intervention, distance control, and a power moonroof with front tilt and rear slide.
In normal operation, the 5.6-liter engine is strong and quick, emitting a V-8 burble under moderate acceleration- Cars.com
2018 Nissan Armada Engine and Transmission
The Nissan Armada gets its power from a 5.6L V8 engine that makes 390 hp and 394 lb-ft. of torque. All that power is sent to a 7-speed automatic transmission which goes about its business quickly. All this power drives the rear wheels as standard but a full-time 4WD system is available on every Armada for an extra $2,900.
2018 Nissan Armada engine
This engine has an amazing throttle response and the sound of the V8 is just alluring. One of the nicest things about the transmission is it actually has auto rev-matching downshift. So, when you do ask for more power, you get a nice, smooth power delivery. But sometimes, this transmission hard shifts at low speeds and judders.
Models
2018 Nissan Armada
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
2018 Ford Expedition
2018 Toyota Sequoia
MSRP
$46,090
$47,500
$51,790
$ 48,600
Engine
5.6L V8
5.3L V8
3.5L Turbo V6
5.7L V8
Drivetrain
RWD
RWD
RWD
RWD
Transmission
7-Speed Automatic
6-Speed Automatic
10-Speed Automatic
6-Speed Automatic
Power
390 hp @ 5,800 RPM
355 hp @ 5,600 RPM
375 hp @ 5,000 RPM
381 hp @ 5,600 RPM
Torque
394 lb-ft. @ 4,000 RPM
383 lb-ft. @ 4,100 RPM
470 lb-ft. @ 3,500 RPM
401 lb-ft. @ 3,600 RPM
The Armada generates the most power in this competition The Ford Expedition is the odd one out here as it is the only SUV here with a turbocharged V6. The Toyota Sequoia is slightly less powerful than the Armada but it makes decent power. The Chevy Tahoe is the least powerful SUV and hence, grabs the last spot on the table.
2018 Nissan Armada Acceleration
The Nissan Armada propels pretty well for an SUV that weighs 5,576 pounds. It can sprint from 0-60 MPH in 6.2 seconds and can complete the quarter-mile test in 14.8 seconds with a top speed of 135 MPH. The grunty V8 is always ready to deliver smooth power whenever needed, therefore making it possible for brisk acceleration.
2018 Nissan Armada takes 6.2 sec to reach 60 MPH
Despite its bulky size, the Armada feels like a quick SUV. Floor the pedal and you will certainly feel all the 390 horses rushing to get this thing going with a good deal of quickness. The engine is really powerful and makes freeway merging and passing really easy. Therefore, Armana owners will definitely not be disappointed with its performance.
Models
2018 Nissan Armada
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
2018 Ford Expedition
2018 Toyota Sequoia
0-60 MPH
6.2 sec
7.5 sec
5.6 sec
6.6 sec
Quarter mile
14.8 sec
15.7 sec
14.2 sec
15.2 sec.
Engine
5.6L
5.3L
3.5L
5.3L
Top Speed
135 MPH
135 MPH
140 MPH
135 MPH
Surprisingly, the Ford Expedition defies its weight to be claimed as the fastest SUV in this competition. Considering the heavyweight of the Toyota Sequoia, it has good performance numbers. However, the poor performance of the Chevy Tahoe is due to its underpowered engine.
2018 Nissan Armada Ride and Handling
Unlike some other modern SUVs which have some aspirations of handling well and kind of sticking in the corners, the Armada feels old-school. It means it's just big and floaty. The Armada corners pretty decently for its size but still, at high speeds, you will feel all the bodyweight. Also, due to the lack of side bolstering in the seats, you will have to stay stiff at turns.
2018 Nissan Armada side driving view
The Nissan Armada is one of the comfiest SUVs on the market. The suspension is nice and soft and that equals a very comfortable ride. The steering in the Armada is quite light there's really no feedback coming through the wheel. The Armada isn't a hardcore off-roader but when you look at it for what it is, it does a pretty good job.
