The 2017 Nissan Armada is back. Nissan didn’t release a 2016 model in order to work on the full-size SUV’s redesign. The new 2017 Nissan Armada is more Nissan Patrol than Nissan TITAN now, which could be a very good decision for the future of this model.

The original Nissan Patrol was introduced in 1951 as Nissan’s answer to the popular Toyota Land Cruiser. Nissan decided to rework the Armada to create a crossover closer to its roots as a true sport utility vehicle.

You’ll find that for 2017, the Armada continues to feature the signature V-motion grille, now with standard LED head and tail lights. Its shape is large (about 30 mm longer than the previous version) and tall. This design benefits driver and passengers who get large windows for excellent visibility.

The 2017 Armada gets a new 5.6L Endurance V8 engine, borrowed from the new 2017 Titan, that makes 390 hp and 394 lb-ft of torque. It’s coupled with a new seven-speed transmission. According to Nissan, direct injection and finer tuning have improved the power and the fuel efficiency for 2018.

A fully-independent double wishbone suspension with twin-tube shocks and hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering makes the ride comfortable and cushy while driver handling of this large eight seater is light with quick feedback. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes assist in stopping quickly.

We get two nicely equipped versions for Canada – SL and Platinum. The Armada shines in the interior, where all passengers can enjoy a luxurious and upscale cabin. Soft leather-upholstered seating for up to eight with lumbar support and heating for the front row is standard. You can swap the second-row bench seat for captain’s chairs in the Platinum trim level. All seats, regardless of the row, recline, with the third row using power to recline and fold.

There is plenty of cabin storage space, cubbies and cupholders for all. Distinct stitching and gloss wood trim give the interior an upscale feel, while acoustic glass provides one of the quietest cabins in a full-size SUV.

Other standard offerings include GPS navigation, an around-view monitor with moving object detection, a Bose 13-speaker sound system, front and rear detectors with backup collision intervention and push button start.

Selecting the higher Platinum trim level adds a family entertainment system and some extra safety features like blind spot intervention and lane departure warning.

The redesigned 2017 Nissan Armada will compete better against luxury trim levels of the Yukon Denali, Chevy Tahoe or Ford Expedition. What sets it apart is the well-appointed interior (especially in the second row) and a best-in-class towing capacity of 3,856 kg.

If you’re looking for a luxurious truck for your large family with plenty of cargo space and the ability to tow all the fun toys on the weekends, Nissan has built something perfect for your needs. The latest 2017 Nissan Armada shipped to dealerships this month; visit us to have a look and a test drive!