Japanese tuning studio Kuhl Racing prepares two radically different packages for the Nissan Armada
Japanese buyers will not receive the new generation Nissan Patrol (Y63) until next spring, but tuning studio Kuhl Racing decided not to wait and imported its North American twin — the Armada. The company is developing two modification programs for this full-size SUV, which are complete opposites of each other. Both will be presented at the Tokyo Auto Show in early 2027.
Before starting physical production, Kuhl published a series of renderings along with a detailed description of the planned changes.
Off-road package Iron Build
The Kuhl Iron Build package emphasizes the rougher features of the Armada, significantly surpassing the factory Pro-4X version. Externally, the SUV receives high-clearance bumpers, wide wheel arch extensions, and a roof spoiler — such equipment looks like a claim for serious off-roading, not just decor.
The angular shapes of the body kit resemble steel armor, but in reality, it is made of reinforced plastic (FRP). According to Kuhl, this durable composite material helps avoid the extra weight, high cost, and design limitations inherent to steel.
The off-road package also includes new 37-inch mud tires on 22-inch alloy wheels Verz-Wheels DDR03. They are paired with a reinforced suspension that raises the vehicle 2 inches (51 mm) higher than standard, although the final result will be less extreme than in the renderings.
Lowered variant Urban Style
The second program, the Urban Style package, is designed for Patrol and Armada owners who never plan to go off-road. Its body kit includes redesigned bumper air intakes, an aggressive multi-section splitter, side skirts, aerodynamic fender wings, a rear spoiler, and a diffuser that hides an optional exhaust system with four tips.
The most noticeable change is the adjustable suspension, which lowers the SUV’s ground clearance to the level of a GT-R sports car. In this case, black alloy wheels are fitted with sport tires. As an alternative, the tuner offers seven-spoke 22-inch forged wheels VRF01L with a more moderate lowering and significantly more restrained style changes.
More power for both versions
Regardless of the chosen style and suspension type, the company is also working on improving performance. The 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine produces 425 hp (317 kW) in standard form and up to 460 hp (343 kW) in the Patrol Nismo version. Thanks to an ECU reflash, power will be increased to over 493 hp (368 kW), surpassing any factory version. Additionally, the SUV will receive improved brakes with 8- or 12-piston calipers.
Both Armada/Patrol versions — “Iron Build” and “Urban Style” — will be presented at the next Tokyo Auto Show in January 2027. However, these modifications are not concept projects, as they are intended for series production. After the debut, Kuhl plans to sell them both as complete vehicles and as individual parts through its dealer network.
Interestingly, Kuhl Racing demonstrates the flexibility of modern tuning by offering two completely different paths for the same model. This indicates that even in the large SUV segment, the demand for customization remains high. The choice between extreme off-roading and aggressive urban style allows satisfying the needs of both adventure enthusiasts and those who value exceptional appearance and dynamics on asphalt. Furthermore, the decision to use lightweight composite material instead of steel for the off-road body kit is a thoughtful step that avoids a significant increase in mass, which could negate the benefits of a more powerful engine.