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:
Showing 91 through 100 of 662.00-
2007 Armada - 2007 Nissan Armada
By J.W. Frazier - October 14 - 12:46 amThis is the second Armada I have purchased since 2005. My overall experience has been very rewarding. The vehicle displays very satisfying levels of control and power. Acceleration is awesome for a vehicle of this size. Fit and finish is first rate. Interior noise level is acceptable. Very good sound system. Brake issues appear to have been resolved.
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nice suv - 2004 Nissan Armada
By martinez - September 27 - 2:00 amI took this vihicle to mexico to the toghest roads and mountains and the experience I had was incredible. this suv has evrything you need its 305 horses and the powerful torque is all you need for wherever adventure you may have.
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"OH WHAT A FEELING" - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Whatsup - September 27 - 2:00 amNICE NEW STYLE FOR SPORT "U" GREAT POWER AND IN A WORLD WERE NOBODY SEES YOU THEY WILL SEE YOU WHEN YOU DRIVE THIS MONSTER GET JOB NISSAN THIS IS THE MOTHER OF ALL SPORT "U" R
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Impressed by quality - 2005 Nissan Armada
By JOMAMA - September 24 - 6:23 amThe vehicle was impressive upon purchasing however i experienced brake problems after 7500 miles. The local dealer (nissan east in monroeville pa) corrected the problem and no further isuues were experienced
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Girly suv to manly suv - 2005 Nissan Armada
By LEIZ - September 19 - 8:40 amHusband was too tall for the Lexus RX300, so we traded it for the Armada. Took some time to get use to, but I am finally loving this BEAST. Its a big SUV that deserves a bow. It handles well and has a lot of power when I need it. Nav needs help, did send me to the wrong location. It carries all of my shopping with no problems, along w/ husband, toddler and dog in tow. I get compliments on this SUV everywhere I go. I feel safe, but I pay for the safety and the looks at the pump.. This beast is always hungry for more gas, what SUV isnt? Overall, I am very happy with our purchase. You get alot for what you pay on this SUV.
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The New Armada is a Beast!! In a Good Way!!! - 2017 Nissan Armada
By Tolson - September 9 - 8:20 amTows my 7,000 boat and gear w no problems. Solid and smooth. The self leveling rear end works great. The safety nannies are awesome. The AC is awesome in the 110 plus degree heat in Phoenix. I shopped the GMC Yukon Denali against this new Armada. Its a much better value than the Denali. After test driving 3 new Denalis and finding vibration in all 3 I switched to looking at this new Armada.. The main reasons I purchased the Armada are 1) better value for the money 2) No vibrations, smooth, powerful and really tight - no rattles/noises 3) Nice looking and different than the typical GM or Ford form factors 4) 9+ inches ground clearance 5) All the safety technology 6) like the rear heater/AC venting in the back better....
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Nissan Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
By CarolinaBoi - August 15 - 2:00 amILOVE this car.Its a large SUV and it handles likes it is small. It sticks to the road and it snaps your neck at the start. Nissan needs to do a better job with color choices and option packages. You cant find a car with everything you want in it, Nor can you buy the option for later installation! The controls on the steering wheel can not be seen in the dark...you better memorize them! It is strange that in the LE version you cant get dual auto climate control. Other then those small irratants, This is ONE FINE CAR that you wont reget buying. The engine growls better then any American V-8. Tri-Cities Nissan in Johnson City TN is the place to buy one.
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Traded in an 07 Tundra for the Armada - 2008 Nissan Armada
By Armada08 - July 31 - 1:56 pmWe needed something to tow our boat and 6 months ago we picked up an 07 5.7l Tundra CM. Overall the Tundra was a good truck, but i was disapointed with it and just didnt like driving it. We looked at the new Sequoia but I was again disapointed with the bland styling and plastic Tundra interior :(. We happened to stumble into the Nissan dealer and i was very surprised with the Infiniti-like interior in the 08 Armada. We LOVE our new Armada... rides great, tons of towing power, comfy, and lots of great technology.
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Great Vehicle to Own - 2006 Nissan Armada
By Harry Blue - July 20 - 11:03 pmThis is a GREAT SUV to own with lots of room and storage space, with HORSE PWR, & 3 row seating for a growing family
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Nissan Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
By t squared - June 27 - 2:00 amSo far this has been a great vehicle. We have a family of five including one six footer. The second row seating was the first place I looked on every Suv that I considered. The hip and shoulder room made a big difference in how comfortable the three kids were in the back seat. The ride has been very comfortable for our family but we do like the tighter ride the Armada gives us. The softer ride of some SUVs made the vehicle roll to much in corners and during sudden changes
