For years, the Nissan Armada has been praised as one of the most affordable full-size three-row SUVs on the market. Shoppers loved the idea of getting a capable, V8-powered, family-sized SUV with plenty of features for under $60,000. Unfortunately, that era has now come to an end. With the arrival of the 2026 model year, the Armada officially crosses the $60,000 threshold, largely due to increased tariffs, rising import costs, and a higher destination charge.
While this may come as a disappointment for buyers hoping to score a budget-friendly large SUV, the Armada still manages to maintain a price advantage over its biggest competitors, including the Toyota Sequoia, Jeep Wagoneer, and Chevrolet Tahoe. On top of that, Nissan is rolling out some exciting new trims for 2026, including the off-road-focused Pro-4X and the all-new performance-inspired Armada NISMO. More news
Let’s take a closer look at what’s changing for the Armada, how much prices have gone up, and how it stacks up against rivals in the ever-competitive full-size SUV segment.
Why the Price Jump?
Here’s a full look at the 2026 Armada lineup, including how much each trim increased compared to 2025:
- Armada SV RWD – $61,030 (+$1,615)
- Armada SV 4WD – $64,030 (+$2,615)
- Armada SL RWD – $65,720 (+$855)
- Armada SL 4WD – $68,720 (+$855)
- Armada Platinum RWD – $72,680 (+$855)
- Armada Platinum 4WD – $75,680 (+$855)
- Armada Platinum Reserve RWD – $79,740 (+$855)
- Armada Platinum Reserve 4WD – $82,740 (+$855)
- Armada Pro-4X – $76,490 (+$855)
- Armada NISMO 4WD – $81,720 (new for 2026)
The most noticeable jump is on the entry-level SV trims, where the increase is between $1,615 and $2,615, depending on drivetrain. Higher trims, however, only saw an $855 rise year-over-year.
The New Arrival: Armada NISMO
One of the biggest headlines for 2026 is the debut of the Armada NISMO, a performance-oriented version of Nissan’s largest SUV. This sporty trim comes with:
- 460 horsepower (35 hp more than standard models)
- Unique styling cues for a more aggressive appearance
Suspension and handling upgrades for sharper road manners
At $81,720, the Armada NISMO isn’t cheap, but it’s still significantly more affordable than other performance-focused SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade-V (well over $100,000) or the Mercedes-AMG GLS63. The NISMO gives buyers a chance to enjoy a sportier take on the Armada without venturing into six-figure pricing territory.
How the Armada Stacks Up Against Rivals
Even with its new higher price, the Nissan Armada still undercuts many of its direct competitors.
- Toyota Sequoia (2026) – Starts at $66,120, making it over $5,000 more expensive than the Armada SV. Even the off-road-focused Sequoia TRD Pro costs $82,860, which is pricier than Nissan’s Pro-4X and nearly identical to the Armada NISMO.
- Jeep Wagoneer (2025) – Starting at $62,040, the Wagoneer is only $1,010 more than the Armada SV. However, top trims like the Wagoneer Super Special ($83,230) are very close in price to the Armada Platinum Reserve, giving buyers a tough decision between the two.
- Chevrolet Tahoe (2026) – While not highlighted as much, the Tahoe’s starting price also sits higher than the Armada, meaning Nissan still holds an advantage for budget-conscious buyers.
So while the Armada is no longer the sub-$60k bargain it once was, it remains one of the more affordable options in its class—especially when you factor in feature-packed trims.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Nissan Armada may no longer be the under-$60,000 steal that it was just a year ago, but it still represents solid value in the full-size SUV market. Rising tariffs and increased delivery charges were bound to push prices higher, but Nissan has managed to keep the Armada more affordable than its biggest competitors.
The introduction of the new NISMO trim also shows that Nissan is committed to expanding the Armada lineup, giving customers more choices between luxury, off-road capability, and sporty street performance.
For families needing a powerful, three-row SUV with strong towing capacity and plenty of interior space, the Armada continues to make a strong case—especially for those who want luxury and performance without paying luxury-brand prices.
FAQs
How much is the 2026 Nissan Armada starting price?
The 2026 Nissan Armada starts at $58,840 MSRP before delivery and $61,030 including the $2,190 destination fee, reflecting a price increase over the previous year.
Why did Armada’s price go up this year?
Prices rose due to higher import costs and tariffs plus a $180 bump in the delivery (destination) fee, making the new destination cost $2,190.
How much does the 2026 Armada NISMO cost?
The brand-new Armada NISMO is priced from $79,530 MSRP, and $81,720 with the $2,190 delivery fee—a performance-focused addition to the lineup.
What makes the Armada NISMO special?
The NISMO model has 460 hp (35 more than other trims), sportier suspension and handling, unique styling, and an aggressive look inside and out.
Does the Armada still cost less than rivals?
Yes. Even with higher prices, the Armada remains more affordable compared to SUVs like the Toyota Sequoia or Jeep Wagoneer, making it good value. (Details in full article.)
Any off-road or luxury upgrades for 2026 Armada?
The Pro-4X now offers optional second-row captain’s chairs, and trims like Platinum Reserve add cabin upgrades. And yes, there’s now the sporty NISMO.
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