2025 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve

A Jaw-Dropping Full-Size SUV That Breaks the Mold

I probably would’ve laughed if someone told me a year ago that I’d be gushing over a Nissan SUV. But after spending a full week behind the 2025 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve wheel, I’m officially eating my words. This isn’t just a new SUV—this is a bold statement from Nissan that they’re stepping into the luxury full-size game, and doing it with serious style, power, and presence.

A Head-Turner from Every Angle

Right out of the gate, the two-tone Alpine Metallic and Super Black paint combo is a stunner. This thing glows in the sunlight and demands attention. The new design language is sleeker and more aggressive, with the LED headlights and full-width taillamps perfectly accentuating its bold shape. It looks more like a luxury European SUV than something you’d expect from Nissan. Every exterior detail screams premium, from the 22-inch alloy wheels to the body-color running boards.

Step Inside: The Wow Factor Is Real

I’ll be honest—I’ve never described a Nissan interior as “gorgeous” before, but here we are. The moment you open the door, the Chestnut and Rye Quilted Leather seats hit you with that high-end vibe. The texture and craftsmanship are top-notch. And with bright ambient interior lighting and customizable 64-color mood settings, it feels like you’re stepping into something way more expensive than its sub-$90K price tag.

Space? Oh yeah—tons of it. Legroom and headroom are generous in all three rows. Whether you’re hauling a family or road-tripping with your crew, everyone rides in comfort. I had four adults and 7 pieces of luggage on an airport run, and the Armada didn’t even flinch. There’s a panoramic sunroof too, which makes the already spacious interior feel even more open and inviting.

Futuristic Tech that’s Actually Useful

Nissan nailed the tech integration. The dual 14.3-inch displays blend seamlessly into the dash, and the digital instrument cluster makes everything look modern and sleek. The camera system deserves its own shoutout—crisp, high-definition views and an intelligent dash cam that records inside and outside the cabin. That’s a big win for safety and peace of mind.

Speaking of safety, the ProPILOT Assist 2.1 for hands-off freeway cruising is fantastic. Combine that with features like pedestrian detection, trailer assist, and an invisible hood view, and this thing is loaded with tools that make you feel like you’re driving smarter, not harder.

Big Power, Big Tank, Big Range

Under the hood, you get a 425-hp twin-turbo V6 and a 9-speed automatic transmission, which offers smooth yet powerful acceleration. It rides a little on the truck-like side, especially over bumps, but it still feels planted and capable. With an 18.7 MPG average and a massive fuel tank, I was able to cruise for almost 500 miles on a single fill-up. That kind of range in a full-size SUV? Chef’s kiss.

Final Verdict: This Ain’t Your Typical Nissan

I’ve driven a lot of full-size SUVs in this price range, and hands down, the 2025 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve is the best one under $100K I’ve experienced. From the luxurious design, premium materials, and tech-forward cabin, to the powerful performance, Nissan has officially raised the bar.

There are just two things I’d tweak:

No cool box? In a vehicle this nice, that’s a missed opportunity.
The second-row center console could be more flexible—removable or stowable– which would make cargo loading even easier.

Still, this SUV left a lasting impression. After 7 days, I truly didn’t want to give it back.

Starting Price: $79,990
Price as-Tested: $86,840
Horsepower: 425 hp
Torque: 516 lb-ft
Seats: 7

This new Armada doesn’t just look like a luxury SUV—it feels like one. Nissan came out swinging, and this one’s a game-changer. Want to turn heads on the road and feel like a boss behind the wheel? Go test drive this thing. You’ll see exactly what I mean.

Rating: (9/10)

Bonus Take: We Also Took Armada’s Big Brother for a Spin at TAWA’s Autoroundup.

We had the unique chance to line up the new Armada next to its more luxurious sibling, the all-new 2025 INFINITI QX80, and let me tell you—it’s a whole different experience. If the Armada is the boss, the QX80 is the CEO who wears tailored suits and flies first class.

Right away, the QX80 grabs you with its bolder exterior design and standout color. Inside, it levels up everything we loved about the Armada. The leather is even plusher; there’s a cool box for your drinks, and additional digital screens control seat temp and comfort settings. Oh, and the top-of-the-line sound system? Absolutely elite.

With 450 horsepower, the QX80 feels just as powerful but more refined. The only thing we wished for was a slightly softer ride, but honestly, that’s nitpicking.

2025 INFINITI QX80

Starting Price: $82,450
Price as-Tested: $110,595
Horsepower: 450 hp
Torque: 516 lb-ft
MPG: 16/19/17

The QX80 is everything the new Nissan Armada is—and more. It’s a true flagship SUV that sets a new standard for INFINITI.

Rating: 9.5/10

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