Overview & Reviews

The word "armada" usually refers to a group of large moving things. It's a fitting name for Nissan's entry in the large SUV segment, because pretty much every aspect of this beast is size L or XL. The Nissan Armada's standard 5.6-liter V8, for example, enables you to tow trailers and campers with ease. And then there's the large number of cubic feet in the Armada's cabin -- this is a very spacious SUV that's also loaded with storage areas.

The downsides are typical for this segment. Fuel mileage is poor, and the Armada's supersized dimensions can turn parking into a frustrating ordeal. If brute force isn't a top priority for you, we'd recommend looking at three-row crossover SUVs, which offer superior fuel economy and maneuverability. But if you need a rig that hauls like a gorilla on steroids, the Armada's got you covered.

Current Nissan Armada
The Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV that seats up to eight passengers in its three standard rows. Buyers can choose from three trim levels: SV, SL and Platinum.

The base SV won't leave you wanting, offering side-step rails, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth and USB connectivity. The SL trim adds 20-inch wheels, an auto-leveling rear suspension, leather upholstery, Bose audio, a power-folding third row and a power liftgate. The Platinum trim includes front parking sensors, a sunroof, a 7-inch touchscreen interface, a rear-seat entertainment system and a navigation system with music storage. Note that the Platinum can be specified with second-row captain's chairs in place of the standard three-passenger bench, dropping passenger capacity to seven.

All Armadas are equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission and a 5.6-liter V8 that cranks out 317 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive is the default, with four-wheel drive (including low-range gearing) optional across the board. The Armada's tow rating is a healthy 9,100 pounds, although those 317 horses make for a modest herd by modern V8 standards. Not surprisingly, they're also thirsty -- overall fuel economy maxes out at around 15 mpg.

The Armada's cabin is quite classy, with intuitive controls that are familiar from vehicles throughout the Nissan/Infiniti family. Head- and legroom are excellent in the first two seating rows. The third row offers high, stadium-style seating with adequate legroom, but short seat bottoms make this row one for the kids. Storage space is plentiful, with a generous supply of handy bins and nooks.

In our reviews, we've noted that the Nissan Armada's V8 provides brisk acceleration, but the truck's heft quickly reveals itself in cornering maneuvers and braking. Still, the Armada offers a smooth ride and a pleasant driving experience, both on the highway and around town.

Used Nissan Armada Models
The current-generation Armada debuted for the 2004 model year. It was initially named the Pathfinder Armada, but Nissan dropped the Pathfinder connection for the Armada's second year of production. There were two primary trim levels: SE and LE. The SE Off-Road package, offered from 2004-06, toughened things up with features like skid plates, a lower final-drive ratio and all-terrain tires.

The 2008 model year saw minor exterior changes and a major interior overhaul; prior to that, the Armada's dash resembled a silver plastic boom box. New technology features like keyless ignition, Bluetooth and a hard-drive-based navigation system also appeared for '08. The LE trim level was supplanted by the Titanium and Platinum trims for 2010, while the SE received standard front side airbags.

The current trim level trio -- SV, SL and Platinum -- arrived for the 2011 model year. The SL upgraded to a standard power liftgate for 2012, while the Platinum's entertainment system received standard dual 7-inch monitors for 2013.

User Reviews:

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  Finally Got My Wife in a Full-Size SUV - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By zluver - December 14 - 6:33 pm

  Wife had always been opposed to full- size SUVs until we test drove an Armada while getting our 350-Z serviced. A week later, we were driving in a red brawn SE w/ the tow and DVD packages. Invoice - $3K + TTL. Were sold on Nissan ride quality.

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  Very pleased! - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By Northern Cal buyer - December 2 - 4:50 pm

  Any review from a buyer that states "Bad on Fuel" is suspect. If you actually purchase a vehicle like this, and then are shocked by the fuel economy AFTER the purchase, you probably deserve everything you get. Poor fuel economy aside (and which of the SUVs in this class dont have poor fuel economy?), this is a great SUV. Distinctive styling that sets it apart. Powerful engine. Sharp interior. Comfortable 3rd row seats that can actually be used for more than just an emergency. Tons of storage. Get this vehicle loaded with the technology package and you wont regret it. Im very satisfied.

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  So Far So Good - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Briant Bodrato - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Nice riding suv. Great sound system. Lots of Leg room and storage area. Very happy with this purchase.

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  I Cant belive I own one - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By kassi574 - November 22 - 2:00 am

  its my first day driving the car so i have so much to do then i will tell you how mch i love it.

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  awesome car - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Subin - November 16 - 8:53 am

  I just got my Nissan Armada. It is fun to drive. The V8 engine helps pull the armada 0 - 60 in less then 7.0 sec. It has so much power that your head jukes back everytime you give it gas. The motor has an amazing roar too it. It takes the snow like nothing. It is flawless.

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  I like it - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By squish - November 16 - 2:00 am

  It has many conveniences like the auto rear open door, programable seats, sun roof, DVD, and backing sensors. I love how it drives and feel very comfortable in it. The seat configuration is perfect for our family with all three having their own space. The second row side seats tumble forward easily allowing the passenger in the theater seating in the third row easy access. I have ridden there very comfortably myself. Yes, the gas mileage is dismal but Im not sure for the size of vehicle I felt I needed I could do much better. The towing capacity is awesome. We pull a camper so towing was a priority as well as all the rest.

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  Great vehicle - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By jenarends - November 8 - 9:30 pm

  My family and I are so glad we switch from our Suburban and Blazer to the Armada. We love it.

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  2017 Platinum Armada - 2017 Nissan Armada
  By Geoff Ellison - November 7 - 9:29 pm

  Its expensive.

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  As Good As it Gets - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By C3plus1 - November 5 - 10:00 am

  Great looking SUV!! Love the interior design and awesome handling for a big SUV. Hard to outgrow this one. Test drove just about every other big SUV out there and the Armada simply excelled in all aspects. The V8 has enough horsepower to accomodate any task you have in mind.

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  Love this suv - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By rebecca - October 18 - 9:53 am

  Love this suv. Love the rear camera which has saved me. We have had no problems. I like that the lift gate in the back can open automatically which helps a lot with new baby and groceries. Love the fact that the 3rd row seats fold down flat. There is so much room. Love the gear shift in the middle instead of on the steering wheel. Feel the my family is very safe with the curtain side airbags. Love the stereo/6dsic cd changer. It drives well and has great pick up. Its a bit of a bumpy ride on these pot holed roads we have, but I didnt buy a luxury car! I wish big SUVs got better gas mileage but it is the price I have to pay for more room inside!