It’s Not April 1st, Nissan Really is Building an Armada NISMO

This will be the first-ever NISMO version of the Armada, although the Patrol, which is an Armada in other markets, has had a NISMO before. So, this isn’t a completely unheard-of idea after all.

Under the hood remains the same twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, but with an additional 35 horsepower, bringing the total to 460 hp. The torque number has not changed and unlike other Armadas that only recommend premium fuel, the NISMO requires premium. Now, we could be that guy and point out the revised engine programming is really just what the engine would make when tuned for Premium, but the Infiniti QX80 has the same turbo V6 that requires premium fuel and makes 450 hp, so there is a slight 10 hp increase here.

More importantly, at least for adolescents in an adult’s body like this writer, the engine is louder thanks to a retuned exhaust system. There’s also active sound enhancement that pumps more of a menacing engine note through the cabin’s speakers. We’re fans of the current Armada’s engine note, even if it no longer is a V8, so we have high hopes here.

The NISMO-fication of the Armada’s mechanics isn’t exclusive to the engine. The electric power steering is reworked for a sportier feel, and the adaptive air suspension found on the Platinum trim has been tuned by NISMO to keep the SUV more controlled when cornering. Since the current model is a bit roly-poly, we’re interested to test these changes for ourselves in the 6,102-pound NISMO.

There’re NISMO-specific wheels that measure 22-inches in diameter like the Platinum trim level with 275/50R22 tires wrapped around them. But the NISMO tires are different, as they're high-performance all-season rubber. Behind the wheels, the brakes remain unchanged.

Just because it’s sporty, doesn’t mean the NISMO Armada is no longer a big SUV workhorse. It comes standard with the integrated trailer brake controller and still offers between 8.9-10.9 inches of ground clearance. That isn’t as much as other air-suspension equipped Armadas, offering 9.5-11.6 inches, but it’s still better than a lot of smaller SUVs.

Nissan hasn’t held back on the exterior, with the front and rear fascia, as well as grille, side steps, and rear spoiler all changed for a sportier look. Overall, it makes the NISMO a bit longer than other Armada trims, but retains the same width and height. There are also wider fender flares along with LED front fog lights and red-painted brake calipers.

Not all these changes are purely aesthetic though, Nissan claims they also improve the Armada’s aerodynamic performance, which isn’t saying much since it’s a jumbo brick on wheels.

Plenty of color choices will be available, including exclusive offerings like NISMO Stealth Gray, NISMO Stealth Gray with Super Black roof, and Black Diamond Pearl. Those looking for brighter models can also opt for the Everest White Pearl Tricoat and Everest White Pearl Tricoat with Super Black roof.

If you thought the exterior stood out, look inside. There are NISMO-specific quilted leather seats and trim, finished in charcoal with bright red inserts, accents and stitching. The inserts in the seat are suede, specific to this model. The front seats are the top-of-the-line 12-way power buckets with massage.

Other changes inside the sporty Armada includes adjustable side bolsters for the front seats, aluminum pedals, and multicolor ambient lighting. The moonroof is standard as is the hands-free liftgate. According to Nissan’s spec chart, the NISMO will only come in 7-passenger configuration with second row captain’s chairs. On a safety front, ProPILOT Assist 1.1 is standard, with 2.1 optional.