2013 Nissan Armada Review: Performance and Comfort Insights

2013 Nissan Armada Review

The 2013 Nissan Armada retains the same design as the previous model year, but we put it through a different test. How did it perform? Let’s find out!

Exterior Design

The 2013 Armada is a large SUV with high bumpers and good departure angles, thanks to its four-wheel suspension system. The interior is stylish, giving the driver a cockpit-like feel. The dashboard and center console are well-designed and user-friendly, especially the navigation system. The overall design and finishing are commendable, with minimal noise intrusion. However, we were not particularly impressed with the sound system.

Performance and Specifications

Engine Overview

The vehicle is powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine that produces 320 horsepower, providing good torque at low RPMs. The transmission features five automatic speeds and includes the following modes:

• 2H
• 4A
• 4H
• 4L

It has traction control but lacks front or rear locking differentials.

Test Performance

During our tests, we achieved a 0-100 km/h time of 9 seconds and reached 140 km/h in 14 seconds, which is average for an SUV. The top speed was 180 km/h due to an electronic cutoff. We recorded fuel consumption rates of 4 km/l in the city (under aggressive driving) and approximately 9 km/l on the highway at an average speed of 90 km/h.

Performance Specifications

Inside the cabin, the V8 engine is not overly audible. It responds well and reaches high notes, encouraging you to accelerate faster, yet remains quiet at higher speeds. Overall, the driving experience is pleasant but bouncy. The steering is responsive, although you will feel the vehicle's weight and size. The gear shifts are quick but can be a bit jerky under heavy acceleration.

Space and Comfort

The seats are comfortable and the leather upholstery is of good quality. There is ample space with 14 cup holders and numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin.

The front seats are wide and comfortable. The second-row seats feel like limousine seating due to the generous legroom. The third-row seats are comfortable but not ideal for long journeys. The cargo space, when the seats are up, is adequate but not the largest in its class.

There is an air conditioning system and an entertainment unit; however, seat cooling features are absent, which has become a standard for leather seats. Anyone can adjust the seats to ensure a comfortable driving position.

The sound system is far from impressive. Passengers in the back cannot play videos on their screens from the front display. However, they can listen to the same video through headphones.

Conclusion

With a starting price of AED 165,000 for the SE model, the Armada is not cheap. The LE model starts at AED 179,000. Overall, the driving experience is comfortable, making it a strong competitor in the large SUV segment.