^{This content was aggregated from local dealer insights and data, using Google Gemini AI with editing by the USA TODAY Network Automotive Insights team to help car shoppers make informed decisions.}

For those who demand robust capability without compromising on luxury, the 2026 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve stands ready. This formidable SUV, available at Willis Nissan in Des Moines, is engineered to handle your biggest adventures, offering impressive towing and payload capacities that make hauling boats, campers, or equipment a seamless experience.

• Exceptional Towing Power: Command the road with a substantial 8,500 lbs towing capacity, perfect for a wide range of trailers.
• Generous Payload: With a standard payload of 1,486 lbs, you can confidently load up gear, luggage, and passengers.
• Potent Twin-Turbo V6 Engine: A 3.5L V-6 gasoline direct injection, DOHC, variable valve control, twin turbo engine delivers a commanding 425 HP, ensuring ample power for any task.
• Advanced 9-Speed Automatic Transmission: Experience smooth and efficient power delivery, optimizing performance whether you're cruising or towing.
• Dedicated Towing Features: Equipped with a Trailer Brake Controller, Trailer Sway Assist, Trailer light test, and Vehicle and trailer reverse assist with visual graphic guidance only for enhanced safety and control.
• All-Mode 4WD: The automatic full-time 4WD system provides superior traction and stability across diverse terrains and conditions.
• Luxurious & Tech-Savvy Interior: Enjoy a refined cabin with features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a Head-up display, and a Klipsch Premium Audio system, making every journey comfortable.

The heart of the 2026 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve's capability lies in its powerful 3.5L V-6 twin-turbo engine, delivering an impressive 425 HP @ 5600 RPM. Paired with a smooth 9-Speed Automatic transmission, this powertrain ensures that you have the muscle and control needed for demanding tasks. The All-Mode 4WD automatic full-time 4WD system provides confident traction, whether you're navigating city streets or tackling rugged terrain, especially when a trailer is in tow.

With a remarkable towing capacity of 8,500 lbs and a standard payload of 1,486 lbs, the Armada Platinum Reserve is built to perform. This means you can comfortably tow a variety of recreational vehicles, utility trailers, or even a small horse trailer. Features like the integrated Trailer Brake Controller, Trailer Sway Assist, and Vehicle and trailer reverse assist with visual graphic guidance only work in harmony to provide a secure and stress-free towing experience, giving you greater peace of mind on the road.

Maximizing the 2026 Nissan Armada's towing potential requires adherence to safe towing practices. Here are some essential tips:

• Know Your Limits: Always stay within the Armada's 8,500 lbs towing capacity and 1,486 lbs payload. Factor in the weight of the trailer itself, its cargo, and the weight of passengers and cargo inside your Armada.
• Proper Weight Distribution: Ensure your trailer's tongue weight is appropriate (typically 10-15% of the total trailer weight) to maintain stability. Use a weight-distributing hitch for heavier loads.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Before every tow, check your trailer lights (easily done with the Armada's Trailer light test feature), tire pressure on both the Armada and the trailer, brake fluid, and hitch connection.
• Adjust Driving Habits: Allow for longer braking distances, accelerate gradually, and take wider turns. The Armada's Brake assist system and 4-wheel antilock (ABS) brakes provide excellent stopping power, but extra caution is always advised with a trailer.
• Utilize Technology: Engage the Trailer Sway Assist to help mitigate trailer sway in windy conditions or during sudden maneuvers. The Vehicle and trailer reverse assist with visual graphic guidance only is invaluable for precise backing.
• Recommended Trailer Sizes: With its 8,500 lbs capacity, the 2026 Nissan Armada is well-suited for:
  • Medium to large travel trailers (up to 30 feet, depending on weight)
  • Boat trailers (for most recreational boats, including pontoon boats and ski boats)
  • Utility trailers with ATVs, motorcycles, or landscaping equipment
  • Small to medium enclosed cargo trailers

Beyond its brute strength, the 2026 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve offers a cabin designed for comfort and connectivity. Features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smart device wireless mirroring keep you connected, while the Head-up display projects vital information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. The 3D Around View Monitor (Full 3D Rotation) and Invisible Hood View ground view camera offer unparalleled visibility, especially useful when maneuvering with a trailer. Enjoy the luxury of ventilated and heated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel, making long journeys a pleasure.

The 2026 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve is packed with advanced safety features designed to protect you and your cargo. Intelligent Forward Collision Warning w/Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection (P-AEB), and Intelligent Lane Intervention (I-LI) work to prevent accidents. Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention (I-BSI) and Rear Automatic Braking (RAB) enhance awareness around the vehicle, critical when towing. With 9 airbags, including front center and knee airbags, and a robust electronic stability control system, the Armada provides a secure environment for every journey.

• Engine: 3.5L V-6 twin turbo, 425 HP
• Transmission: 9-Speed Automatic
• Drive Type: 4x4 (All-Mode 4WD)
• Towing Capacity: 8,500 lbs
• Standard Payload: 1,486 lbs
• Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined): 16/19/17 MPG
• Exterior Color: Black
• Interior Color: Charcoal

Ready to experience the ultimate blend of power, luxury, and capability? The 2026 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve is for sale now at Willis Nissan in Des Moines. Our team is eager to demonstrate its impressive towing and payload features and help you find the perfect SUV for your needs. Visit us today at 4770 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines, or call us at (888) 801-7447 to schedule your test drive. Discover why the 2026 Nissan Armada is the ideal partner for your next adventure!

Written for Willis Nissan, by the USA TODAY Network Automotive Insights team, in collaboration with Vehicles for Sale near Des Moines