It looks like we are about to see some pretty interesting changes for the 2021 Nissan Armada. Despite that the current generation has been introduced in 2016, it is actually a much older vehicle. As you probably know, the Armada is practically nothing more than a rebadged version of the iconic Nissan Patrol, which is sold overseas. The current model has been around for a full decade, which makes Armada practically the second-oldest model in the segment.
That’s the reason why many believe 2021 Nissan Armada is about to get changes. The bigger reason is that the Patrol has been updated last year and we can look at it as some kind of preview for next-year Armada. This update will bring a couple of interesting changes, though we might see some further upgrades for the North American market. In any case, the new version is expected to hit the market sometime in the second half of the year.
2021 Nissan Armada Design Changes
Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is the number of exterior changes. This particularly refers to the styling, which will suffer most. If you look at the new Patrol, it’s obvious that the 2021 Nissan Armada will get a completely new face and the changes will be pretty notable. First of all, count on the new iteration of the company’s famous V-Motion grille, while there are also new headlights to come, with a new shape and new LED lines. Finally, count on a new bumper, which will complete the picture of the new face.
The rest of the body won’t suffer that much. However, the rear end will also come with a couple of novelties, particularly in terms of new taillights and slightly different tailgate. Of course, count on tweaks on the rear bumper, exhaust system etc. Typically for mid-cycle updates, we should also see things like new color options, wheels etc.
Interior
Changes are expected on the inside too. If you look at the new Patrol, there is a new infotainment system with a dual-screen setup. That’s something you can already see in a couple of Infiniti models and it looks very nice. However, some reports suggest that the 2021 Nissan Armada won’t get the same, but rather more modern 9-inch touchscreen, which debuted in the new Titan. Among interesting novelties, it also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. On the other side, we definitely expect to see that digital instrument cluster from the new Patrol.
On the other side, the base cabin layout is about to remain the same. That means you may count on the same overall layout, which includes three comfortable rows of seats, as well as a pretty respectable cargo volume.
2021 Nissan Armada Engine
Things under the hood are expected to remain pretty much the same. The 2021 Nissan Armada is about to carry on with a well-known 5.6-liter V8, which is good for about 390 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque. Most likely, we will see a new, updated version of the engine, which brings a little bit more power. It is good for about 400 horses and 413 pound-feet of torque, which should slightly improve already pretty good driving dynamics.
On the other side, there is a chance to see a new 9-speed transmission instead of the current 7-speed gearbox. The new transmission already debuted in Titan pickup, and the impressions are pretty good. Still, don’t expect some significant improvements in terms of fuel economy. The 2021 Nissan Armada will remain one of the thirstiest models in the class, with average fuel consumption of 14 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.
2021 Nissan Armada Release Date and Price
Considering that expected update, the 2021 Nissan Armada could arrive a little bit earlier than usual. However, that will still remain within the second half of the year, most likely in the last quarter. When it comes to the price, we definitely don’t expect to see some significant increase compared to the current model, which starts at around 47.100 dollars. Key competitors are models like Toyota Sequoia, Chevy Tahoe, Ford Expedition etc.
Next Generation Has Been Confirmed
According to the latest reports, the Japanese manufacturer is definitely working on the next generation of this SUV. The new model won’t come in the next several years, but we already know that it will keep a body-on-frame platform and that the new model most likely won’t feature electrified powertrain. Also, it looks like another legend will be developed along with Patrol and Armada. Yes, we are talking about Mitsubishi Pajero, which will ride on the same platform and share most of its parts with new corporal siblings.
