The 2025 Nissan Armada has made a bold move, saying goodbye to its powerful V8 engine in favor of a more efficient and modern V6. For longtime fans of the Armada’s muscle and capability, this change might raise eyebrows. So why did Nissan drop the V8 engine in the 2025 Nissan Armada? The answer lies in a mix of innovation, evolving driver expectations, and a shift toward smarter performance.
In this blog, we’re breaking down exactly what changed, why it matters, and how the all-new Nissan Armada V6 engine stacks up to its V8 predecessor. Whether you’re cruising through Lancaster or navigating the streets of Palmdale, the updated Armada is built to meet your driving needs with power and efficiency.
Ready to see the difference for yourself? Visit or contact Antelope Valley Nissan today to explore the reimagined 2025 Nissan Armada up close.
What Changed Under the Hood of the 2025 Nissan Armada?
The biggest shift in the 2025 Nissan Armada is clear the moment you look under the hood. Nissan has retired the V8 engine that powered past models and replaced it with a new twin-turbo V6. This change is more than just a tweak, it’s a full step forward in how the Armada delivers power and fuel savings.
For years, the V8 Nissan Armada was known for brute strength. But drivers today want more than just power. They want speed, smooth rides, and better gas mileage. That’s where the new Nissan Armada V6 engine comes in.
Here’s how the old and new powertrains compare:
Specification | V8 Engine (Previous Armada) | 2025 Nissan Armada V6 Engine |
Engine Type | 5.6L V8 | 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 |
Horsepower | 400 hp | 424 hp |
Torque | 413 lb-ft | 487 lb-ft |
Transmission | 7-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
Fuel Efficiency (est.) | 14–19 MPG | 17–22 MPG |
As you can see, the new 2025 Nissan Armada engine delivers more torque and horsepower than the V8. It also uses less gas. That means you get more power when you need it and better fuel use when you don’t.
Why did Nissan make this move?
- Better fuel use: Gas costs are rising, and buyers want to save.
- Stronger torque: The V6 gives more low-end power, which helps with towing and quick starts.
- Smoother ride: The smaller engine is lighter, which helps the SUV handle better.
- New tech: The twin-turbo setup uses smart systems to give more boost when you hit the gas.
This change also fits into a bigger trend across the auto world. Many top car brands are moving from V8s to turbo V6 engines. The goal is simple: give drivers more power, smoother rides, and better gas use, all without losing strength.
For drivers in places like Lancaster, Palmdale, and nearby cities, the new V6 is built to meet your needs. Whether you're driving to work, towing a trailer, or heading up to the hills, the 2025 Armada has you covered.
The heart of the Armada may have changed, but its purpose hasn’t. It still brings size, strength, and style, with a smarter engine to lead the way.
Why Did Nissan Replace the V8 Engine with a V6 in the Armada?
The decision to move away from the Nissan Armada V8 engine was not made overnight. Nissan saw a change in what drivers want. Gas is more costly. Emissions rules are stricter. People now care more about how far a tank of fuel can take them.
Drivers in Lancaster and Palmdale do not just want power. They want smarter SUVs that use less fuel, give a smooth ride, and cost less to run. Nissan made the change with all this in mind.
Here are the three big reasons behind the move:
- Fuel economy: A smaller engine uses less fuel. The new V6 is built to go farther with less.
- Cleaner drive: Lower emissions help meet U.S. and California clean air rules.
- Demand shift: More drivers want strong yet smart power. The V8 was tough, but not as smart with gas use.
Nissan chose to act now, not later. The new Nissan Armada V6 helps them do that.
The Strategy: More Power, Less Waste
Nissan did not just shrink the engine. They built it to do more with less. The twin-turbo setup in the 2025 Nissan Armada engine is packed with smart design.
- It delivers more torque at lower RPMs.
- It has 424 horsepower, more than the V8.
- It works with a 9-speed auto that shifts faster and smoother.
- It is lighter, which helps handling and speed.
This new powertrain lets drivers enjoy the size of the Armada without the old downsides.
Here’s a quick look:
Feature | Nissan Armada V8 Engine | 2025 Nissan Armada V6 Engine |
Engine Size | 5.6L V8 | 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 |
Horsepower | 400 hp | 424 hp |
Torque | 413 lb-ft | 487 lb-ft |
EPA MPG (est.) | 14 city / 19 highway | 17 city / 22 highway (est.) |
What This Means for Drivers
If you drive in Lakeview or Acton, you know stop-and-go traffic and long drives are the norm. A lighter, more fuel-wise SUV matters. The new engine gives you strong pull for towing, quick take-offs, and less pain at the pump.
