2018 Nissan Armada: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2018 Nissan Armada is a full-size, body-on-frame SUV designed for those who need robust capability and comfortable, spacious seating for up to eight passengers. Building on its Nissan Titan truck platform, the Armada offers a compelling blend of towing prowess, a smooth ride, and a surprisingly luxurious interior, making it a strong contender in the large SUV segment.
Highlights
- Engine and Performance: The heart of the 2018 Armada is its powerful 5.6-liter Endurance V8 engine, producing a robust 390 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque. This V8 is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth, confident power delivery for both everyday driving and heavy-duty tasks. The Armada comes standard with rear-wheel drive, with intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD) available for enhanced traction in various conditions. Its body-on-frame construction and independent suspension contribute to a comfortable ride, even when unladen, while also providing the rigidity needed for towing.
- Safety Features: Nissan equips the 2018 Armada with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assist technologies, often referred to as the Nissan Safety Shield 360. Key features include:
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Detects potential frontal collisions and automatically applies the brakes to mitigate or avoid impact.
- Blind Spot Warning (BSW): Alerts the driver when a vehicle is detected in the vehicle's blind spot.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA): Warns the driver of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space.
- Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC): Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, adjusting speed automatically.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW) & Lane Departure Prevention (LDP): Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane and can subtly steer the vehicle back into the lane.
- Backup Camera: Provides a visual aid when reversing. Higher trims may offer more advanced 360-degree camera systems.
- Trim Summary: The 2018 Armada is offered in three distinct trims, each building upon the capabilities and features of the previous:
- Armada SV: The entry-level trim provides a strong foundation with the powerful V8 engine, a comfortable interior, and essential features like tri-zone automatic climate control and NissanConnect infotainment with an 8-inch touchscreen.
- Armada SL: Stepping up to the SL adds more premium features and advanced technology, including leather-appointed seating, a power liftgate, Nissan's Intelligent Key with Remote Engine Start, and a premium Bose® audio system.
- Armada PLATINUM: The top-tier Platinum trim offers the most luxurious and feature-rich experience. It includes perforated Nappa leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a dual-panel moonroof, and the advanced Nissan Navigation System.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Towing Capability: With its robust V8 and robust construction, the 2018 Armada boasts a maximum towing capacity of up to 8,500 pounds, making it ideal for hauling boats, campers, or other large trailers.
- Spacious and Refined Interior: The Armada's cabin is notably spacious, offering ample legroom and headroom for all three rows. The design emphasizes comfort and a premium feel, with quality materials and a quiet ride.
- Family-Friendly Features: Available features like a rear-seat entertainment system and ample USB ports make it a great choice for families on long road trips.
What to Expect
Ownership of a 2018 Nissan Armada typically revolves around its core strengths: capability, comfort, and space. Expect a commanding driving position and a smooth, stable ride, even on rougher roads. The V8 engine provides plenty of power for merging onto highways or accelerating with a full load.
Maintenance: As a full-size body-on-frame SUV with a V8 engine, the Armada will generally follow the typical maintenance schedule for this class of vehicle. Regular oil changes, fluid checks, tire rotations, and brake inspections will be standard. Nissan's reliability for this generation of Armada is generally considered good, but as with any vehicle, proactive maintenance is key to long-term satisfaction. Expect routine service costs to be in line with other large SUVs.
Insurance: Insurance premiums for the 2018 Nissan Armada will likely be moderate to high, reflecting its size, powerful engine, and the cost of potential repairs due to its complexity and feature set. Factors like your driving record, location, age, and chosen coverage levels will significantly impact your specific insurance rates.
Potential Considerations
- Fuel Economy: The powerful 5.6-liter V8 engine, while delivering excellent performance, comes at the cost of fuel efficiency. Expect EPA estimated fuel economy ratings to be on the lower side, typical for this segment of large, body-on-frame SUVs.
- Maneuverability: Due to its full-size dimensions, the Armada can feel cumbersome in tight urban environments or during parking maneuvers. While its turning radius is respectable for its class, drivers accustomed to smaller vehicles may need some adjustment.
- Third-Row Access: While the Armada offers seating for up to eight, access to the third row can be a bit tight for adults, although it's generally good for children. Power-folding second-row seats on higher trims can ease this process.
- Infotainment Responsiveness: While the 8-inch touchscreen is a decent size, some users have noted that the infotainment system's responsiveness can occasionally be less fluid compared to some competitors.
Overall Summary
The 2018 Nissan Armada is a capable and comfortable full-size SUV that excels at towing, passenger comfort, and offering a refined driving experience for a vehicle of its size. Its potent V8 engine, well-appointed interior, and comprehensive suite of safety features make it a compelling choice for families and individuals who require robust utility without sacrificing on luxury and a smooth ride. While fuel economy and maneuverability in tight spaces are areas to consider, the Armada delivers on its promise of a powerful and spacious SUV experience.