In May, Nissan announced its global transformation plan called Nissan NEXT.

As part of the extensive business, cultural and product plan, the company promised 10 new vehicle reveals in 20 months – with six new vehicles in Canadian showrooms by the end of 2021.

Nissan took a big step forward toward delivering that goal with the preview of the 2021 Armada full-size SUV and 2021 Kicks compact crossover. As a result, a full 80 percent of Nissan’s SUV/crossover lineup will be new or renewed in the calendar year 2021.

The new 2021 Armada goes on sale in January, followed by the Kicks in February.

The 2021 Nissan Armada

The new Armada is highlighted by a rugged new exterior design and a new premium interior. A long list of safety features allows peace of mind for the adventurous family, while standard technology features such as a new screen in class3 12.3-inch colour touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Wi-Fi hotspot keep the family connected to the outside world. The 2021 Armada also offers standard 400 horsepower and standard 8,500 lbs. maximum towing capacity.

The 2021 Armada features a redesigned exterior that is more squared and chiselled than the previous design. Major styling enhancements include a new grille, hood, front fenders, front and rear bumpers, new LED headlights and taillights and one new exterior colour. It is also the first vehicle to carry the new Nissan logo/badge, found on the Armada front, back, wheels and steering wheel.

Every 2021 Armada comes with a 5.6-litre Endurance V8 with standard 400 horsepower, a refined 7-speed automatic transmission, front and rear independent double-wishbone suspension with rear leveller, large 4-wheel vented disc brakes and standard All-Mode 4WD system. For 2021, Armada adds a standard Trailer Brake Controller with a tow hitch receiver; Trailer Sway Control is also standard.

The 2021 Armada is available in a choice of two grade levels – SL and Platinum – and in a 4×4 drive configuration.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks

For 2021, Kicks ups its desirability factor with enhanced exterior and interior styling.

Kicks’ energetic styling and youthful design now features a new Double V-motion front grille, bumper, LED headlights and LED fog lights, along with a new rear bumper, LED taillights, and new wheel designs. There are three new, vibrant exterior colours (seven total) and three new two-tone paint schemes (five total) available, allowing for even more personalization.

Inside, the 2021 Kicks offers a smart and stylish interior with a new, available customizable 8-inch touchscreen display, additional USB ports, new seat materials and more premium finishers – along with an available new centre console with armrest, heated seats and steering wheel and more.

Technology on the 2021 Kicks has been upgraded with Intelligent Cruise Control, which helps reduce driver fatigue and stress. Nissan Safety Shield 360 is again standard on all grade levels.

Every 2021 Kicks comes with a standard 1.6-litre DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine rated at 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft. of torque. Combined with a smooth, fuel-efficient Xtronic transmission, fuel economy is rated at 31 mpg city, 36 mpg highway and 33 mpg combined (EPA). Canadian fuel economy ratings will be provided at a later date.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks is offered in three well-equipped front-wheel-drive models – Kicks S, Kicks SV and Kicks SR.