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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  armada - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By andrew - June 24 - 10:10 pm

  once we got into an car accident and the armada saved me and my family. and nothing even happoned to the armada. only a little scratch

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  Awesome SUV - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Shellie - June 22 - 7:33 pm

  Look if you are worried about the price of gas dont even look at this suv. That is the only downfall I can find about this Fabulous Ride. Handles smooth, no noise, no rattles, feels sturdy and the best choice we have made in a purchase since learning how to drive 30 years ago. Been through 6 cars and suvs This is top of the line! I really wanted a TrailBlazer when we started our three months of research and shopping but the Amarda LE stole my heart. I think the $41200 was well spent. We have 25000 miles on this already and we have had it for 9 months. Nissan has found the problem with the rotors and are in the process of the recall and should be perfect after that.

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  Love the 08 Armada - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By mike - June 19 - 2:13 am

  We have only owned the 2008 Armada for a couple of days, but we love it. Yes the fuel economy isnt the best, but I think it is worth it to put my children into larger safer vehicle. You could buy a smaller SUV that will get about 20 MPG as compared to the Armada (that averages 13 MPG). I drive about 15,000 miles a year and only pay about an average of 100 per month more then I would with a smaller SUV. I have a lot of room and it is very comfortable. A real head turner. Beautiful design.

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  Awesome Car! - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Ana Valdez - May 14 - 2:00 am

  I am so happy that I bought this car! It drives so smooth! I highly recommend.

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  NICE - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By BOB wilts - May 14 - 2:00 am

  Great speakers and dvd is great for the kids it is easy to handle in rain or snow or even on a sunny day fits into garage.

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  A Very Good SUV - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By matsenap - May 14 - 2:00 am

  I this one compare to my 2002 Yukon XL which I have to trade for constant problems with the engine!!!!

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  Quick SUV - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Monkei - May 9 - 2:00 am

  We needed somethig to tow 7500+ ... that left a LOT of large SUVs out of this range, this beast can do 9100. It came down between this one and the Dodge Durango, and was really no contest. It is quick, tows great, has every comfort you could ever imagine, go ahead and splurge and get the technology package you will be happy that you did.

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  armada - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By kevin - May 4 - 9:03 pm

  excellent buy for what you get. Gas mileage could improve but if you want power you got the right SUV!

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  Tow, Tow , Tow your boat. - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By Alex - April 21 - 5:06 pm

  Sold the 01 Ford F250 diesel (lots of problems). After comparing the others we bought the Armada. Nissan has the best tow and feature package in the market for the money. Towing a 6000 pound boat takes a little horsepower, and oh, does the Armada have the horsepower. I read about poor gas mileage in reviews, the Ford got 12mpg pulling the boat, the Armada gets 13mpg. Highway mileage is 20 at 70-75mph and city is 15, if you keep your foot out of it. Its comfortable, smooth, Lots of convenience features,a lot of bang for the buck. Air suspension and trans gauge is standard with tow package. Nissan has thought of just about everything, my wife LOVES her Armada, its our 5th Nissan product.

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  Awesome Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By M. Gilston - April 21 - 2:00 am

  I just want to say that Nissan has made this soccer mom of 2 boys and 2 dogs very happy! I absolutely love the look, power, size and rumble of the engine as I drive my Armada to preschool field trips and carpool line! I also love the looks I get from people eyeing the car and Im soooo happy to have a car that not only looks great, but also has power and chutzpah!