2009 Nissan Armada: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Nissan Armada is largely unchanged. Armada borrows its basic design from Nissan's Titan pickup truck. It offers SE and LE versions in rear- and 4-wheel drive. The 4WD system can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes a low-range gear for off-roading. The sole engine is a 317-hp 5.6-liter V8 that can be equipped to run on gasoline or E85 ethanol-blended fuel. It teams with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 9100 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags that cover all seating rows, and front side airbags. A load-leveling suspension is standard on LE, optional on SE. A power liftgate is standard on LEs, available for SEs; both include opening glass. Leather upholstery is available for SE, standard on LE. A 2nd-row bench for eight-passenger capacity is standard. Seven-passenger seating with captain's chairs for the 2nd-row and a removable center console is offered on LE. The 3rd-row bench has a 60/40 split and folds into the cargo floor. An LE-exclusive option package includes a navigation system, hard drive for storing digital music files, heated steering wheel, and a power-folding 3rd-row seat. Nissan's upscale Infiniti brand sells a retrimmed Armada as the QX56.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large SUVs are traditionally workhorse seven-plus passenger wagons with brawny truck-type chassis, ample towing ability, lots of cargo space, and generally poor fuel economy. These vehicles offer towing and payload ratings similar to large pickup trucks.

Our Best Buys include the Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Ford Expedition. We have no Recommended picks in this class for 2009.