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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  Traded in an 07 Tundra for the Armada - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By Armada08 - July 31 - 1:56 pm

  We 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 pm

  This 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 am

  So 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

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  Better than I thought it could be - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Djtallmo - June 23 - 9:10 am

  I purchased a used Armada last month and have been impressed by the solidness of the vehicle thus far. In my 8500 miles of driving the vehicle, there have been no problems except for a wear mark on the drivers armrest. Navigation, homelink, DVD, transmission and engine have functioned seamlessly. The blindspots are not as large as I thought with the help of the side mirrors possioned properly. I am 6-10" and fit quite well comparred to the Toyota and Ford equalls. No regrets in purchasing the Armada and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

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  Nice Secret - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Happy Camper - June 14 - 10:26 am

  Bought this 05 model in 12/05 preowned with 16K miles, in immaculate condition. No brake problems at all. We have had it 18 months and it now has 39,500 miles. It literally has never been in the shop, and it still drives perfect. Wifes daily car and she loves it. I am impressed every time I drive it, to the point that I want one also. Were considering a new 08 with all the extra options (roof, 4X4, DVD, nav). I loaded it with 4 adults, 2 kids, too much luggage, roof luggage rack, trailer hitch rack and drove it 80+ mph on West Texas Interstates for 1,200+ miles round trip to NM. It surprised me how smooth, powerful, and stable it was. Still got 17.3 mpg

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  LEMON - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Matt Smith - June 5 - 8:36 pm

  Within 400 miles my Armada was back at the dealers. First to have the oil pump changed (be aware that Nissans arrogant business model means that they dont have spares available yet and you will have a long wait), and there it remained when they discovered that they needed to replace the whole engine. Its now been in the garage for 30 days. I will never drive this car again. It is a LEMON.

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  Excellent Truck - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Mike2003 - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Just traded in my old Sequoia because it just could not handle my 28ft boat. Guess what, this baby pulls it like a dream. Ive heard some people dont like the rear of this truck, but when you see it up close this truck looks great, and it has very good interior materials and finishing, unlike American trucks.

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  Great Vehicle - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Kenyadrick Wallace - May 24 - 2:00 pm

  I love it so much. It has enough space. The only thing is the SE should have fog lights. That would bring them out also. Other than that the Armadas are Great!!!!!!!!!

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  New Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By BDB - May 22 - 2:00 am

  Former Tahoe owner -- 200,000 miles on a 1997. Test drove Yukon/Tahoe, Suburban, Lincoln Navigator. Although I thought I wanted a GMC -- I fell in love with performance, safety and new look of Armada. 1,000 miles in first 5 days -- Las Vegas -- Phoenix and back. Have nothing but praise for the handling and engine performance.

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  BEATS THE DOORS OFF THE SUBURBAN - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By SCOTT F - May 22 - 2:00 am

  WHAT A GREAT VEHICLE I LOVE IT! IT HAS GUTS AND DRIVES DOWN THE ROAD LIKE A DREAM. I CAN TOW MY BOAT AND IT STILL HAS POWER TO MAKE IT UP THE HILLS. GREAT JOB NISSAN YOU GOT ME. GAS MILEAGE IS NOTHING TO WRITE HOME ABOUT BUT I DIDNT BUY IT FOR ECONOMY REASONS. BEFORE YOU BUY YOU SHOULD AT LEAST DRIVE ONE.