The Nissan Armada III (Y63) PRO-4X 3.5 V6 represents the latest iteration of Nissan’s full-size SUV, launched in September 2024. Positioned as the top-tier, off-road focused trim of the Y63 generation, the PRO-4X distinguishes itself with enhanced capability and a more rugged aesthetic. The Y63 Armada represents a significant update over its predecessor, sharing a platform with the Nissan Patrol, but tailored for the North American market. This variant specifically caters to buyers seeking a powerful, capable SUV with premium features and a focus on off-road performance. It slots above the base SV and SL trims, offering a more specialized experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Armada |
| Generation | Armada III (Y63) |
| Type (Engine) | PRO-4X 3.5 V6 (425 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | LEV4-ULEV50 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp, 154.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 254.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 425 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 121.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 3600 rpm, 516.29 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VR35DDTT |
| Engine displacement | 3492 cm3, 213.09 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm, 3.39 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 100.2 mm, 3.94 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVTCS |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l, 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2746 kg, 6053.89 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 3542 kg, 7808.77 lbs. |
| Max load | 796 kg, 1754.88 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 578 l, 20.41 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2750 l, 97.12 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 89 l, 23.51 US gal | 19.58 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3856 kg, 8501.02 lbs. |
| Permitted towbar download | 386 kg, 850.98 lbs. |
| Length | 5324 mm, 209.61 in. |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2116 mm, 83.31 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2350 mm, 92.52 in. |
| Height | 1946-1981 mm, 76.61 – 77.99 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3076 mm, 121.1 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 244 mm, 9.61 in. |
| Approach angle | 33° |
| Departure angle | 24.5° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 25.5° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 275/60 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Armada PRO-4X lies Nissan’s VR35DDTT 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated V6, boosted by twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection. The VR35DDTT produces 425 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque at 3600 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) for optimized performance and efficiency. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The engine is paired with a sophisticated 9-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth and responsive shifting. This transmission is crucial for managing the engine’s power and torque effectively, especially when tackling off-road terrain or towing.
Driving Characteristics
The Armada PRO-4X delivers a robust driving experience. The combination of the powerful V6 engine and the 9-speed automatic transmission provides ample acceleration and effortless cruising. While not as nimble as smaller SUVs, the Armada’s air suspension contributes to a comfortable ride, both on and off-road. The 9-speed transmission is tuned for both fuel efficiency and responsiveness, with gear ratios optimized for towing and off-road crawling. Compared to the standard Armada trims, the PRO-4X benefits from enhanced off-road tuning, including a more robust four-wheel-drive system and increased ground clearance. The PRO-4X feels noticeably more capable in challenging terrain than its siblings.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The PRO-4X trim comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features. Interior appointments include leather-appointed seats with unique PRO-4X stitching, a premium audio system, and a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation. Standard safety features include Nissan Safety Shield 360, which encompasses a suite of driver-assistance technologies such as automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Optional extras include a rear-seat entertainment system and a panoramic sunroof. The interior design emphasizes durability and functionality, reflecting the PRO-4X’s off-road focus.
Chassis & Braking
The Armada PRO-4X utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The suspension system features double wishbones at both the front and rear, coupled with an air suspension system that allows for adjustable ride height and improved off-road capability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger front rotors (350x30mm) and rear rotors (350x20mm) compared to lower trims. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2024 Nissan Armada PRO-4X has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praise its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and impressive off-road capabilities. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Sequoia and Chevrolet Tahoe, the Armada PRO-4X offers a compelling combination of features and value. While fuel economy is not a strong point (typical for a full-size SUV), the Armada’s LEV4-ULEV50 emissions standards demonstrate Nissan’s efforts to minimize its environmental impact. Reliability is expected to be good, based on Nissan’s track record and the robust design of the powertrain.
Legacy
The Y63 Armada PRO-4X represents a significant step forward for Nissan’s full-size SUV. The VR35DDTT engine and 9-speed automatic transmission are expected to provide long-term reliability, while the enhanced off-road capabilities of the PRO-4X trim cater to a growing segment of buyers. In the used car market, the Y63 Armada is anticipated to hold its value well, particularly the PRO-4X variant, due to its desirable features and capabilities. The combination of power, comfort, and off-road prowess positions the Armada PRO-4X as a strong contender in the full-size SUV segment.
