2026 Nissan Armada vs. 2021-2025 Armada

Browse New Nissan Armada Inventory in Fort Worth Why Buy from Fort Worth Nissan Nissan Armada Research Hub

For years, the Nissan Armada was defined by its 5.6L Endurance V8 engine. It was a staple for Fort Worth drivers who valued raw displacement and a signature exhaust note. However, with the arrival of the 2026 Nissan Armada, the landscape has changed. With the 2021 and 2022 models now entering the prime "trade-in" window for many North Texas families, the question is: how does the new twin-turbocharged platform actually compare to the legendary V8?

Performance Comparison: Power, Torque, and Efficiency

The biggest hurdle for fans of the 2021 Nissan Armada is moving away from the V8. However, the technical data shows that the new 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 (the VR35DDTT) outperforms the old naturally aspirated block in every measurable metric.

Metric	2021–2025 Nissan Armada (5.6L V8)	2026 Nissan Armada (3.5L Twin-Turbo)	Improvement
Horsepower	400 hp	425 hp	+25 hp
Torque	413 lb-ft	516 lb-ft	+103 lb-ft
Transmission	7-Speed Automatic	9-Speed Automatic	+2 Gears
Low-End Torque	Peak at 4,000 RPM	Peak at 2,000 RPM	50% Sooner
Fuel Economy	14 City / 19 Highway	TBD (Estimated +15%)	Significant

Why the 2026 Redesign Beats the 2021 Model

	While the 2022 Nissan Armada introduced a larger 12.3-inch screen, it still sat on a chassis and powertrain architecture that was over a decade old. The 2026 model is a ground-up redesign. Torque Delivery: The most noticeable difference for Tarrant County drivers will be the “off the line” feel. The 2026 Armada delivers its massive 516 lb-ft of torque much earlier in the rev range than the 2021 model. This makes pulling a trailer or merging onto the Chisholm Trail Parkway feel effortless. Transmission Smoothness: The jump from a 7-speed to a 9-speed automatic means smaller “steps” between gears. This eliminates the hunting for gears often felt in the older models when climbing hills or decelerating. Internal Volume: Despite having similar exterior dimensions, the 2026 model utilizes its wheelbase more efficiently, offering better 3rd-row legroom and cargo flexibility than the 2021–2025 generation.

While the 2022 Nissan Armada introduced a larger 12.3-inch screen, it still sat on a chassis and powertrain architecture that was over a decade old. The 2026 model is a ground-up redesign.

Torque Delivery: The most noticeable difference for Tarrant County drivers will be the “off the line” feel. The 2026 Armada delivers its massive 516 lb-ft of torque much earlier in the rev range than the 2021 model. This makes pulling a trailer or merging onto the Chisholm Trail Parkway feel effortless.
Transmission Smoothness: The jump from a 7-speed to a 9-speed automatic means smaller “steps” between gears. This eliminates the hunting for gears often felt in the older models when climbing hills or decelerating.
Internal Volume: Despite having similar exterior dimensions, the 2026 model utilizes its wheelbase more efficiently, offering better 3rd-row legroom and cargo flexibility than the 2021–2025 generation.

The Verdict for Fort Worth Owners

If you are currently driving a 2021 or 2022 Armada, your vehicle is at a high-value peak for trade-ins. Moving to the 2026 model isn't just an upgrade in tech; it is a fundamental shift in how the vehicle handles the demands of Texas driving. You gain more power, better towing control, and a significantly more modern interior without sacrificing the 8,500 pound towing capacity you rely on.

New vehicle pricing includes all offers and incentives. Tax, Title and Tags not included in vehicle prices shown and must be paid by the purchaser.

Prices of the vehicles on this website does not include options and/or accessories that have been installed at the dealership, which will be an additional cost. On most vehicles this will be Lifetime Warranty Window Tint, Wheel Locks and Touchscreen protector for $1,295.

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