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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  Great Truck - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By sah - July 5 - 2:53 pm

  Have owned this car since new, continue to keep this while trading/leasing others. The size, ride and functionality are incomparable and we have had minimal problems with a first year model. Highly recommend this vehicle to those considering. Do your homework. The brake concerns are to be expected for a large, heavy SUV that gets traditional auto miles. We have 65k miles and are going in for our second brake job... the first was covered. 2nd set of tires are in great shape. Compare to a Suburban/Expedition by taking a drive test... it is a hands down winner.

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  Armada Mama - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By Suezen - June 19 - 3:43 pm

  I have 5 kids and really need a large vehicle. I had a Montana for 6 years & really didnt want another minivan but I thought my options were limited to a Suburban or Expedition, neither of which excite me. We went to look at the Quest and decided that it was too small (I need 8 seats). The Armada was so cool! We test drove it overnight and fell in love. We went all out with the LE and leather seats (great for messy boys)! The gas mileage is okay because I do mostly highway driving. I figure that SUV owners are actually helping the gas situation..when the oil is finally gone, car manufacturers will have to implement the alternative fuel technology that you know they have!

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  Add this SUV to your list - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By chuntmd - June 16 - 2:00 am

  We bought this SUV for trips in and out of state. In three weeks we have put on 1600+ miles. The Armada is very comfortable and easy to drive on long trips. Will be towing w/car trailer and Jeep in April

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  Great SUV - Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Carole Ann - June 11 - 10:00 am

  After going to the Atlanta car show and seeing the Armada I had to drive it. I have test driven almost every SUV on the market and the Nissan Armada came up 1st. I travel often long distances and need a comfortable well handling vehicle and I have it with the Armada. Extremely happy with this vehicle.

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  Fairly Satisifed Armada Owner - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By krlchw - May 30 - 10:00 am

  Owned the Armada since Feb. 2004 and bought it for its towing capacity. We are towing a boat and it tows great. Problem is loud squealing brakes when they are warm. So far dealer cannot fix - says squealing is normal - I dont think so. Interior quality not up to par - 3 out of 4 window units had to be replaced. Console rattles and were still waiting for a replacement since August.

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  great SUV- horrible Service Dept @Dlrshp - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By robert - May 22 - 7:06 pm

  I have a Sequoia and just bought a new Armada. I really like this SUV. I think it rides slightly better than the Sequoia. Very comfortable and roomy. Unfortunately I have had to deal with a couple of warranty issues already. I ve owned it for only 2 weeks and I am already absolutely DISGUSTED with the Dealership and their maintenance department. It takes 2 appointments to balance a wheen properly. They have still not been able to order the right part or figure out what they are going to do to fix my A/C fan. I would give the SUV a thumbs up and give the Dealerships service Department a huge Zero (even a thumbs down would be giving them too much credit).

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  Huge,Suv - 2015 Nissan Armada
  By Marlon Morales - May 20 - 2:03 am

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  Be Careful - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By John - May 15 - 10:30 pm

  This vehicle has serious brake issues! I have an 2005 model and at 2000 miles of city driving, the wheel and pedal started to vibrate. Now with 3000 it is so bad it is embarassing to drive with friends. Nissan was just "turning" the rotors but now have developed a new brake kit however the dealers in my area are clueless when the will get the upgrade. Make sure you get an upgrade before you buy!!!!!!!!! P.S. nissan says this upgrade will work...only time will tell.

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  Pathfinder Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By bgdiner - May 10 - 10:00 am

  It is a very cool car, and even though I am only 8 years old, I hope to buy this car in a few years. Very nice, I give it 10 thumbs up. Cool

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  Best SUV - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By ASutaria - May 10 - 10:00 am

  One of the best SUVs I have ever driven. Go for it...