The 2021 Nissan Armada received a significant refresh but did the top-of-the-line Nissan Armada Platinum trim receive enough updates to be worth it? Let’s explore if this family-hauling SUV is worth the extra money. 

Is the 2021 Nissan Armada Platinum worth buying? 

Maybe. First, let’s start with what’s new for the 2021 Nissan Armada. It got a revised exterior design to look more confident and capable. It got a new bumper and taillight design in the rear too. 

The center stack now includes a larger 12.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay. The new 7-inch digital cluster display looks excellent, and new standard safety features such as blind-spot monitoring are included. Best of all, the V8 engine has been boosted from having 390 hp to 400 hp and 394 lb-ft of torque to 413 lb-ft. 

What comes with the Armada Platinum? 

The 2021 Nissan Armada Platinum trim has an MSRP of $64,900. The Nissan Armada S, which is the base level trim, has an MSRP of $48,500. So, the cost to go from basic to Platinum is about $16,400. This is also before destination fees, and dealership markups have been added, so it could cost even more to upgrade. 

Both terms come with standard rear-wheel drive. So, you’ll have to pay to add four-wheel drive. They also come with the same 5.6-liter v8 engine and can tow up to 8,500 pounds when properly equipped. We were hoping that the Platinum trim would have a little more muscle. 

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The Platinum trim comes with 22-inch wheels instead of 18-inch wheels and includes optional captain’s chairs in the second row. The convenience features such as keyless entry are similar, and so are the interior materials.

However, the Platinum trim does add quilted leather, carpet flooring, mats, and ventilated seats. With the Nissan Armada Platinum, you also get an LCD monitor in the second row and wireless headphones. 

How does the 2021 Armada Platinum perform? 

According to Truck Trend, the 2021 Nissan Armada Platinum has an excellent ride on the highway. The ride is smooth, and the cabin is quiet. This would be a great option as a relaxing daily driver. 

To get up to 413 hp with the V8 engine, you need to use premium fuel. With regular fuel, you get 400 hp. Also, the Armada gets an EPA estimated 13 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway, so it’s thirsty. 

The front seats have incredibly comfortable zero-gravity seats. The second and third-row are also spacious and comfortable. There seems to be enough room for the whole family.

But the infotainment system and wireless charging pad seemed to be challenging to connect. The system may be fussy, or there could have been some user error. 

The power-folding third-row seat is pretty convenient. However, Car and Driver noted that the seats fold at the pace of a snail. The mid-level SL trim gets a 13-speaker Bose Audio system too. 

It seems like the Nissan Armada Platinum trim only adds a little extra comfort. The base model comes well equipped with comfort features and plenty of tech. The 22-inch tires will make those who like to sit higher happier with the Platinum, though.