Article Contributed on: 10/28/2009 7:36:26 PM
The 2010 Nissan Armada is based on the Titan full-size pickup, and is one big SUV. It is as big as a Ford Expedition, and it's longer than the Toyota Sequoia or Chevy Tahoe. The Armada could be called an American vehicle as it is designed in California and built at Nissan's $1.4 billion factory in Canton, Mississippi.
The Nissan Armada is bigger than big and aptly named after the Spanish fleet of ships. Nearly 207 inches long, it's a foot longer than the Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon, three inches longer than the Toyota Sequoia and an inch longer than the Ford Expedition. Armada comes equipped with a powerful V8 that betters its competition at 317 horsepower and 385 pound feet of torque. Stand on the gas and Nissan's 5.6 liter engine delivers immediate throttle response and quick acceleration.
Rated to tow up to 9,100 lbs, Armada boasts the best towing capability in its class. A smooth five-speed automatic transmission adds to the responsiveness of the 32-valve overhead cam V8. Having five gears to choose from makes the Armada very responsive and the transmission can always find the right gear.
The substantial torque is available even at low rpm, providing confidence inspiring power when merging into heavy traffic on I-25, pulling heavy loads up I-70, or maneuvering off road in Colorado's high country. The 4WD Armada isn't for those looking for a fuel efficient vehicle getting an EPA 12/18 mpg City/Highway fuel economy rating. But for those needing to haul a boatload of people or cargo, the Armada will definitely do that in comfort. Its wide stance and long wheelbase made for a very comforting ride up Floyd Hill in a recent early snow storm. With the touch of a control on the dash you can switch on-the-go from 2WD to 4WD making it very convenient when driving conditions change.
Armada easily accommodates seven or eight passengers in a roomy cabin that's comfortable, convenient and nicely appointed. The eight-way adjustable driver's seat was very comfortable and gives you a commanding view of the road. Adjustable pedals and a tilting steering column help insure the proper driving position for drivers of all heights. My wife commented that she liked not having to sit so close to the steering wheel. The back seats offer a sea of space. Families told Nissan they needed more room in the second row than what is available in other full-size SUV's, so the Armada was designed with best-in-class rear legroom. The second row seats recline so you can really stretch out. Third row seats are raised, stadium style, for better forward visibility by those sitting back there, and the second-row seats easily flip down out of the way when getting in and out of the third row. Once seated, we found them reasonably comfortable for third row seats, but they are more suited for children or for short distances. Both rear rows fold flat giving the Armada enormous cargo carrying capacity. The Nissan Armada can carry almost as much cargo as the Spanish fleet it was named after. The 4WD Titanium model I tested is priced at $45,940 and comes well equipped.
The Nissan Armada is a well designed full-size sport utility. Its powerful V8 and five-speed automatic work well together to produce responsive performance and smooth cruising. Its spacious interior provides the room and the creature comforts that should satisfy its owners. Armada provides heavy-duty towing capability and off-road it is capable of rugged terrain. In short, the Armada ranks at or near the top of its class, particularly for those who need a real workhorse.
Denis Flierl lives in Evergreen. He reviews automobiles.