Obviously the Armada's 4-wheel disc brakes enhance stopping performance on pavement as well, due to the aforementioned Bosch ABS system as well as Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). Additional active safety features include Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system with Traction Control and Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS). What's more, Nissan's full-size SUV boasts speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, for that crisp European handling feel - at least it feels European compared to some of the Armada's domestic rivals.
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| The new SUV's somewhat stark interior layout is intuitive and user-friendly. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
Also similar to the Europeans is the new SUV's somewhat stark interior layout. It's a modern design that mirrors the distinctive angles of the truck's exterior, unique in the segment for sure. Personally I like what Nissan has done with it, at least with regards to ergonomics and styling. Everything I needed immediately fell to my fingers in an intuitive way, a user-friendly characteristic that most Japanese automakers study out thoroughly and manage to get right time after time. The sporty leather-clad steering-wheel fit my hands perfectly, and featured the requisite steering wheel controls ideally placed for thumb actuation.
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| Unfortunately the plastic quality of many of the interior parts doesn't live up to the truck's stylish looks. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
Framed by the steering wheel, a large instrument panel features an analog tachometer at left and speedo at center position. Ancillary gauges make up the right third of the package. All the switchgear, including stalks, buttons and knobs, are large and well designed, but unfortunately Nissan didn't follow through to finish the truck off with high quality plastics. Especially unimpressive are the three circular heating, ventilation and air-conditioning knobs attached to the center stack. Each features a piece of molded plastic that rotates around the outside of the knob, again an excellent design executed poorly. The plastic is so cheap and fitment so wiggly it feels as if it will soon fall off.