- Nissan has introduced the 2026 Armada NISMO, ahead of its launch this fall.
- It features an upgraded twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 460 hp.
- The SUV gains a sportier exhaust, suspension upgrades, and revised styling.
The redesigned Nissan Armada is a huge leap forward and the company isn’t resting on their laurels. Quite the opposite as the body-on-frame SUV is gaining a NISMO variant for 2026.
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Set to arrive this fall, the model has been given a sporty makeover that isn’t skin deep. Instead, Nissan transformed the SUV into the most powerful Armada ever created.
Review: The 2025 Nissan Armada Is A Luxurious Body-On-Frame Battleship
Starting under the hood, the twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine has been “optimized” to produce 460 hp (343 kW / 466 PS) and 516 lb-ft (699 Nm) of torque when running on premium. That’s 35 hp (26 kW / 35 PS) more than the standard model and this was made possible thanks to revised engine tuning as well as changes to valve clearances.
Still, it is worth noting that the Patrol NISMO twin that has just been revealed in the Middle East produces a healthier 495 hp (369 kW / 501 PS) from an upgrade version of the same engine, likely allowed by the different emission regulations in the region.
Besides the engine upgrades, the Armada has been equipped with a retuned exhaust that promises a “more evocative” noise. Those inside will hear it thanks to an active sound enhancement system, which amplifies the exhaust note.
Elsewhere, there’s sportier suspension tuning bringing it closer to the ground, and a revised electric power steering system that promises to deliver a more engaging experience. The SUV also rides on 22-inch forged alloy wheels, which are wrapped in high-performance all-season rubber. The latter are backed up by red brake calipers, hinting at the model’s performance.
More: A Detailed Comparison Between The Nissan Patrol And The Armada
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Performance changes aside, the Armada NISMO has a unique look that certainly stands out – for better or worse. The front end is all-new and features a taller grille and a revised bumper with vertical air curtains. They’re joined by red accents, NISMO badging, and a front splitter.
The model also has unique fog lights and sportier side steps. At the back, there is new rear bumper with an eye-catching diffuser. Notably, the Armada NISMO one doesn’t get the F1-style brake light found in the Patrol NISMO. Finally, there is a handful of exclusive colors including NISMO Stealth Gray, NISMO Stealth Gray with Super Black roof, and Black Diamond Pearl.
Interior upgrades are more tasteful as there’s black leather seats with quilted red centers. Designers also installed red contrast stitching, aluminum pedals, a multicolor ambient lighting system, and adjustable side bolsters for the front seats. We can also see NISMO-branded headrests as well as a revised steering wheel with a red center stripe. The Patrol NISMO steps up the game with two extra touchscreens for the rear passengers, mounted on the front headrests.
The Armada NISMO will arrive in US dealerships this fall, with pricing set to be announced closer to that date. As for the Patrol NISMO, it will be available to order in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates starting July 2025.
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Putting the performance-focused version aside, it appears the regular Armada only has one update for 2026. It’s a minor change as the rugged PRO-4X trim can now be equipped with newly optional second-row captain’s chairs.