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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  I love it - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By Gala - September 19 - 9:43 pm

  The more i drive it more i love it. Of course to fill it up is around 65$ But i have big family. Two toddlers are in carseats really far from each other. This is exactly what i was looking for.In this car i fell safe and what is most important is that i feel my kids are safe. And its real fun to go to Home Depot with this car . You can load what ever you whant in it .(And it will feet) I can load my family and my sister family and a dog and every buckled and safe

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  Great family vehicle - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By srcole - September 15 - 2:00 am

  Our young family of four is really enjoying this vehicle. The DVD entertainment center is great for long trips. It has a lot of power - Im someone that loves to accelerate, and the Armada has good, very smooth, acceleration for its size. It handles very well on slick roads. The interior is unbelievable - storage is everywhere! And the second row seats have a LOT of room! It is easy to fold down the third row, and the fact it has shoulder belts in all 8 seating positions gives us a lot of flexibility in where the kids ride particularly when my wife travels with friends.

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  Value Leader - 2010 Nissan Armada
  By Scott - September 12 - 2:00 am

  With $4,500 incentive, no contest. Even 3-4 year old used large SUV couldnt compete. Rear view camera critical on large SUV and Armada is best. Best in class 3rd row comfort and cargo space. Nice interior design, despite a few rough edges. Lots of little storage, but sub-floor storage in back would help. Push-button start and proximity unlock on hatch would be nice improvements. Excellent ride quality, despite engine roar (part of its character). Worst in class gas mileage; 14mpg mixed. But, trade for excellent towing and amazing acceleration, its worth it. If you dont need off road or towing, go with a minivan; more space, more convenience, 30% cheaper. Its my 5th Nissan!

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  And the winner is ....the Nissan Armada! - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By shadowman - September 9 - 2:00 am

  This is one great vehicle with great value for your money. My friend came along just for the ride and now he is buying one too. Nissan really did its homework on this SUV and although the compitition might match it in any one or two catagories, the Armada beats them all as an overall package.

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  Bigger & Better - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Jim Stark - September 8 - 8:06 am

  After driving a very reliable 2001 Ford Expedition for 89,000 miles it was hard to make the change but then I drove a Nissan Armada. It handled so much better and had so much more power it was fun to drive. It looks bigger but handles like a smaller SUV. It gets better gas mileage and is no harder to park than the Expedition. Hopefully its resale value will also exceed my expectations.

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  Poor body /interior integrity! - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Chrysty - September 4 - 10:00 am

  The rattling/squeaking started after about 800 mi.. We now have 7500 mi. and the noise is constant - even on smooth roads. It seems to be coming from the ceiling center console. The major problem is the entire outside plastic piece that goes across the back of the vehicle that houses the 3rd brake light completely FELL OFF and was hanging by the brake light connection while driving on the freeway the other day!! Bottom line - the body integrity in this vehicle is inexcusable. According to Consumer Reports, Nissan is known for having problems in this area. I will say I am extremely happy with the Nissans performance and cargo room - supreme job here!

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  Eric Hill Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Eric Hill - August 31 - 1:06 pm

  This auto was everything we hoped it would be. Comfortable, roomy, and fairly economical for a large SUV. Its styling is an eye catcher and mechanical performance has been outstanding. Made me a true believer that Nissan is the manufacturer I will stay with for future autos.

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  My Mada - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By big0147 - August 29 - 10:00 am

  The Armada is simply the best full size SUV on the market right now. You just cant beat the options you get for the price. I looked at all of the competition ie: Expedition, Yukon, Denali, Tahoe and it simply wasnt close as far as price and performance

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  good price for performance - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By 514329 - August 29 - 10:00 am

  for an SE 4X4 w/ tow package, built 05- 04 and only 9 days in the lot for $34095.00 out the door (yes incl. tax, tax and title) would I take it, yes. I can get use to some issues but definetely cant deal w/ paying $3000.00 on my trade-in and $1000.00 above invoice + tax, tags & title on a competing manufacturer (I went to all dealership w/ this manufaturer on where I am and just cant get the deal I want cause I got use to paying invoice). cant also deal w/ driving a full size SUV w/ underpower engine.

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  My Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Jamie - August 28 - 4:56 pm

  I have only owned this vehicle for a little over a month and I really love it. The amount of space in this vehicle is amazing! Its perfect for a large family like mine! The only thing I have a hard time with is the gas.