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 121 through 130 of 662.00-
So far soooo goooood - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Tony G - January 10 - 8:26 amSo far, so good! Smooth ride, excellent acceleration, lots of body roll when turning, but what do u expect, its a BIG SUV. Brakes a little slow. Very Happy with this truck!
-
great vechicle - 2004 Nissan Armada
By ricardo - January 10 - 3:50 amone of the best vehicles ive ever purchased, great ride, handling and comfort for (7) adults Large amount of interior storage, with easy access and ease of folding seats which dont have to be removed
-
Armarda - 2004 Nissan Armada
By armada1 - January 3 - 10:00 amLove the Armada, powerful and fun to drive. Fuel mileage has been excellent for this type of vehicle. Ride is very comfortable and the Armada has exceeded all expectations.
-
Fully Decked Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
By mycamel - December 22 - 10:00 amWe looked at all of the large luxuary SUVs and drove the ones we liked. All of them had limited leg room for rear passengers. We first saw the Armada going down the street in downtown Las Vegas. We both did a double take and loved the styling. Within days of returning home, we test drove and bought the Armada. Going from a nice leather mini van to a V8 loaded SUV is a great feeling. Tonight we went to dinner, cranked the Bose, opened the moonroof and grinned all the way back home. The only interuption was the sweet voice of the GPS nav system telling us how to get back home. With 1000 miles on the OD, it might be too early to judge, but we love it so far!!!!!!
-
1Quick grocery getter - 2004 Nissan Armada
By whambino - November 26 - 2:00 amWe traded a full sized conversion van for the Armada- we are used to larger vehicles. Did not want the extra expense of 4 wheel drive-thank you Nissan for a 4x2. We love the looks,comfort and all the standards that are options on other suvs. This suv handles like a sports car compared to the old van. Im sure a lot of Mustang and Camaro owners are going to be surprised when they are not pulling to far away from my suv at the stoplights.
-
08 Armada - 2008 Nissan Armada
By Alton H - November 23 - 12:13 pmThis is my second Armada (2004 and 2008), the 2008 model has major upgrades, flex-fuel is one of the best features. Front sonar for parking. Hopefully this model wont have the issues with the brakes like the 04 model did. The new design is much smoother and very eye-friendly, not like the boxy earlier version. I was asked several times for a tour, within the 1st week.
-
Armada is awesome - 2006 Nissan Armada
By Burton - November 16 - 10:16 pmWe purchased 11 months ago, and have loved the vehicle. The interior design works well for my family of six. We pull a 6500 lb. camping trailer with ease. The GPS is great, showing surprisingly rural roads. The DVD player works well also, especially since I can listen to music while driving and others can listen to movies on headphones. The vehicle is quiet, solidly built, and comfortable. The automatic liftgate and backup camera and sensor is really nice as well. We replaced a Ford Expedition which we also liked, but this has more features, and is more powerful. Our gas mileage is about the same as the Expedition. Id recommend this car to anyone.
-
Armada is a Beast! - 2004 Nissan Armada
By sikatuna - November 15 - 10:00 amWe recently bought our Armada in July 2004. In less than 3 weeks, I have put on 3000 miles traveling to Canada and Florida. This SUV has exceeded our expectatitions in every way. Have had no problems whatsoever with the truck. Having owned 2 Suburbans in the past, the Armada is hands down the better vehicle. Fit and finish as well as engine are superior with the Armada. Bought the car at a local dealership at $1800 below invoice (with the $1000 rebate). A better buy than the Sequoia. Thank you Nissan for designing a beautiful SUV!
-
05 Armada.... The Best !!! - 2005 Nissan Armada
By Ben - November 4 - 4:00 pmWe just got our Armada and I will tell you its been the best truck Ive owned thus far. Very comfortable and has plenty of room and power. I used to own a Montero and I got frustrated all the time driving it. Nissan did a good job on this one!!
-
Easy and fun to drive - 2006 Nissan Armada
By GatorFan - October 20 - 7:43 pmLove this truck. It is short people friendly....with the adjustable pedals, I can sit far back and drive cofortably. Lots of room, and 3rd row is very easy to get into and to lay flat. Lots of bells and whistles....more than the Tahoe and the Sequoia....and for a lot less money!
