2016 Chicago Auto Show: 2017 Nissan Armada

The Chicago Auto Show has always been ground zero for new trucks and SUVs.

Obviously, new models of cars will see the light of day for the first time in the Windy City’s February chill, and the similar major shows in Los Angeles, Detroit and New York will roll out their own shares of trucks and SUVs. But, Chicago focuses heavily on bigger rides.

So, it seemed a natural move for Nissan to unpack its redesigned Armada SUV during these introductory press days here at McCormick Place.

Also: NAIAS 2016: 2017 Jeep Wrangler Will Offer Pickup Version

The biggest SUV in Nissan’s line, the Armada isn’t getting any smaller in this latest incarnation — and that might be a sign of things to come in the automotive industry’s immediate future.

Gas prices are way down, and the sales of SUVs and trucks are running laps around cars these days. So, the automakers aren’t back down off of big vehicles with deep gas tanks. That’s terrible news for the greenies out there as hybrids are running for the trees.

In keeping with that theme, the 2017 Armada does away with the gasping V6 kicked in the arse with a turbocharger. This Nissan brute uses a 5.6 liter V8 putting out 390 horsepower and an 8,500 pound towing capacity. 

The transmission gets bigger, bumping up from a five speed to a seven, with buyers being able to choose between rear or four-wheel drive options.

As for fuel economy numbers…Who cares? That’s the theme of these new vehicles so far.

I’ll be keeping my eye on the roll-outs through Friday to see if the minds between new SUV and truck debuts are also betting on moderate gas prices continuing and demand staying high.