The Nissan Armada V6 is the right fit for today’s roads. It shows that power and fuel savings can work hand in hand. Nissan’s move is not a step back, it’s a smart leap forward.
How Does the New Nissan Armada V6 Engine Perform in Real-World Driving?
The Nissan Armada V6 engine is more than numbers on paper. It’s built to perform in the real world, on city streets, dirt roads, and wide-open highways. From Lancaster to Lakeview, drivers want an SUV that handles family, fun, and the unexpected.
The old V8 Nissan Armada had strong power, but the new V6 brings smart performance where it counts.
Everyday Power You Can Count On
The 2025 Nissan Armada engine offers quick response and smooth strength, thanks to its twin-turbo V6 setup. This matters in day-to-day life, whether you’re merging on a fast freeway or pulling a trailer on a weekend trip.
Here’s what drivers in Palmdale and Acton can expect:
- 0 to 60 mph: The V6 reaches it in under 6 seconds—faster than the outgoing V8.
- Towing capacity: Up to 8,500 lbs, equal to the older V8 model.
- Torque: A strong 487 lb-ft, great for pulling boats, ATVs, or trailers.
- Horsepower: 424 hp, more than the 400 hp in the V8.
These numbers mean you get more pull at lower speeds. That’s key for towing and hill climbs.
Better in the City, Stronger on the Trails
The lighter engine improves how the 2025 Nissan Armada moves. You’ll feel it in tight city turns and on long desert drives.
Urban driving highlights:
- Quicker steering response
- Less nose dip when stopping
- Easier parking thanks to lighter front weight
Off-road benefits:
- More control on dirt roads
- Steady throttle in sand or mud
- Better balance on rocky paths
Handling That Keeps You in Control
The V6 setup pairs with a 9-speed transmission. This gives more gear options than the old 7-speed in the V8. That means:
- Smoother shifting
- Less engine strain
- Better fuel use over long drives
This is perfect for drivers in places like Acton, where road trips and mountain drives are common.
Side-by-Side: V8 vs. V6 Driving Feel
Feature | V8 Nissan Armada | Nissan Armada V6 Engine |
Horsepower | 400 hp | 424 hp |
Torque | 413 lb-ft | 487 lb-ft |
0–60 mph time | ~6.2 seconds | ~5.9 seconds |
Transmission | 7-speed auto | 9-speed auto |
Towing (max) | 8,500 lbs | 8,500 lbs |
Real-world fuel savings | Lower | Improved by ~15% |
Final Word on Daily Use
For the average driver in Lancaster or Palmdale, the new Nissan Armada V6 engine is a real step up. It gives you more zip, better balance, and saves fuel, all without giving up the strength the Armada is known for.
The 2025 Nissan Armada engine shows that smart power can still be strong. Whether you're towing, cruising, or off the grid, this SUV is ready.
What Are the Benefits of Choosing the 2025 Nissan Armada in Antelope Valley?
The 2025 Nissan Armada is made for drivers who want power and comfort but also care about fuel and cost. For those in the Antelope Valley, where long drives are part of life, this new model offers big gains in key areas.
Save More on Every Mile
Gas prices in Lancaster and Palmdale hit your wallet fast, especially when you drive often. The switch from the V8 Nissan Armada to a lighter, twin-turbo Nissan Armada V6 engine means better fuel use without giving up strength.
Fuel Savings at a Glance:
Model | City MPG (est.) | Highway MPG (est.) | Combined MPG |
V8 Nissan Armada | 14 | 19 | 16 |
2025 Nissan Armada V6 | 17 | 22 | 19 |
With the new V6, local drivers can save up to $300 per year on fuel, based on average commute times in the area.
Breathe Easier With Lower Emissions
Antelope Valley skies are wide and open, but air quality matters here, too. The Nissan Armada V6 engine cuts down on harmful gases, thanks to:
- Smaller engine size
- Smarter turbo use
- Improved fuel control systems
This helps the environment and keeps the Armada in line with stricter state rules in California.
Built for Long Drives and Busy Streets
If you live in or around Acton, Palmdale, or Lakeview, you know what daily traffic feels like. The 2025 model brings comfort to those long drives.
Key benefits for local commuters:
- Less gas use during stop-and-go
- Smoother gear shifts with the 9-speed auto
- Quieter cabin at high speeds
- Easier handling in tight spots
Modern Features That Make Every Drive Better
The 2025 Nissan Armada is more than just a new engine. It adds updates that improve safety, comfort, and tech. Features include:
- Digital gauge cluster
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Head-up display
- ProPILOT Assist for highway drives
These make each trip easier, whether you're heading to work in Lancaster or taking the family out of town.
Is It Time to Upgrade from the V8?
