2006 Nissan Armada: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A more-versatile 3rd-row seat highlights this large SUV for 2006. Armada is based on Nissan's Titan pickup truck. It offers SE and LE versions in 2- and 4-wheel drive, and a 4WD SE Off-Road model. The 4WD system can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. The sole powertrain is a 305-hp V8 and 5-speed automatic transmission. ABS and antiskid system are standard. A load-leveling suspension is optional on SE, standard elsewhere. SE Off-Road has a special suspension and gains a standard towing package for '06. A power liftgate is standard on LEs, available for SEs; all include opening glass. Curtain side airbags covering all three seating rows are standard. Front side airbags and leather upholstery are available for SE, standard otherwise. LE seats seven and has 2nd-row bucket seats with a removable center console. Optional on LE and standard on the others is a 2nd-row bench for eight-passenger capacity. For '06, a 60/40 split folding 3rd-row bench seat replaces a one-piece type. All rear seats fold into a level load deck. Exclusive to LEs is an optional navigation system with rearview camera. Nissan's upscale Infiniti brand sells a retrimmed Armada as the QX56.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large SUVs are traditionally workhorse 7-plus passenger wagons with brawny chassis, ample towing ability, lots of cargo space, and generally abysmal fuel economy. These vehicles offer towing and payload ratings similar to large pickup trucks.

Our Best Buys include Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, and Ford Expedition. Our Recommended picks are GMC Yukon, GMC Denali, and the Toyota Sequoia.