It’s no secret that people want the Nissan Xterra to return. However, There is another SUV that’s getting all the attention and off-roading goodies. The Nissan Patrol Nismo is a rugged SUV that serves as a cooler Armada model that we can’t have. But maybe the Nissan Armada will gain similar off-roading and performance upgrades. 

What is the Nissan Patrol Nismo? 

According to Motor Authority, the Nissan Nismo performance package is used to transform Nissan models into off-roading beasts. For example, the Nissan Frontier Nismo can be found in multiple off-roading competitions such as the Rebelle Rally. 

Despite calls for the smaller Nissan Xterra to return, we have the Nissan Armada. It can’t really challenge the Toyota Highlander in off-roading competitions, but it holds its own as a luxurious family hauler. 

The 2021 Nissan Patrol is the global version of the Armada that we can’t have in the United States. However, the Patrol might provide clues as to what’s on the way. So, if the Patrol gets a Nismo build, will the Armada get one? 

What comes with the Patrol Nismo? 

The 2021 Nissan Patrol Nismo will be revealed on March 31, so we will learn more in a few days. Until then, previous models will serve as clues for what to expect. The last Patrol Nismo was launched in 2015 with mechanical and visual upgrades. 

With the Nismo, you got an engine upgrade. The 5.6-liter V8 engine was tuned to gain an additional 28 hp for a grand total of 428 hp. The torque was unchanged at 413 lb-ft but registered a higher rev range. 

The body structure was also given reinforcements to improve strength and rigidity. A body kit also enhanced downforce. Suspension upgrades included upgraded Bilstein shocks. More upgrades included forged 22-inch wheels and tweaks made to the power steering system. 

We have the Nissan Armada here instead of the Nissan Patrol. The Armada includes a few safety and emission upgrades to meet the quality standards set by North America. So, the Armada and Patrol are almost twins, making it seem possible for the Nissan Armada Nismo to become a thing. 

What’s new for the 2022 Armada? 

The 2022 Nissan Armada received an exterior and interior refresh. These looks will most likely be carried over for the 2022 Nissan Patrol Nismo. Hopefully, because these two SUVs are so similar, we’ll get the Nissan Armada Nismo to enhance its off-roading abilities. 

According to Nissan Model, the 2022 Armada still uses the same 5.6-liter V8 engine with 400 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. But its output has increased by ten hp from 390 hp. Perhaps the Nissan Patrol Nismo will have even more muscle. 

The powertrain is connected to the same seven-speed automatic transmission, and the Armada can tow up to 8,500 lb when properly equipped. The integrated brake control and trailer sway control are now available across more trim levels. 

Along with a new, more aggressive look that includes LED headlights, the interior has been refreshed with tech updates. You can upgrade to a new 12.3-inch touchscreen, include a Wifi hot spot, wireless phone charging, and more. All that’s missing is the Nismo off-roading package.