Many local drivers have relied on the V8 model for years. But there are real gains in trading up to the 2025 version.
Reasons to upgrade:
- More power and torque
- Lower yearly fuel cost
- Better resale value
- Full tech refresh
Incentives may include:
- Trade-in offers for V8 models
- Dealer savings at Antelope Valley Nissan
- Low APR or lease specials on new Armada stock
Ask about these deals when you stop by.
Final Word
For drivers in Antelope Valley, the 2025 Nissan Armada brings smart power, cleaner driving, and real savings. It’s a smart step forward from the older V8, and a strong choice for everyday life in Southern California.
How Does the 2025 Nissan Armada Compare to Other Full-Size SUVs?
The full-size SUV market is packed with options. Some still use big V8 engines. Others are now shifting to turbo V6 setups, just like the 2025 Nissan Armada.
So how does Nissan’s newest model compare?
Let’s take a look.
V8 vs. V6 in Today’s SUV World
Many large SUVs still offer a V8. Some include the Chevy Tahoe or Ford Expedition with available V8 power. These models have strong pull, but they also use more fuel.
The Nissan Armada V8 engine had power, but it came at a cost.
Nissan made the smart move. The switch to a turbo V6 gives drivers:
- More torque
- Better gas mileage
- Smoother shifts
- Lower weight
The new Nissan Armada V6 finds the sweet spot between muscle and smarts.
Head-to-Head: Armada vs. Key Rivals
Vehicle | Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque | Est. MPG (City/Hwy) |
2025 Nissan Armada | 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 | 424 hp | 487 lb-ft | 17 / 22 |
Chevy Tahoe (V8) | 5.3L V8 | 355 hp | 383 lb-ft | 15 / 20 |
Ford Expedition (V6) | 3.5L Turbo V6 | 400 hp | 480 lb-ft | 17 / 23 |
Toyota Sequoia (Hybrid) | 3.4L Turbo V6 | 437 hp | 583 lb-ft | 19 / 22 |
As you can see, the 2025 Nissan Armada matches or beats these models in key areas. It has more torque than both the Tahoe and Expedition. And it saves more fuel than any V8 rival.
Why Southern California Families Will Notice the Difference
Families in Lakeview and Acton spend time on the road. Whether it’s school runs, weekend trips, or heading into the city, your SUV has to work hard.
The Armada is ready.
- The V6 makes steep climbs smoother.
- It cuts fuel stops on long drives.
- Towing boats or trailers is easy with 487 lb-ft of torque.
- The lighter body handles turns and parking with less effort.
Balanced Power, Built for SoCal Roads
The Nissan Armada V6 gives drivers a better blend of punch and savings. It keeps the strength of the past but adds smart updates for today.
The switch from the Nissan Armada V8 engine was more than a change. It’s the reason the 2025 Nissan Armada is now one of the best full-size SUVs for real life in Southern California.
It’s strong. It’s smart. And it’s ready for your next drive.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2025 Nissan Armada Engine Change
If you're shopping for a full-size SUV or considering an upgrade from a previous V8 Nissan Armada, these are some of the most common questions we hear from drivers in Lancaster, Palmdale, and surrounding Antelope Valley areas. Here are the answers to help you make a confident, informed decision.
Is Nissan discontinuing the V8 for 2025?
Yes, Nissan has officially discontinued the V8 engine for the 2025 Armada.
What engine does the 2025 Armada have?
The 2025 Nissan Armada is equipped with a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine.
Is changing from a V8 to a V6 engine in the 2025 Armada an improvement?
Yes, the V6 engine in the 2025 Armada delivers more horsepower, more torque, improved fuel efficiency, and smoother overall performance compared to the outgoing V8.
How much power does the 2025 Armada with a V6 engine produce?
The 2025 Armada’s V6 engine produces 424 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque.
Discover More at Antelope Valley Nissan
If you’re in Lancaster, Palmdale, Lakeview, or Acton, now is the perfect time to check out the 2025 Nissan Armada with its efficient and powerful V6 engine. Visit Antelope Valley Nissan to explore our wide selection of new and pre-owned vehicles designed to fit your lifestyle and budget.
Our team is ready to help you find the perfect ride and answer any questions you have. Don’t miss out on great offers and trade-in deals available now.
While you’re here, take a moment to learn which Nissan vehicles come with V6 engines or discover the exciting new features in the redesigned 2025 Nissan Murano. If you’re shopping for a used Nissan, find out if Nissan Certified Pre-Owned vehicles come with a warranty. These easy-to-read guides will help you make smarter choices.
Visit our site and see all that Antelope Valley Nissan has to offer. We’re here to help you get behind the wheel of the right Nissan today.