2021 Nissan Armada & 2021 Nissan Kicks

Nissan has officially taken the wraps off revamps at both the large and small ends of their lineup. For 2021, the full-size Armada and subcompact Kicks utilities arrive with a freshened appearance and a host of improvements. The three-row 2021 Armada has an updated appearance, largely in the front, with a reshaped and smoother grille, standard LED headlights, as well as LED running lights. Inside, there is a larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a new 7.0-inch instrument panel screen. Apple CarPlay is now supported as well. The center console is reshaped for better utility. Power continues to be from a 5.6-liter V8, but ratings are upped to 400-horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. Trailer two rating is the same at 8,500 pounds, but some models will now be available with a trailer brake controller as well as trailer sway control. Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 is now standard on all trims.

The diminutive 2021 Kicks, already previewed here last week, also undergoes a midcycle freshening to its appearance, but also ups standard features. The styling changes include a much larger and bolder grille, LED headlights, and some minor doctoring to the sheet-metal . There is also a new LED lightbar across the rear, bookended by reworked taillamps. A lot more looks fresher inside including the seats, most trim panels, and the center console area. More importantly, technology gets a nice upgrade with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a larger optional center touch screen. Kicks power continues to come from a 1.6-liter I4. Both Armada and Kicks are due to arrive at dealers shortly.