2018 Nissan Armada Braking
The Nissan Armada continues to outshine with its excellent braking performance. The wheels hide 13.8-inch ventilated disc brakes, both in the front and at the back. These brakes work in unison to bring this heavy SUV to a smooth stop from 60 MPH in 128 feet. That's a great number for an SUV of this size.
2018 Nissan Armada brakes
The strong stopping power of the brakes gives assurance to the driver to drive this SUV under any driving conditions. The pedal is firm and the brakes show an immediate response once the pedal is pressed. However, under hard braking conditions, there's a lot of body dive. Nissan should note this and try to improve its braking.
Models
2018 Nissan Armada
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
2018 Ford Expedition
2018 Toyota Sequoia
Brakes Front
13.8 in
13.0 in
13.5 in
13.9 in
Brakes Rear
13.8 in
13.6 in
13.2 in
13.6 in
Curb Weight
5,576 lbs
5,355 lbs
5,443 lbs
5,730 lbs
60-0 MPH
128 ft.
125 ft.
129 ft.
141 ft.
The Chevy Tahoe takes the shortest distance to halt from 60-0 MPH and its low curb weight plays a key role. The stopping distance of the Ford Expedition is almost the same as the Armada. However, the Toyota Sequoia stays far away from the competition due to its heavy curb weight and weak braking abilities.
2018 Nissan Armada Towing Capacity
Every Nissan Armada comes standard with a tow hitch and is capable of towing up to 8,500 pounds. It isn't at the top of any trailering ability but it will certainly tow a lot of boats, recreational vehicles, or even a race car trailer. So, apart from a family hauler and an off-roader, the Armada can also haul large loads with ease.
Models
2018 Nissan Armada
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
2018 Ford Expedition
2018 Toyota Sequoia
Towing Capacity
8,500 lbs
8,600 lbs
9,300 lbs
7,400 lbs
The Ford Expedition continues to keep surprising with its exceptional towing capacity of 9,300 pounds. In this area, the Chevy Tahoe tries to keep up with the Armada but the worst performer is the Toyota Sequoia. It can two up to only 7,400 pounds, which is the lowest in the class.
Around 6,000 pounds is a lot to lug around, so it’s no surprise that the 2018 Nissan Armada is among the thirstiest vehicles on the market today- The Car Connection
The Nissan Armada has one of the worst fuel economies in its segment. In normal form, it returns 14 MPG in the city, 19 MPG on a highway, and 16 MPG combined. The fuel economy slides down 1 MPG if the 4WD system is selected. These fuel estimates put the Armada on the bottom of the table in its segment.
2018 Nissan Armada three-quarter view
The Armada comes with a large 26-gallon fuel tank and hence, it delivers 429 miles in combined form while the 4WD models can drive up to 403 miles only. Compared to its rivals, the Armada's driving range is average. So, if you plan on buying the Armada, you better be ready to bring this SUV to the gas station all the time.
Models
2018 Nissan Armada
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
2018 Ford Expedition
2018 Toyota Sequoia
MPG (City)
14
16
17
13
MPG (Highway)
19
23
24
17
MPG (Combined)
16
19
20
15
Fuel Tank Capacity (Gallon)
26.0
26.0
23.3
26.4
Range (City/Highway/Combined; Miles)
364/494/429
416/598/507
396/559/477
343/449/396
The Ford Expedition has the best fuel ratings for a large SUV in this competition. Its driving range is also more than the Armada, though it houses a small fuel tank. The Chevy Tahoe is right behind it with 19 MPG combined gas mileage, which is still decent. The Toyota Sequoia's fuel economy is poor than the Armada and hence, has the lowest fuel estimates.
Despite its tall entry height and button-rich control layout, the Armada's interior is attractive and accommodating- Edmunds
2018 Nissan Armada Seating and Comfort
While the Nissan Armada might not be quite as posh as its Infiniti counterpart, the wood trim and the leather accent gets you just about 80% of the way to a luxury wheel. Still, the hard steering wheel plastics do call out as a mainstream vehicle. The Armada seats up to eight or seven if second-row captain chairs are selected. Only the SV trim gets cloth upholstery while the other models come with perforated leather seats. The front seats are very comfortable and supportive.
