2012 Nissan Armada: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Nissan Armada is largely a carryover, with no major redesign or mechanical update. The main change is more standard comfort equipment on SL and Platinum models.
About the 2012 Nissan Armada
1st generation (2004-2015), late-cycle year in the original Titan-based Armada.
Nissan positions the Armada as its big, traditional full-size SUV for families with big towing and hauling plans. The selling points are strong V8 power, three-row seating, fold-flat rear seats, and truck-based capability that makes it more useful for trailers and heavy-duty family trips than a car-based crossover. In plain terms, the Armada is the Nissan for shoppers who need space, muscle, and long-trip comfort more than fuel savings.
The SV is the practical version, with V8 power, three rows, seating for eight, and rear parking sensors. The SL adds family-friendly comfort with leather-appointed seating, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a power-folding third row. The Platinum is the road-trip-focused model, with navigation, Bose audio, rear DVD entertainment, a moonroof, front parking sensors, and heated second-row seats.
What changed, by category
2012 Nissan Armada specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 5.6 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 5.6 Liter | V8, 5.6 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 5.6 Liter | V8, 5.6 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 5.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd | Automatic, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 2WD | 4WD / 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel | Gas / Flexible Fuel |
| MPG City | 12–13 mpg | 12–13 mpg | 12 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 19 mpg | 19 mpg | 18–19 mpg |
| Horsepower | 317 hp | 317 hp | 317 hp |
| Torque | 385 lb-ft | 385 lb-ft | 385 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 8200 lb | 8200 lb | 9000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 97.1 cu-ft | 97.1 cu-ft | 97.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 32.2 in | 32.2 in | 32.2 in |
| Seats | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Rear Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Memory Pedals | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Power Folding Third Row Seat | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
| Wood Interior Trim | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2012 Nissan Armada significantly different from the 2011 model?
No. The 2012 Armada largely carries over from 2011, with the same V8, five-speed automatic transmission, trim structure, styling, safety hardware, and chassis design. Its changes are limited to added standard comfort equipment on the SL and Platinum trims.
What changed on the 2012 Nissan Armada SL?
The 2012 Armada SL adds a standard power liftgate and heated front seats. It retains features such as leather-appointed seating, a power-folding third row, rear auto-leveling suspension, and Bose audio.
What changed on the 2012 Nissan Armada Platinum?
The 2012 Armada Platinum adds standard heated second-row seats. It remains the most fully equipped trim, with navigation, Bose audio, rear DVD entertainment, a moonroof, a heated steering wheel, and front parking sensors.
Did the 2012 Nissan Armada get a new engine or transmission?
No. The 2012 Armada keeps its 5.6-liter V8 and five-speed automatic transmission, with no lineup-wide powertrain change for this model year.
Did the 2012 Nissan Armada receive styling or safety updates?
No. The 2012 Armada has no lineup-wide exterior refresh, lighting revision, or safety-system update. Its body, chassis, and suspension design are also unchanged.