In the States, the full-size Nissan SUV that has been available since Nissan has offered a full-size SUV is the Armada. The current Armada rides on the exact same platform as the Nissan Titan truck. Outside the US, Nissan has offered another SUV called the Patrol for a long while. That Patrol is essentially the same car as the Infiniti QX80.
The Evolution of the Nissan Armada
The Nissan Armada has been a staple in the full-size SUV market in the United States since its introduction. Built on the robust platform of the Nissan Titan truck, the Armada has been known for its durability and ruggedness. However, this truck-based platform has also meant that the Armada’s ride quality and interior appointments have sometimes lagged behind more luxurious competitors.
Outside the U.S., Nissan’s Patrol has been a significant player in the SUV market for decades. The Patrol is renowned for its off-road capabilities and has a strong following in regions like the Middle East and Australia. Interestingly, the Patrol shares its underpinnings with the Infiniti QX80, a luxury SUV that offers a more refined driving experience compared to the Titan-based Armada.
Rumors and Speculations
A new rumor making the rounds claims that the next Armada will be a rebadged Patrol. The claims come from someone on a forum who says a friend at an ad agency sent over the image you see here. That is supposed to be the 2017 Armada.
This might be good news, the Infiniti QX80 isn’t based on the Titan; it’s on its own platform. That would mean a better ride and more luxurious appointments. The only power plant is tipped to be the Nissan 5.6L V8 making about 400hp. Fuel economy won’t be great at somewhere in the 14mpg range in the city. Pricing for the 2017 Armada is pegged at $39,000 for starters. I was rather hoping the next Armada would have the 5.0L Cummins as an option.
The potential shift to the Patrol platform could bring several benefits to the Armada. For one, the Patrol’s platform is designed with a focus on both on-road comfort and off-road prowess. This dual capability could make the Armada more versatile, appealing to a broader range of customers. Additionally, the Patrol’s platform allows for more advanced suspension systems, which could significantly improve ride quality.
Moreover, the interior of the Patrol-based Armada is likely to see an upgrade. The Infiniti QX80, which shares the Patrol’s platform, is known for its luxurious interior, featuring high-quality materials and advanced technology. If the Armada inherits these traits, it could become a more competitive option in the full-size SUV market, attracting buyers who prioritize comfort and luxury.
However, there are also some potential downsides to consider. The 5.6L V8 engine, while powerful, is not known for its fuel efficiency. With fuel economy estimated at around 14mpg in the city, the Armada could be less appealing to buyers concerned about running costs. Additionally, the starting price of $39,000, while competitive, could rise significantly with the addition of luxury features and options.
The rumored shift to a Patrol-based Armada could represent a significant evolution for Nissan’s full-size SUV. By adopting a more refined platform, the Armada could offer a better balance of comfort, luxury, and capability. However, potential buyers will need to weigh these benefits against considerations like fuel economy and pricing.
via Autoevolution
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