by The 2025 Armada is the SUV we tested in the snowy northern regions. Our conclusion was clear: it’s a luxurious body-on-frame vehicle that shows significant progress for Nissan. However, there is one caveat – we tested the top-tier Platinum Reserve trim.
This raised a question: how would the more basic Pro-4X version, designed for extreme conditions, feel? Would it handle mud, sand, rocks, and water obstacles? To find out, we took this model for a test drive.
Key Specifications
| › Model: | 2025 Nissan Armada Pro-4X |
| › Price: | $75,750 including destination fee |
| › Dimensions: | Length: 208.9 in (5,307 mm) Width: 79.9 in (2,029 mm) Height: 75.8 in (1,925 mm) Wheelbase: 121.1 in (3,076 mm) Ground Clearance: 9.2 in (234 mm) |
| › Engine: | 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 |
| › Power: | 425 hp (316 kW) and 516 lb-ft (698 Nm) of torque |
| › Transmission: | Nine-speed automatic |
| › Availability: | On sale now |
We already knew the Armada was comfortable and powerful, but was it truly adventure-ready as the manufacturer claims? To test this, we headed to the Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas – the largest national forest in the southern U.S. at 1.8 million acres.
Although we covered only 20 miles, it was enough for an assessment. Unlike many crossovers that only imitate off-roaders, the Armada Pro-4X lives up to expectations. It may not be the perfect choice for extreme conditions, but it handles off-roading excellently.
On-Road Behavior
The Armada’s main drawback is its on-road behavior. Like the Infiniti QX80, it feels bulky and heavy. Taking corners requires attention to wheel placement and spatial awareness. The off-road tires only amplify this effect.
However, the 425-horsepower engine is perfectly sufficient for daily use. It sounds louder than in the Infiniti and easily reaches the necessary speed. The nine-speed transmission works flawlessly on any surface, always selecting the right gear. Passengers note the comfort on the highway. But the main thing is its off-road capabilities.
A True Off-Roader?
The first miles of the route consisted of wide dirt roads and a stream crossing. The Armada felt good, though sometimes it seemed too large. It’s important to consider that forest roads aren’t designed for large vehicles.
Fortunately, we were the only ones on this trail, and the water level in the stream was low. The locking rear differential helped overcome a section with soft ground. Then we encountered a steep, rocky climb where the vehicle initially slipped but soon found traction and slowly climbed up.
The cameras were indispensable on the narrow road with washed-out edges. The Armada conquered the climb without problems, only occasionally searching for traction. A magnificent panorama awaited us at the top.
The descent was even easier thanks to the hill descent control mode. This function allows you to focus on steering while the vehicle maintains a safe speed. After that, we easily overcame mud, sand, and water.
Off-Road Comfort
The Armada impresses with its comfort. Compared to other vehicles we’ve traveled these same routes in, it offers more space and cabin quietness.
From the driver’s perspective, there’s almost nothing to complain about. Although additional features like a front differential lock would be useful, even without them the Armada performed excellently. The camera system, off-road modes, and navigation were very helpful.
Comparison and Conclusions
Every trip on these routes is unique due to variable weather conditions. When comparing different off-roaders, it’s important to consider both passenger enjoyment and driver stress levels. The Armada is one of the best options for such conditions.
A Land Cruiser or Tacoma might be more capable in extreme conditions, but the Armada offers better comfort. If choosing between it and a Defender, the latter behaves better on-road without conceding in technology.
The market is full of crossovers that only imitate off-road capability. Unlike them, the Armada Pro-4X is a true off-roader. It could be even better, but it’s already worth attention.
Journey Gallery
