2021 Nissan Armada review

What We Like

Driving: The V8 engine in the 2021 Armada offers up plenty of power, making it one of the quickest full-size SUVs among its competitors, with ample passing power on the highway. The suspension also balances comfort and control, providing a comfortable ride that soaks up small and medium-sized bumps. The brakes are also strong and responsive, which is extra important in a big, heavy vehicle like this.

Towing: If you tow a heavy trailer, camper, or a medium-sized boat, the Armada is a good choice. The powerful engine makes short work of heavy loads, and the 8,500-pound maximum capacity can handle anything you’d realistically haul with a vehicle like this.

Standard driver aids: Of all the updates made to the 2021 Armada, we’re most pleased to see that its suite of advanced driver-assist systems are now standard. That means all models come with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and more, adding a little extra peace of mind and convenience when you’re driving.

What Needs Improvement

Interior space: The Armada could use better space management. The front seats are plenty roomy, and the second row is fine, as long as you don’t mind that the captain's chairs are fixed in place and don’t adjust forward or rearward. The third-row seat cushion is very low to the floor so there isn't much legroom and it’s best suited to small children. Cargo space is also less usable than it could be due to the Armada’s height. If passenger space and an easily accessible cargo area are priorities, you might be served better by the Armada’s rivals.