2025 Nissan Armada Gets More Power and Tech
2025 Nissan Armada. Nissan’s biggest SUV now offers 425 hp, more tech, and a refined ride, but is it enough to challenge Tahoe and Expedition?
Nissan’s full-size SUV is ditching the V8 for more power, better mileage, and a sharper edge. But can it truly rival Detroit’s giants?
Alright, let’s talk about the 2025 Nissan Armada. If you need three rows, serious towing power, and the ego-boosting presence of an upscale apartment block, this thing’s ready for your driveway. It’s Nissan’s answer to the Tahoe, Expedition, and Yukon but this year, the Armada trades its thirsty V8 for something leaner, meaner, and possibly even smarter: a twin-turbo V6.
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Why does this car matter right now?
The full-size SUV market is still flexing its muscles. Americans are buying big again, and Nissan isn’t about to be left in the dust. The 2025 Armada is a strategic pivot: better fuel economy, higher horsepower, and a full interior tech reboot. It shows Nissan’s commitment to keeping traditional SUVs alive in a world steadily drifting toward crossovers and electrification.
The big story is under the hood. Out goes the 5.6-liter V8, in comes a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 delivering 425 horsepower and a monstrous 516 lb-ft of torque more than its predecessor and even edging out some rivals. That’s paired with a 9-speed automatic, a more composed chassis, and optional adaptive suspension that can actually smooth out the ride in this behemoth.
Pricing starts around $58,500 for the base SL and stretches north of $75,000 for the fully-loaded Platinum Reserve. Standard features now include a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless charging, and Nissan Safety Shield 360 with lane keeping, blind-spot warning, and automatic emergency braking.
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How does it compare to rivals?
The 2025 Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon still dominate sales, offering multiple engine options and high trims like the Denali that ooze curb appeal. Ford’s Expedition counters with a powerful twin-turbo V6 and hands-free BlueCruise on some trims. Toyota’s Sequoia is hybrid-only now, touting efficiency and resale value. Jeep’s Wagoneer appeals to those who want prestige but prefer not to say “luxury brand” aloud.
Against that crowd, the Armada lands somewhere in the middle. More power than the Sequoia. Quieter and comfier than the Wagoneer. More affordable than a top-trim Tahoe. But it lacks the massive screen drama or electrification pizzazz. Call it a rugged underdog with just enough swagger to hold its ground.
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Who is this for, and who should skip it?
This is for buyers who want traditional SUV bones without the usual suspects on the badge. If you tow boats or trailers, haul a gaggle of kids, or just want to look down on traffic literally this fits the brief. The Armada tows up to 8,500 pounds and feels confident doing it.
Skip it if you’re chasing fuel savings or gadgetry. EPA estimates put the Armada at 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway not disastrous, but certainly no hybrid hero. And while Nissan has upped its tech game, you won’t find dash-to-door OLED displays or built-in voice assistants barking back with sarcasm. Yet.
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What’s the long-term significance?
By revamping the Armada instead of retiring it, Nissan is signaling there’s still a market for big, body-on-frame SUVs with brute force and traditional capability. This update also keeps the Patrol its global sibling relevant in the U.S., preserving a link to one of the world’s most respected off-road nameplates.
And with electrification creeping into every corner of the market, the 2025 Armada might be one of the last of its kind: a powerful, gas-powered SUV designed to work hard, play harder, and not apologize for taking up two parking spaces at Costco.
Like what you’ve read? Stay in the driver’s seat with more insider automotive insights. Follow @NikJMiles and @TestMiles for stories that go beyond the press release.
