2021 Nissan Armada Sweeps In With More Power And Sharper Suit

Following a fairly short buildup that included a video teaser a couple of days ago, Nissan has taken the covers off its thoroughly refreshed 2021 Armada. In our 2020 review of the Nissan Armada, we said that its cabin design had become rather dated, so we're happy to report that the changes include fresh materials and better integration of technology than before.

Starting outside, though, the Armada wears its new face rather well. The LED headlights - there are 50 LEDs in each headlamp - grille, and hood are all new, and it becomes the first Nissan to sport the brand's updated logo. At the back, there are also new LED lights while the Midnight Edition gains blacked-out exterior accents.

Customers will be able to choose from seven exterior colors including Mocha Almond Pearl and Brilliant Silver Metallic, while Coulis Red Pearl is a new addition. Overall, the new look works well and the Armada retains its powerful presence, while not straying too far from an earlier render completed well over a year ago.

The Armada's large cabin has received a significant update. Notably, a new 12.3-inch color screen is claimed to be the biggest in the segment - it's a massive upgrade from the eight-inch screen used before. Wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot are standard, while wireless charging is available. Along with this is a new seven-inch Advanced Driver Assist Display. The high-tech approach continues on the Platinum model, which gets a standard intelligent rearview mirror with a 50 percent bigger screen size.

The lavishly equipped Platinum also comes with a standard family entertainment system with dual eight-inch monitors and an HDMI input. The full-size SUV is more practical too, though, thanks to a redesigned center console that can be opened from the front or the back. Other Armada firsts include Nissan Concierge, forming part of the NissanConnect Services Convenience plan, with quick 24-hour access to a live assistant.

As before, SV, SL, and Platinum derivatives will be on offer, although Nissan promises that an S will be offered at a later date. The Midnight Edition Package is available for the SL. Regardless of the model, every Armada gets blind-spot warning, lane departure warning, and forward-collision warning. Rear door alert, a feature that reminds drivers of forgotten items in the back seat, has been added as a new standard feature.

While the 2021 Nissan Armada is still powered by a 5.6-liter Endurance V8 engine, outputs are now up from 390 horsepower/394 lb-ft of torque previously to 400 hp/413 lb-ft now. Those numbers match the outputs of the Infiniti QX80. That being said, the Armada's towing capacity remains at 8,500 pounds. However, a new trailer brake controller and trailer sway control are available. Power is directed to the rear wheels or all four corners.

Nissan has not yet released pricing for the 2021 Armada and an on-sale date hasn't been announced just yet. With its fresher styling, more powerful engine, and improved cabin, the latest Armada looks like an exceptional full-size SUV.