The Nissan Armada II, specifically the facelifted version introduced in January 2021 and continuing through the 2024 model year, represents Nissan’s full-size SUV offering primarily targeted at the North American market. Built on the Y62 platform, this generation Armada aimed to provide a blend of robust capability, spaciousness, and relative luxury within the competitive large SUV segment. The 5.6-liter V8 engine paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission is a cornerstone of this iteration, delivering substantial power and towing capacity. This particular configuration served as the sole powertrain option for the US market during these years, emphasizing Nissan’s commitment to a powerful, traditional SUV experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Armada |
| Generation | Armada II (Y62, facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.6 V8 (400 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | January, 2021 |
| End of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | LEV2-ULEV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 155.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 217.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 400 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72 Hp/l |
| Torque | 560 Nm @ 4000 rpm (413.03 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VK56VD |
| Engine displacement | 5552 cm3 (338.8 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC-VVEL |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 15.1 l (15.96 US qt | 13.29 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2570-2627 kg (5665.88 – 5791.54 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3311 kg (7299.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 684-741 kg (1507.96 – 1633.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 467 l (16.49 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2701 l (95.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3856 kg (8501.02 lbs.) |
| Length | 5306 mm (208.9 in.) |
| Width | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Height | 1925 mm (75.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3076 mm (121.1 in.) |
| Front track | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 231-234 mm (9.09 – 9.21 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.37 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.6 m (41.34 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 20.8-21.0° |
| Departure angle | 22.2-22.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20.5-20.7° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350.52×30.48 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 350.52×20.32 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R18; 275/60 R20; 275/50 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 20; 22 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2021-2024 Nissan Armada is the VK56VD 5.6-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine is a member of Nissan’s VK engine family, known for its durability and smooth power delivery. The VK56VD features direct fuel injection, a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) technology, and a relatively high 11.2:1 compression ratio. These features contribute to both power output and efficiency. The engine produces 400 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 413 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. This power is channeled through a 7-speed automatic transmission, which was chosen for its balance of responsiveness and fuel economy. The transmission is electronically controlled and features adaptive shift logic, adjusting shift points based on driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The Armada 5.6L V8 Automatic delivers a confident and capable driving experience. While not designed for outright sportiness, the engine provides ample power for accelerating and merging onto highways. The 7-speed automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, although some reviewers noted a slight hesitation in certain situations. The Armada’s substantial weight (around 5700 lbs) is noticeable, but the V8 provides enough torque to overcome this. Compared to hypothetical lower-powered or smaller displacement engine options, this configuration prioritizes effortless cruising and towing capacity. The gear ratios are tuned for maximizing torque at lower speeds, making it well-suited for hauling trailers or navigating challenging terrain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2021-2024 Armada offered a range of trim levels, all featuring the 5.6L V8 and 7-speed automatic. Standard equipment typically included tri-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Nissan Safety Shield 360 (a suite of driver-assistance features), and leather upholstery. Higher trim levels added features such as a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, a premium Bose audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, power-folding rear seats, and advanced driver-assistance technologies like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
Chassis & Braking
The Armada utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. It features a fully independent double-wishbone suspension at both the front and rear, designed to deliver a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution are standard features. The Armada’s steering is rack-and-pinion with electric power assist, offering a responsive and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2021-2024 Nissan Armada received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful V8 engine. However, its fuel economy was often cited as a drawback, typical for a vehicle of its size and capability. Compared to competitors like the Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Ford Expedition, the Armada offered a competitive value proposition, often undercutting its rivals in price while providing similar levels of features and performance. The Armada’s focus on a single, powerful powertrain simplified the buying process but limited options for those seeking greater fuel efficiency or a more affordable entry point.
Legacy
The VK56VD engine has a reputation for being a reliable and durable powerplant, and the 7-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be generally dependable. In the used car market, the 2021-2024 Armada holds its value reasonably well, particularly well-maintained examples with lower mileage. While fuel costs remain a consideration, the Armada’s combination of space, power, and capability continues to appeal to buyers seeking a traditional full-size SUV. The Armada’s longevity and robust construction suggest that these vehicles will remain on the road for many years to come.
