Nissan entered the United States as “Datsun” back in 1958 and has been an active part of the American vehicle industry since. While Nissan got its start in Japan, the brand wanted to create something that specifically appealed to Americans. This was when they decided to come out with the Nissan Armada. Today, we’re going to talk to you about the 2021 Nissan Armada, but first, we want to show you how this model has progressed throughout the years.
The Original Nissan Armada
The Nissan Armada technically debuted in 2003 as a 2004 model, but it came out under the name “Nissan Pathfinder Armada.” The brand decided to drop the “Pathfinder” aspect and just stick with “Armada” from 2005 onward. The first-generation Armada came in two different trim options, it had a standard V8 engine, and it could tow up to 9,100 pounds. Much like the 2021 Nissan Armada, the original model was also built on a Nissan Titan truck frame, giving it the full SUV strength and appeal. As time went on, the Nissan Armada changed its style and transitioned with the times, gaining an upgraded exterior, Bluetooth connectivity, and an even more powerful engine. The Armada was great before, but now, it’s the perfect balance of strength, aesthetics, and technology.
The 2021 Nissan Armada’s Performance Perks
A four-wheel drive SUV with a V8 engine is ideal if you’re heading off-road or harsh winter weather is common in your area. The good news is that the 2021 Nissan Armada can tackle adverse road conditions with ease. It packs 400 horses with 413 pound-feet of torque, and its 7-speed automatic transmission allows for optional manual shifting, really making it an off-roading prowler.
Not only is this model great off the pavement, but it also packs towing power. You can haul up to 8,500 pounds with this SUV model, which is 3,500 more pounds than the gas-powered 2021 Jeep Wrangler’s towing capacity. The main perk to the 2021 Nissan Armada’s performance is that you get off-roading capabilities and towing perks all in one. You don’t have to sacrifice one for the other with this model.
Let’s take a quick look at its off-roading bonuses. First off, you’ll get selectable driving modes with this model. This even includes Snow Mode, which adjusts the Armada to handle slick roads with ease. Further, this model includes active brake limited slip, which puts the brake on any wheel that’s sliding and transfers its power to the other three wheels. Overall, between these features, its high ground clearance, and the fact that it includes Hill Start Assist, the Armada is a great off-roading option.
This model also comes with convenience and security features that make towing much easier and safer. The trailer sway control feature acts as an extra eye for your trailer. Automatic braking kicks in when sway control deems it necessary, helping to prevent fishtailing and other unwanted trailer motions. Moreover, the trailer brake control feature allows you to control the trailer brakes separately. This feature works via a knob located on the 2021 Nissan Armada’s dash. When you need to brake your trailer but not your SUV, this feature has you covered.
Finally, the ride isn’t nearly as bumpy as you’d expect it to be. While many off-road models like the Wrangler and larger trucks have suspension that makes them feel like a rough roller coaster ride, the 2021 Armada offers a smoother suspension setup. This auto-leveling suspension comes with just the right amount of give while still helping you maintain a smooth, balanced ride.
Technological Perks
It’s hard to imagine a vehicle that balances off-roading, towing, casual commuting, and family-friendliness all in one package. However, the 2021 Nissan Armada shows us that while it’s rare, it’s definitely possible.
The Armada’s tri-zone entertainment system ensures that every passenger is happy. As the driver or front passenger, you can listen to something different than your second-row friends. While you’re listening to your new favorite podcast in the front, the backseat passengers can play video games, watch movies, or even listen to their own podcast and music. In addition to the entertainment system, the Armada also includes a Wi-Fi hotspot that can handle multiple devices, a 120-volt power outlet which is handy for chargers, along with USB and USB-C ports for charging smaller items.
Speaking of music, to add to the tri-zone entertainment system’s impressive features, the 2021 Nissan Armada’s sound system pitches in to heighten your entertainment experience by providing high-quality sound. This model includes an impressive 13-speaker Bose audio system alongside Bose AudioPilot, which is for cabin noise cancellation. You and your family can also use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on this model, making your Bluetooth streaming experience easier than ever.
Navigation is also top-notch on this model. Nissan’s Door-to-Door Navigation provides you with realistic and interactive maps, making it difficult to get lost. Plus, by using your app, you can keep up with your Armada and receive walking directions in case you get misdirected, or you forget where you parked.
Finally, Nissan Connect availability connects you to professionals who can help you with both safety and convenience. You can send directions from your phone straight to your Armada, you’ll have access to professional advice via Nissan Concierge, and you can monitor your 2021 Nissan Armada when your kids or your partner is driving it. Worried about how fast they’re going? Nissan Connect has you covered. You can better protect your Armada and its precious cargo via this feature, even when you’re not there to monitor everything in person. The 2021 Nissan Armada is packed with family-friendly tech features that make it easier to feel prepared on the road.
How About Safety?
As helpful as tech features are, overall safety is one of the biggest concerns drivers have when purchasing a new model. The good news is that the 2021 Nissan Armada not only has you covered in this department, but you also won’t have to pay extra to get these safety assets. Even on the lowest trim, you’ll get standard Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and High Beam Assist.
Plus, higher trims include options for Intelligent driver assist features. These include Intelligent Cruise Control, Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention, Intelligent Lane Intervention, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Around View Monitor, and Intelligent Back-Up Intervention. With all this intellect present, it’s safe to say that the 2021 Nissan Armada graduated vehicle academy with honors. For those who might need a little extra help catching all the signs on the road, you can also get Traffic Sign Recognition with the Armada. This technology monitors speed limits and other related traffic signs to remind you of the current road rules.
Plus, we know that safety isn’t always about driver assist features, which is why we want you to know about the 2021 Armada’s zone-body construction. Nissan creates what are called “crumple zones” on this model to help protect those inside the cabin. These areas absorb more impact, taking the pressure away from passengers, further protecting them during an accident. Between its extra eyes, auditory alerts, cameras, and careful body design, the 2021 Nissan Armada helps keep you safe and secure both on and off the pavement.
Why the 2021 Nissan Armada Is the Off-Roader for You
There are tons of off-roading SUVs out there, but since they’re designed with trail climbing in mind, these models aren’t always the most practical. The 2021 Nissan Armada is different. It can balance all categories. The Armada can tackle mud or snow, it is entertaining when used for travel, it can tow boats, ATVs, and pretty much anything you’ll ever need to carry, and it has more standard safety technology than most other off-roading models. If you already own an Armada, here’s your chance to brag, and if you don’t but would like one, this is the sign that you’re on the right track.
