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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Our second Armada - 2006 Nissan Armada
By Dave and Karen - October 11 - 12:00 pm#2. Our 1st Armada 04 was great until the emissions went bad (what a Nightmare dealing with Nissan NA) However we purchased another. Best SUV weve owned and weve owned them ALL. At 17+ on Highway loaded with 3 youngins and luggage you cant ask for a better vehicle. Towing capacity surpasses any other SUV on the Market. We tow both 8K lb TT and Horse Trailers. As for problems we had a first year 04 Armada and Nissan is working out the Bugs. Maintainence is Mandatory. If you invest the $$$ in this vehicle maintain it! Youll be happier in the longrun. If it breaks on a warranty item fix-it immediately. Keep records of ALL services no matter how minor. Get on the Good Side of the Service Dpt
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98 Pathfinder to 08 Armada - 2008 Nissan Armada
By Armada - September 30 - 5:46 amPut 180k miles on a Pathfinder without ever having one major issue in 10 yrs. Nissan reliability is simply amazing. More than a quarter of those miles were in 4x4 mode on dirt and snow covered roads living in Colorado. After test driving several other large SUVs, I couldnt find anything that was comparable in terms of ride and extras. The engine has good torque for driving up steep grades while carring several people and loads of ski gear. The extra leg room in the back makes for a very comfortable ride for everyone on long road trips. I plan on having this vehicle for a long time.
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LOVE MY ARMADA...LOVE IT! - 2010 Nissan Armada
By Night_nurse - September 6 - 5:46 pmMy husband and I have always had a large SUV for road trips, hauling etc. When our Expedition was stolen in September, we really didnt want to go with another Ford. We looked at the Infinity QX56 but for the price decided it wasnt worth it. We looked at the Armada and fell in love with it, better price for very similar vehicle. Just wish it had better gas mileage, but you dont buy an SUV this size for great MPGs. Absolutely no regrets, if you want a roomy, comfortably and reliable SUV with power this is definitely the one.
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2011 Nissan Armada SL - 2011 Nissan Armada
By dclark347 - September 6 - 10:00 amI did a TON of research before deciding to purchase the Armada. This truck has been everything I hoped it would be. The exterior has a beauty about it and is in a class by itself. It doesnt look like any other full- size SUV on the market. The interior is spacious and well equipped but it should be for a $40k truck. The ride is smooth and the vehicle has excellent performance with all stock equipment. My kids have a hard time opening the rear doors with the handles mounted so high but they will grow into it. The only drawback I have found is the fuel economy. Dont expect to get anything over 15 mpg with this vehicle. Its just too heavy to get anything better.
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Still better looking than the competition - 2015 Nissan Armada
By Bruce stevens - August 30 - 8:07 amBought a platinum reserve 4x4. To replace our 2005 Armada LE that has 230000 miles still looks great and is our second car. Replacing my 2001 Frontier. That frontier replaced my 1995 nissan pickup. Needless to say I have had great success with Nissan vehicles. I expect the same with the new one. If I have a problem thats why I have the extended warranty. Love all the bells and whistles. Looked at the competition and the Armada feels more luxurious. Of course the gas mileage isnt the best . I knew that before buying. I always make sure it gets the schedule maintenance and pre check before long trips. I highly recommend the Armada over any other SUV
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Nice Ride - 2008 Nissan Armada
By TitanThunder - August 30 - 1:43 amOutgrew the Pathfinder that we purchased a couple of years ago and decided to get an Armada. We purchased a loaded SE, since the LEs that we found all had the captains chair package. The Armada drives nicely, is comfortable and roomy, and gives you plenty of cargo space. Gas mileage is what it is but thats easily overlooked when you think of how versatile this SUV is. The wife loves it, the kids love it, and I really like it due to its size.
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Big Body - 2004 Nissan Armada
By rym1 - August 28 - 10:00 amMy wife and I love driving our Armada. This is our very first SUV, and we do not regret it. I would definitely recommend this vehicle to who ever is considering purchasing a new vehicle.
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My 2004 Nissan Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Robert Normandin - August 21 - 10:00 amBought new Jan 2004, have had NO problems whatsoever, handles surprising well for its size, parks easy. Very powerful, decent fuel economy, would buy another without a doubt.
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Who could ask for anything more? - 2008 Nissan Armada
By Ellis G. Sr. - August 9 - 6:20 amI purchased my Armada as a replacement family car. What a vehicle! This is the 8th Nissan Ive owned since my first in 1983 that I put 250,000 miles on with 0 problems aside from normal wear & tear. Nissan rivals any competitor in quality for less $$$. I priced a comparably equipped 08 Toyota Sequoia and literally $10,000.00 later, well you do the math. I own a 91 Toyota 4runner and I like it, thats what made me take a look at the Sequoia but for the money, I just couldnt justify purchasing it over the Armada. I think the Armada looks better as well. Excellent power, 9,000lbs towing, wonderful interior and instrumentation, roomy and very comfortable.
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Armada Rocks - 2005 Nissan Armada
By KatyNKris - August 5 - 5:26 pmI love my Armada and I would recommend it to anyone in the market. For its size it gets descent gas milage (I get about 290 miles to the tank and my sister-in-laws Tahoe gets about 220) I think for the size and power it has that is pretty good. Its nice inside and out ans also comfortable for the kids and my husband as well, plenty of feet room! If your looking for a full size SUV check out the Armadas.
