2007 Nissan Armada

Flexing its Muscle

A full-size Nissan Armada SUV adds a few horsepower, along with flexible-fuel technology that enables it to run on either gasoline or E85 ethanol.

The full-size Nissan Armada SUV gets a dozen extra horsepower, to 317 hp, from tweaks to its V8 engine, including an improved air intake. The Armada shares platforms and powertrains with the Infiniti QX56. Both SUVs, in turn, are based on the Nissan Titan pickup truck.

Starting with the 2007 model year, the Armada also has flex-fuel capability, which means it can run on either straight gasoline or E85 ethanol, which is a blend of 85 percent alcohol and 15 percent gasoline. However, gas stations with E85 are extremely rare. For instance, according to the National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition, almost all of the fueling facilities in New York State that offer E85 belong to the New York State Thruway Authority and are not available to the public.

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The Nissan Armada is built on a fully boxed truck frame. It has a 5.6-liter V8 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. Both rear- and four-wheel-drive versions are offered. Maximum towing capacity is a hefty 9,100 pounds, which is second among SUVs only to the heavy-duty versions of the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL. The Armada’s automatic transmission includes a tow/haul mode that revises shift patterns to carry or pull heavy loads.

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The Armada is no slouch off-road, though its tank-like size and weight might prevent it from tackling narrow and twisting trails. This big truck’s advanced 4WD system is able to distribute power to all four wheels when conditions warrant, with a maximum 50/50 front-to-rear split. This is claimed to add off-road traction and improve on-road cornering. No surprise, the Armada’s fuel economy numbers are poor.

Nissan Armada Vehicle Summary

The Nissan Armada comes with speed-sensitive power steering, and it rides on a sophisticated four-wheel independent suspension. However, there’s no mistaking its bulk around sharp curves, or when navigating tight urban areas. Fortunately, its standard four-wheel disc antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist are able to stop the charging Armada quickly and efficiently.

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Available in base SE and upscale LE trim levels, the Armada offers a roomy and comfortable, ergonomically designed interior. The front passenger’s seat back folds flat to provide a large, flat surface for those who work out of their vehicles. Second- and third-row split-fold bench seats come standard for maximum passenger- and cargo-carrying flexibility. A seven-passenger configuration that comes with second-row captain’s chairs and a removable console is optional on the SE and standard on the LE.