The full-size performance SUV space has been heating up lately, with Cadillac’s Escalade-V setting the bar high and Ford responding with its Expedition Stealth Performance Package. Now Nissan throws its hat into the ring with a new top-tier utility vehicle. The 2026 Armada NISMO marks the first time Nissan’s full-size SUV gets the NISMO treatment in the U.S. market, bringing 40+ years of motorsport expertise to the family hauler category. And while it might not pack the earth-shaking power of some competitors, it also doesn’t sacrifice the Armada’s inherent capability for the sake of performance and speed.
The NISMO Legacy Arrives
NISMO’s story begins in 1984, born from the merger of Nissan’s two motorsport divisions with a simple mission: bring racing technology to the street. From the legendary R32 Skyline GT-R that dominated touring car racing to today’s track-bred Z NISMO, the performance arm has consistently delivered vehicles that feel different from their base counterparts instead of just cosmetically enhanced versions with a few visual add-ons.
The Armada NISMO continues this philosophy, taking Nissan’s already capable full-size SUV and giving it a legit performance makeover, with engineers actually spending time retuning fundamental systems to create a driving experience that justifies the NISMO badge.
Power Play
Under the hood sits the familiar VR35DDTT twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 that’s been a staple across Nissan’s lineup, from the GT-R to the current Z. But here it’s been massaged to produce 460hp — a 35hp bump over the standard Armada’s 425hp. The gains come from revised engine mapping, adjusted valve clearances, and a retuned exhaust system that promises a more aggressive soundtrack both inside and out.
While 460hp might seem modest compared to the supercharged monsters from Detroit, it’s worth remembering this is still a 6,000+-pound SUV that needs to haul families and tow boats. The VR engine family has proven itself bulletproof over nearly two decades, and the power delivery here prioritizes usable torque over eyebrow-raising peak numbers. Its unchanged 516lb.ft of torque arrives at just 3,600 rpm, which is exactly where you want it when merging onto highways or pulling away from stoplights with seven passengers on board.
Handling the Heavyweight
As for the chassis modifications, NISMO engineers retuned both the electric power steering and adaptive air suspension to deliver what they call “more engaging and direct handling.” Likewise, the 22-inch forged wheels come wrapped in performance-oriented all-season tires. Red-painted brake calipers have also been added, though Nissan hasn’t mentioned any upgrades to the actual braking hardware.
Aesthetic Improvements
In terms of styling changes, a new front fascia features a larger grille flanked by vertical air curtains for improved aerodynamics, directing airflow around the front wheels. Meanwhile, fender flares give the Armada a wider, more planted stance while accommodating those larger wheels and tires.
The rear spoiler is designed to help manage airflow at highway speeds. Side steps come standard despite the lowered ride height (reduced by 0.7”), while the overall look of the vehicle is expectedly aggressive but without losing its charm as a family car.
Red Alert Interior
Inside, the NISMO version gives us charcoal leather seats with quilted red inserts and NISMO stitching, while adjustable side bolsters help keep occupants in place during more intense driving, assuming you can find roads where a 6,000-pound SUV would be appropriate. We also get aluminum pedals, multicolor ambient lighting, and the 12 o’clock stripe on the steering wheel borrowed from Nissan’s sports cars, providing a subtle reminder of the vehicle’s performance pedigree.
Spec Sheet
Model: 2026 Nissan Armada NISMO
Engine: Twin-turbo 3.5L V6
Power: 460hp
Torque: 516lb.ft
Transmission: 9-speed automatic
Drivetrain: RWD/4WD available
Wheels: 22-inch forged alloy
Tires: Performance all-season
Seating: 7 passengers
Towing Capacity: 8,500 lbs
Ground Clearance: 8.9 inches
Pricing & Availability
The 2026 Armada NISMO hits dealerships this fall, though Nissan hasn’t released final pricing yet. Based on the current Armada lineup, expect it to slot between the PRO-4X (currently $73,740) and Platinum Reserve ($76,990). Available colors so far include exclusive NISMO Stealth Gray, Black Diamond Pearl, and Everest White Pearl Tricoat, with the gray and white having the option to be paired with a contrasting black roof.
Recap
2026 Nissan Armada NISMO
Nissan gives its full-size Armada SUV the NISMO treatment for the first time ever, bringing performance features (but not too much) to the family hauler.
