New Nissan Armada brings an exotic look to big SUV

Nissan introduced the second generation of its Armada large SUV at the Chicago auto show this year, promising a capable vehicle for large families.

The new Armada is based on the Nissan Patrol, a body-on-frame SUV with a long history in markets outside the US.

Nissan gave the new Armada a styling update with its V-motion grille, although the design is not quite as pronounced as on its other vehicles.

LED headlights come standard on the Armada. LED running lights and tail lights are also standard.

The Armada carries eight passengers, with two in front and three in the second and third rows.

The body-on-frame design means it has an impressive towing capacity of 8,500 pounds.

The Armada can be had in rear-wheel or four-wheel drive.

Nissan fits it with a direct injection 5.6-liter V-8 engine, good for 390 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque, putting its power to the wheels through a seven speed automatic transmission.

The new Armada has a shorter wheelbase than the outgoing model, although it is longer overall.

Nissan offers the Armada in three trim levels: SV, SL and Platinum. Each trim can be had with four-wheel drive.

The new Armada loses some interior capacity compared to the previous generation due to the platform change.

In Platinum trim, power-adjustable leather-covered seats give the Armada an upscale feel.

Nissan has not released cargo capacity figures yet for the new Armada.

In Platinum trim, the third row seats go up or down at the push of a button.

Steering, which uses a hydraulic system and electric pump, feels tuned for a comfortable, easy driving character.

The four-wheel-drive system includes automatic, four high and four low.

This navigation infotainment system is dated, very similar to what Nissan has offered over the last five years.

The surround view monitor is a very useful feature in the Armada, making parking safer and working as a spotter for off-roading.

On an obstacle course, the Armada lifts its front wheel.