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The Nissan Armada has been around for quite some time. However, it’s considered one of the best large SUVs without gaining mainstream popularity. Part of the reason is that many older models are less than stellar. Most of the newer editions get it right, but the 2017 Nissan Armada is considered one of the worst. Here’s what holds this model Armada back from the other recent offerings. 

This model Armada isn’t one of the best large SUVs

2017 Nissan Armada
2017 Nissan Armada | Nissan

The Nissan Armada is often called one of the best large SUVs. However, the 2017 Armada does not fit into this group of excellent Nissan offerings. The 2017 Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV with a number of problems that have proved to be costly. Among them, one of the most widespread complaints relates to the transmission. Unfortunately, drivers have experienced hard shifts and other semi-minor issues. However, there are also reports of premature transmission failure, which is an expensive fix.

The 2017 Armada also has problems with the brakes. People have reported that the brake pedals in the large SUV are often soft or spongy, making it more difficult to come to a stop. There are also reports of premature issues with the brake rotors and calipers. In some instances, the brake system needs to be repaired or replaced. Less severe, there are also problems with various electrical systems in the vehicle, namely the radio and dashboard lights.

This modern model of the Armada also has issues with the suspension system. As a result, it sometimes delivers rough rides that could be more comfortable. Additionally, there are problems with the fuel system, which in some cases leads to reduced fuel efficiency.

The Nissan Armada only offers a single engine option

2017 Nissan Armada | Nissan

The Nissan Armada is overall one of the best large SUVs. However, this isn’t the case regarding performance because it only offers one engine option. This lack of choice isn’t only true for the 2017 model, but it makes the common problems with the vehicle seem worse. According to Car and Driver, the 2017 Nissan Armada has a 5.6-liter V8 engine with a maximum output of 390 hp and a torque of 394 lb-ft. 

Despite only offering one engine opinion, this is one of the best large SUVs because of its acceleration. This used Nissan Armada accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.4 seconds. For the sake of comparison, the same model year Chevy Tahoe delivers similar speeds. However, it’s hard to say that this makes up for there only being one choice for an engine. 

The 2017 Nissan Armada has a severely outdated interior

2017 Nissan Armada interior one of the best large SUVs
2017 Nissan Armada | Nissan

Regarding the best large SUVs on the used market, the 2017 Armada interior isn’t among them. Though better than previous models of the SUV, the interior of the 2017 model was even dated for the time. This is primarily true for the infotainment system and the rest of the interior features. The display is 8.0 inches, and the system is said to be unresponsive at times. On the plus side, a premium sound system is standard.

So, is the 2017 Nissan Armada a smart investment for a large SUV? Most would say no simply because of the common problems associated with the vehicle. Many of them are expensive to fix, and they are all reasonably inconvenient. In addition, despite being fast, people like options, so this is not an overall good investment considering the Nissan Armada’s many rivals with more engine options and fewer problems.

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