Nissan has built sporty trims of its coupes, sedans, and even the Juke crossover under its NISMO (Nissan Motorsports) brand, but it has not offered a NISMO version of a full-size SUV — until now. The 2026 Armada NISMO will bring unique looks and improved power while retaining the same, utility focused foundation.
The powertrain of the NISMO Armada is mechanically identical to the one that powers the rest of the Armada lineup, a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The NISMO trim gets a special exhaust system as well as a unique tune that requires you to fill the tank with premium fuel, which is recommended but not required in the other trims. Those changes boost horsepower from the 425 made by the other Armadas to a punchy 460. Torque output is unchanged, at 516 lb-ft at 3600 rpm.
Setting the NISMO apart visually are an exclusive fascia, fender flares, and rear spoiler that give the SUV a strong road presence while also improving its aerodynamics. The 22-inch forged aluminum wheels and red calipers are also dead giveaways that you’re looking at a NISMO Armada. The Stealth Gray paint on the Armada pictured here, available with or without a Super Black roof, is a NISMO exclusive, as is Black Diamond Pearl. Inside, charcoal upholstery is accented with broad strokes of red quilted leather. The front seats feature deeper bolsters than the regular Armada chairs, and matching second-row captain seats are available.
The additional power will be complemented by NISMO suspension and steering tuning that work with the adaptive air suspension to tighten on-road performance. Despite its sharpened handling and on-road tuning, the NISMO maintains the same 8500-pound towing capacity as any other Armada.
Nissan hasn’t announced pricing for the 2026 Armada NISMO, but, judging by the equipment, this trim seems to have been placed between the PRO-4X (reviewed here) and the luxurious Platinum Reserve. Considering there’s not much of a gap between those two, the NISMO will probably start around $77,000. We won’t have to wonder for long, as 2026 Nissan Armado NISMO models will arrive at dealerships this fall.
Wow. That is exceedingly hideous.
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