2018 Nissan Armada dashboard
They are power-adjustable and heated even on the SV trim while the Platinum trim also adds ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. There is a lot of legroom and loads of headroom for the driver and front passenger. The second-row fares nearly as well and the third row is plenty usable even if it is slightly less comfortable for adults than in the other chairs. Therefore, it is best reserved for kids. A moonroof is standard on the Platinum model but that does not cut the headroom.
Models
2018 Nissan Armada
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
2018 Ford Expedition
2018 Toyota Sequoia
Passenger Capacity
8
8
8
8
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
40.9/63.8/41.9
42.8/64.8/45.3
42.0/64.9/43.9
34.8/66.4/42.5
Second Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
40.0/63.4/41.0
38.7/65.1/39.0
40.0/64.8/41.5
34.9/65.6/40.9
Third Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)
36.4/60.5/28.3
38.1/62.6/24.8
37.3/64.2/40.9
34.5/65.7/35.3
The Chevy Tahoe offers the least third-row space in this class. On the flip side, the head and legroom offered in the third row of the Ford Expedition stand out in this competition. The Toyota Sequoia also offers more passenger space in the third row than the Armada but it lacks headroom in the first two rows as well.
2018 Nissan Armada Infotainment System
This is the area where the Nissan Armada really shows its age. An 8-inch touchscreen is standard on all models. But this touchscreen doesn't have normal functionalities such as pinch-to-zoom or even Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are becoming expected in all segments. This screen has low resolution and the graphics are unclear. The navigation system takes time to respond to the user's inputs.
2018 Nissan Armada infotainment system
This system is connected to a 13-speaker Bose premium audio system for keeping your journeys entertained. The grey physical buttons below the screen look cheap and ugly next to the wood trim. But all those controls are nicely placed within the driver's reach. The Platinum and Platinum Reserve models add a rear-seat entertainment system that includes dual 7-inch displays and a DVD player.
2018 Nissan Armada Interior Features
Cloth & leather upholstery
Power tilt & telescopic multi-function leather, heated steering wheel
Power front seats with heated & ventilated functions
Heated second-row seats
Moonroof
Power liftgate
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Push-button start
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Remote engine start
8-inch touchscreen display
13-speaker Bose premium sound system
Navigation system
Dual 7-inch screens rear-seat entertainment system
2018 Nissan Armada Cargo Capacity
For such a big vehicle, the Nissan Armada's cargo area is surprisingly petite. Dedicated cargo space of 16.5 cubic feet is available. You can put a row of grocery bags but not a whole of them. So, if you need more space, you're going to have to fold the third-row seats to get 49.9 cubic feet. If you are still not satisfied, fold the second-row seats as well to get 95.4 cubic feet of cargo space.
2018 Nissan Armada cargo space
The third-row seats can be power-folded on the SL trim and above. Also, a power tailgate is available from the SL trim. In terms of interior storage, the Armada might not be up to minivan standards in terms of cupholders but everyone from the driver to the third row is pretty well taken care of. There's a really deep well for a central storage upfront and the second-row compartment that's plenty versatile.
Models
2018 Nissan Armada
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
2018 Ford Expedition
2018 Toyota Sequoia
Cargo Capacity (cu-ft.)
16.5
15.3
20.9
18.9
The maximum cargo space available in the Toyota Sequoia is the best in the class. No other SUV is close to its offering. The closest to it is the Ford Expedition with a cargo space of 104.6 cubic feet. The Chevy Tahoe's cargo capacity is almost similar to the Armada. The Armada's cargo space isn't great but good enough to store your family's luggage for a long trip.
Rugged yet sophisticated, the Armada’s new design evokes the luxury-meets-utilitarian style of its Infiniti QX80 sibling and even some Range Rovers- Kelly Blue Book
2018 Nissan Armada Dimension and Weight
The Nissan Armada's styling is somewhat similar to the Infiniti QX80. The grille is Nissan's V-motion design with two extra areas on the outside that link it to the Titan. The headlight design is also exclusive to the Armada. They feature LED low beams with halogen high beams on all models. Every trim also gets premium-looking LED DRLs. Fog lamps are, however, standard on all trims except for the SV trim. Since the Armada shares its bones with the overseas Patrol, it gets some good off-roading features like a ground clearance of 9.1 inches.
