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2006 Nissan Armada SUV

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What’s New?
Introduced in 2004, the Armada maintains its original design. No exterior or interior redesigns have been made yet, but are expected in the near future. For 2006, Armada receives a few upgrades. Standard equipment now includes dual-zone climate controls, an audio system with MP3 playback capability, and a 60/40 split-fold third-row seat that folds flat. The LE model adds new features to the exterior mirrors: power fold, heat, power adjust, auto dim, and integrated turn signals. Two new exterior colors are available as well: Majestic Blue and Granite.

Overview
The easiest way to convey that something is big is to give it a big name. Nissan did just that with the Armada. A wide stance, angular exterior panels, and a massive grille give the appearance of a giant ship maneuvering its way down the street. Inside, the Armada offers a great deal of storage and seating capacity. Standard features include a large center console, a full-length overhead console with lights, a gated floor-mounted shifter, three 12-volt power outlets, up to 14 cupholders, power driver’s seat, and power adjustable pedals for comfort and safety. A long list of available features includes a rear view backup camera, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, Bose audio system, and XM or Sirius Satellite Radio.

The Armada comes in SE and LE trim levels; both are available in four- (4WD) or two-wheel drive. There’s also an SE Off-Road 4WD version that features off-road tires and a “4LO” gear ratio, which is used for “crawling.”

The Armada features one powerplant: a 5.6L DOHC V-8 that produces 305 hp and 385 lb.-ft. of torque, enough to tow up to 9,100 pounds. There’s also a 28-gallon fuel tank, which comes in handy considering the Armada’s 13 mpg city fuel economy rating. To keep the Armada from listing, there’s a tire pressure-monitoring system, as well as standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), which helps the driver maintain control in low-traction situations.

The Competition
The Armada resides in the Large Utility segment and competes against several well-established products. Vehicles—and profits—in this segment are big, although recent increases in fuel prices have reduced demand for vehicles in this segment.

The Chevrolet Tahoe leads the segment, tallying 152,305 sales in calendar year 2005, according to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report.SM A new Tahoe was introduced for the 2007 model year that should give the brand a sales boost, making it even tougher on the competition. The Ford Expedition, with sales of 114,137 in 2005, and the Chevrolet Suburban (87,011 sales) round out the top three sellers in the segment. The Armada sold 4,088 units in 2005.


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