2018 Nissan Armada: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

2018 Nissan Armada

The biggest change for the 2018 Nissan Armada is an upgraded standard 8-inch infotainment system with easier multitouch control and added features. This is otherwise a light update rather than a redesign.

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About the 2018 Nissan Armada

2nd generation Armada (2017 redesign), second model year.

Nissan positions the Armada as a full-size SUV for families who still want real towing strength and available low-range 4WD, not just passenger space. The big selling points are its strong V8, up to 8,500-pound towing capacity, roomy three-row cabin, and a more upscale interior feel than many mainstream rivals. For most buyers, the Armada is a traditional truck-based SUV that blends family hauling, long-trip comfort, and serious trailer duty better than most crossover-style alternatives.

The 2018 Armada remains a three-row, V8-powered SUV with seating for up to eight and a towing capacity of up to 8,500 pounds. SV covers the practical essentials with navigation, Bose audio, heated front seats, and towing hardware, while SL adds leather, a 360-degree camera, and a power-folding third row. Platinum emphasizes comfort and safety features, and the new Platinum Reserve gives that package a more distinctive look with two-tone leather, open-pore wood, and dark chrome trim.

What changed, by category

Tech
The standard 8-inch infotainment system gains multitouch control, HD Radio, hands-free text messaging, and more USB ports. Platinum and the new Platinum Reserve also receive a camera-based rearview mirror.
Styling
The new Platinum Reserve trim adds dark chrome exterior details and 20-inch dark chrome wheels, plus two-tone leather with contrast stitching and open-pore wood inside.

2018 Nissan Armada specs and features by trim

Feature
2018 Nissan ArmadaSL4 in stock
2018 Nissan ArmadaSV1 in stock
2018 Nissan ArmadaPlatinum3 in stock
2018 Nissan ArmadaPlatinum Reserve0 in stock
EngineV8, 5.6 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 5.6 LiterV8, 5.6 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 5.6 LiterV8, 5.6 Liter / V8, Flex Fuel, 5.6 LiterV8, 5.6 Liter
TransmissionAuto, 7-Spd Synch RevAuto, 7-Spd Synch RevAuto, 7-Spd Synch RevAuto, 7-Spd Synch Rev
Drivetrain2WD2WD4WD4WD
Fuel TypeGas / Flexible FuelGas / Flexible FuelGas / Flexible FuelGas
MPG City14 mpg14 mpg13 mpg14 mpg
MPG Highway19 mpg19 mpg18 mpg19 mpg
Horsepower390 hp390 hp390 hp390 hp
Torque394 lb-ft394 lb-ft394 lb-ft394 lb-ft
Max Towing8500 lb8500 lb8500 lb8500 lb
Trunk/Cargo95.4 cu-ft95.4 cu-ft95.4 cu-ft95.4 cu-ft
Rear Legroom28.4 in28.4 in28.4 in28.4 in
Seats8888
Doors4444
Alarm System
Automatic Emergency Braking
Blindspot Sensors
Blindspot Sensors with Auto Brake
Lane Departure Warning
Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers
Rear View Camera
360 Camera
Alloy Wheels
Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors
Fog Lights
LED Headlights
Memory Exterior Mirrors
Power Moonroof
Power Liftgate/Trunk Release
Roof Rails
Front DVD Entertainment System
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Rear DVD Entertainment System
Smartphone Interface
Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror
Cooled Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Heated Rear Seats
Heated Steering Wheel
Leather Seats
Memory Driver's Seat
Memory Steering Wheel
Power Folding Third Row Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Start
Third Row Seat
Tilt Wheel
Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel
Wood Interior Trim

How the 2019 Nissan Armada compares

The 2019 Nissan Armada is a light-update model led by standard driver-assistance features across the lineup. There is no redesign or major mechanical update.

Frequently asked questions

Was the 2018 Nissan Armada redesigned?

No. The 2018 Armada is the second model year of the generation introduced for 2017, so its body-on-frame construction, three-row layout, and core design carry over.

What infotainment updates did the 2018 Nissan Armada receive?

The 2018 Armada's standard 8-inch infotainment system adds multitouch control, HD Radio, hands-free text messaging, and more USB ports across the lineup.

Which trim was added to the 2018 Nissan Armada lineup?

Platinum Reserve was added as the top 2018 Armada trim. It builds on Platinum with dark chrome exterior details, two-tone leather, contrast stitching, and open-pore wood trim.

Did the 2018 Nissan Armada get a new engine?

No. The 2018 Armada carries over its 390-horsepower 5.6-liter V8 and seven-speed automatic transmission.

Which 2018 Nissan Armada trims have the camera-based rearview mirror?

The camera-based rearview mirror is fitted to the 2018 Armada Platinum and Platinum Reserve. It uses a rear-facing camera to provide a view behind the SUV.

2018 Nissan Armada Reviews

What owners are saying about the 2018 Nissan Armada.

4.1
2018 Nissan Armada
(173 reviews)
5 stars (72)
4 stars (62)
3 stars (28)
2 stars (9)
1 star (2)

About owner reviews

Carvana owner reviews are provided in partnership with Strategic Vision, one of the largest automotive consumer research providers in the U.S. Star ratings are from ranking surveys completed by owners one to six months post-purchase. Comments from owners are optional, but included here when available.

No rating

“i love the sitting up high and floating down the road. i love the light interior and ease of interior controls. i love the way it looks inside and out. i love that i can drive it anywhere because i have the 4 wheel drive option! i i love the weight-it feels safe and secure.”

MHMergi H.
2018 Nissan Armada Platinum 4WD

“Armada is roomy and luxurious! Whole family fits, with luggage! Has great get up and go.”

ANAnn N.
2018 Nissan Armada Platinum 2WD
No rating

“smooth ride, quite, luxurious, more value for your money, spacious, larger seating capacity than most vehicles in this class.”

CJChad J.
2018 Nissan Armada SL 2WD