The 2013 Armada stands tall with high bumpers and has decent, at best, approach, ramp-over, and departure angles for a stock vehicle, thanks to its all-wheel independent suspension. The interior is nice and gives the driver a feeling of being a pilot instead. The dashboard and center console layout is quite user-friendly and is not difficult to use, especially the navigation system. The fit and finish are good, with no squeaks and rattles. However, the audio system sounds like a boom-box at best, and we were far from impressed.

Drive Train and Numbers

The Armada comes with only one engine: a 5.6-liter V8 delivering 320 horsepower but boasts quite a bit of turning power available at low RPMs. The transmission is a five-speed automatic and comes with:

It also features a selectable traction control switch but has no rear or front locking differential.

In our on-road testing, we achieved:

0-100 km/h in just about 9 seconds
0-140 km/h in 14 seconds
Maximum speed of 180 km/h via electronic cutoff

We recorded an average fuel economy of:

4 km/L in the city (with unaggressive driving)
9 km/L on the highway at average speeds of 90 km/h
Overall average of 4.5-5 km/L combined

As in most off-road conditions, fuel consumption almost doubles but averages pretty well. The Armada was able to brake from 120-0 km/h in about 4 seconds.

Drive Characteristics

The V8 engine can’t really be heard much inside. It is responsive and reaches high RPMs quickly, urging you to rev it higher, but remains quiet at cruising speeds. Overall, the drive is pleasant but bouncy. The steering provides decent feedback, but one can feel the weight and size of the vehicle. The gear changes are fast but can be a little jerky during quick acceleration.

Drivers will continuously feel a slight pitching motion and soft rebounds from the suspension when going over bumps. It's nothing harsh, though. Once off the road, the suspension needs to be kept in mind for bouncing back, but again, it resembles a sea ship-like movement on big waves! Perhaps that’s why it’s named Armada.

Clearances are generally not a concern except for crossovers, thanks to the longest wheelbase in its class. The increased ground clearance due to an all-independent suspension improves off-road capability, allowing for easier extrication from large holes and better traction over sand dunes.

The traction control and stability control can be switched off completely via the provided switch. Additionally, the Armada has very low wind noise, and tire noise insulation is evident, making the interiors a quiet place to be.

Space & Comfort

Interior of 2013 Nissan Armada

The seats are comfortable, and the leather used is of decent quality. There’s plenty of room all around, including:

14 cup holders
Ample storage overhead and around the occupants

The front seats are quite broad and comfortable. The second-row seating is a significant strength of the Armada’s interior, offering limousine-like rear legroom even with the front seats pushed back. The third row can accommodate adults on short trips. However, the cargo area with the third row upright is just about okay and not as spacious compared to certain competitors.

The A/C is a tri-zone system along with the AV system; however, there isn’t an option for cooled seats in any trim, which are essential with the leather option. With pedal adjustments and seat and steering adjustments, anyone can find a comfortable driving position.

Unfortunately, the sound system is not impressive. The video from the front center display cannot be played on the rear dual headrest displays at any time, although they can play videos from each other. The audio from the rear players is only available via respective headsets.

Verdict

Starting at a base price of AED 165,000 for the SE, the Armada is not cheap. The LE trim starts at AED 179,500. Overall, it offers a very comfortable drive both on and off the road and is a strong contender in the full-size dune basher category.