2018 Nissan Armada three-quarter view
From the side view, you will notice that the wheel arches are grey-colored on all models. There are also functional air vents above the front wheel arch. The SV trim sits on 18-inch all wheels while the other trims get 20-inch alloy wheels. Each trim level of the Armada comes with a different design. The Armada also comes standard with running boards for easy egress and ingress. Coming to the back, you will see styling different from the boxy design rivals have. The taillights are LED on all models.
Models
2018 Nissan Armada
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
2018 Ford Expedition
2018 Toyota Sequoia
Curb Weight (lbs)
5,576
5,355
5,443
5,730
Length (in)
208.9
204.0
210.0
205.1
Width (in)
79.9
80.5
79.9
79.9
Height (in)
75.8
74.4
76.6
77.0
Ground Clearance (in)
9.1
7.9
9.8
9.9
Wheelbase (in)
121.1
116.0
122.5
122.0
Track Width (in) F/R
67.5/67.9
68.7/68.7
67.6/67.2
67.9/69.1
The Toyota Sequoia has the highest ground clearance in this class. Therefore, it is ready to tackle any kind of off-road terrain. At 210 inches, the Ford Expedition is the longest SUV in this competition. So, maneuvering at tight parking spots can be tough. The Chevy Tahoe has the shortest wheelbase here. As a result, it lacks adequate third-row space.
2018 Nissan Armada Exterior Features
The main exterior features of the Armada are given below:
The 2018 Nissan Armada hasn't been crash-tested by the IIHS- MotorTrend
The safety ratings obtained by the Nissan Armada aren't that impressive. It received a 4-star overall safety rating by NHTSA. Individually, it received five stars for the side-impact crash test and only three stars for the frontal and rollover crash test. Meanwhile, IIHS didn't care to conduct crash tests for the Armada.
2018 Nissan Armada crash test
To keep the occupants safe, the Armada offers a decent list of driver assistance features. The base SV trim has limited safety features while the Platinum and Platinum Reserve trims adds all the available driver aids. The SL trim buyers should upgrade to the optional Premium package for a few safety techs. These include:
The Chevy Tahoe is among the least powerful SUVs in its class. Hence, its performance is not worth appreciating. Also, its third row cannot accommodate adults. However, it's a step ahead of the Armada in terms of fuel economy, reliability, and technology. In view of safety, the Tahoe's safety features list almost matches with the Armada.
2018 Chevrolet Tahoe
2018 Nissan Armada vs 2018 Toyota Sequoia
Although the Toyota Sequoia is less powerful, it outshines the Armada with its extraordinary off-roading skills. However, its towing capacity is very less for a large SUV while its fuel economy is poor. The Sequoia has a roomy third row and class-leading cargo space but an outdated infotainment system. There are fewer driver-assist features in the Sequoia but all of them are standard.
2018 Toyota Sequoia
2018 Nissan Armada vs 2018 Ford Expedition
Starting at $51,790, the Ford Expedition is the most expensive car in this competition. Its V6 engine offers swift acceleration and great fuel economy. Moreover, its towing capacity is the best in the class. Its cabin is spacious in all three rows while its cargo capacity is the largest in the class. While its safety features equal the Armada, its excellent reliability makes it a better option.
2018 Ford Expedition
Final Verdict
The 2018 Nissan Armada is one of the fine options in this options but it has its cup of negatives. This is a thirsty vehicle so don't expect to get off the light when it comes time to pay the gas bill. It also has a slightly weird styling and the infotainment system is more than slightly behind the times. Therefore, you should take a look at the Armada if you want a big three-row, feature-rich SUV at somewhat of a bargain price. It's tough, it'll haul your boat and your kids and it'll stand out from the crowd, for better or for worse.
