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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  Raising the Bar - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Mr.E - May 15 - 10:00 am

  Three days/three hundred fifty miles and its exceeded expectations thus far. I purchased the leather even though the reviews were not favorable. I find the seats both supportive and comfortable. I did find a small screw pushing out from the side of the seat when I purchased. This was a little unnerving but I tested the seat thoroughly and have not had a problem. Gas mileage is what I expected. The steering wheel mounted controls/wireless headsets for the stereo and DVD have made driving more pleasant. Both family and friends have been impressed with the amount of room in the 2nd row. Acceleration and braking exceeded my high expectations.

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  What is that noise? - 2007 Nissan Armada
  By rando - April 18 - 7:53 pm

  I love this suv. Ive been a loyal Nissan owner for many years now, but the armada has a couple issues. 1. When you hit a bump while turning the wheel wants to over steer, making the vehicle unstable momentarily. 2. When it is windy and there is a slight cross wind (over 20 mph) the wind comes through the door seal opposite from where the wind is coming. (dealer does not believe us no matter how many print outs of similar problems we bring in). This last trip we went on it was windy and raining and we had water dripping inside the cab. 3. Sunroof vibrates from time to time. They cant find it. 4. Interior plastic scratches way too easy

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  Armada 2004 - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Greg Navalance - March 28 - 10:00 am

  The 3 row AC vent on the ceiling broke because something hit it however it was easy to fix. Front seats are a bit hard. The Nav system is a bit cumbersome, I like Onstar better.

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  Love It! - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By KGreen - March 25 - 1:00 am

  We bought the Armada used and was very please with its condition. Its pickup is awesome and I love the space it provides for my large family.

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  Great , wish the interior was better... - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By wayyonder - February 26 - 10:00 am

  This is the first SUV for my famnily of 5...I just couldnt see myself in a minivan.... I did a lot of reasearch of this vehicle, it has somewhat paid off... I enjoy the standard safety features, not otherwise offered with its competors...

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  Best car Ive owned Period - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By garrettb - February 23 - 10:33 am

  We just sold her, Annie was her name. The kids still ask after her. What a great car. Great power, huge interior, the kids dont even come close to kicking the back of your seat. We bought used with 50K miles and I sold this car with 90K on it and never put one nickel into it other than regular oil changes, oh yeah 1 battery and thats it. It always got 12 mpg unless on a real long trip. Got 16 once. I watched a friend with an Explorer- Junk and then a Tahoe, nice but not a good as this Nissan and not nearly as spacious.

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  The Behemoth - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By JVB2000 - January 2 - 10:00 am

  After a few weeks of adjusting to a large size SUV, I can honestly say that I love my Armada. I have had all the 1st year out problems however (2 new sets of brakes & rotors in 6000 miles and the replacement of the casing for the DVD screen) but they get fixed and I move along. The turning radius of the truck is better than on any car Ive ever driven-I can get into some of the tighest spots! The pick up is there when you need it and there is more than enough room for all the strollers and groceries. Now if it didnt cost $50 a week to fill Id love it more.

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  If Only... - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By Audrey - January 1 - 6:33 am

  I have huge mixed feelings about the Nissan product. I love the styling and the power, but there is no doubt about it, my Armada is a piece of crap. It must have been built on a Friday when everyone wanted to go home. Within the 1st year of ownership, the brakes squealed horrendously, the radiator had to be replaced because it was cracked, the rearview mirrors would not adjust upward, the transmission would shift roughly, the steering would shake while braking, and the list goes on. It took 6 trips to the dealership to finally convince them the radiator needed replaced. Now, there is a loud rattle when accelerating, the car needs a front- end alignment, and Im stuck because of the economy

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  Great Value - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Bigal190 - December 13 - 10:00 am

  Compared to Sequoia, Expedition and Tahoe, the Armada has more standard features, more power, drives and handles better, and is roomier. Nicest vehicle of all the large SUVs. All of that and it is the best priced.

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  Armada - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Hvy Dee - November 1 - 4:03 pm

  I had a 03 expedition and it had numerous problems. I traded for the Beast about one year ago. I am very happy I did, the beast is fun to drive and pulls a 7800# boat much better. Over all I feel it is a better vehicle.