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 but - Beware of Brakes - 2005 Nissan Armada
By Kent - May 12 - 9:43 amWe bought this SUV the day before Houston was in full evac for Hurricane Rita. It got us out of town and all the way to Dallas without a fuel stop, which was good since there was no fuel! We love the truck and have since moved to Denver. Wish we had 4WD now, but will have to make the best of it. Beware, as many other posts have noted, the rotors will warp at 5K miles. Nissan will fix it, but it is a problem. If youre buying a new 05, make them fix it before delivery. Other than that, it is a fine truck.
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36000 mile ownership experience - 2006 Nissan Armada
By rmf - May 7 - 7:20 amInterior room is excellent. Engine handles all loads, tows boat like its not even there. Great comfort for trips. Design/functionality issues - seat belt retraction system barely works, constantly asking passengers to make sure belts/buckles are not slammed in doors. Steering wheel controls need lighting. Seat belt latch, front seats are way down between seat and console under armrests, difficult to buckle. Stereo is poor for a $38k vehicle! Quality issues - hatch window leaking, replaced. Power mirrors stopped working, replaced twice. Front seat came unstitched 6k mi., replaced. Front windows rattle, could not solve! Exhaust replaced 35k, rotted out. Air leaks front windows, new gaskets.
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My Biggest Nissan Ever! - 2008 Nissan Armada
By Jim - May 6 - 11:00 amWe have purchased Nissans exclusively since the 1980s. Always reliable and sporty. Now that we have three young children, we found are 7 passenger 2005 Pathfinder to be too small for our needs. With gas at the time of purchase hovering around $2.80 a gallon, I was concerned about making the move to the Armada. Well, after a year, we couldnt be happier with our Armada. I was always drawn to the muscular exterior styling, but was never keen on the interior. Nissan did a great job with the interior makeover of the 2008 Armada. The quality of the leather seats is improved, the layout is logical, and all of the buttons feel solid. The information screen is really helpful. And we average 15mpg!
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Bought first car sold in illinois - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Drivin in paradise - April 24 - 5:46 amI purchased the first Armada in Illinois and have experienced the "first-run syndrome". After fighting with my dealership over floormats, Nissan stepped in and got me the mats gratis. Nissan has a serious issue with the rotors on this "beast" as they warp every 20K- 25K miles. Nissan is aware of the poor materials and is looking into a new manufacturer. Nissan is gladly replacing all rotors and pads when they warp due to the excessive heat produced by the large vehicle. Overall I enjoy the Armada and am happy with it. I cant complain about gas milage since I was aware the Full size SUVs have poor MPG. However..we actually got 24MPG driving to Naples, FL this winter!!!
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Much Better Now!! - 2005 Nissan Armada
By gaptozak - April 12 - 5:10 pmI just traded in my 2004 Nissan Armada for the 2005 Model.Its like night and day.The 2005 has a considerable improvement with the interior build quality. The ride is cushier, softer than the brash and hash 2004 model. Interior cabin is a whole lot quieter, the engine roar has been deadened. Better overall interior materials and lay out. Love the rear camera view when backing up or out.This Vehicle is the best full size SUV in its class. Nissan has listened and have delivered.
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Very Satisfied w/ Fancy New Armada - 2010 Nissan Armada
By whtbst - March 9 - 10:00 amRides like a dream, absorbs everything and handles nimbly for such a big ride. Love the rugged appearance, the big 20" wheels, the amenities and value for the price. Titanium version has enough goodies for our family while not over-the-top. Amazing leg room, I am 64" 200lbs and have plenty of room in the front or rear, but the third row is far too tight for someone my size. Bose stereo is phenomenal. Love the rear-view camera, Bluetooth, XM, etc. For a vehicle at $46,650 sticker, I was surprised it did not come with memory seating (disappointing because I often switch rides with my wife), power folding side mirrors, and side markers. Paid $36,699, but after tax and fees paid $39,950.
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Outdoes GM, from a loyal chev owner - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Armada - March 2 - 2:16 pmThis vehicle has outdone my expectations on all facets. I pull a 32 foot travel trailer with ease, and struggled with the suburban. Dealership was more knowledgable and willing to work with me to get a match on vehicle. Will never go back to the GM line.
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Nissan has done it. Lookout toyota&chevy - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Chris Hansen - February 14 - 8:16 amWe have loved our Nissan Armada. It has tons of room, tons of power, and drives excellent. We have had the typical front brake problem, but Nissan has a remedy for that problem. Some rattles, but the Dealer is working those out. Best big SUV on the Market. More power than TAHOE & SEQUOIA.
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Happy Owner - 2005 Nissan Armada
By Tony C - January 27 - 5:46 amGreat Family Vehicle, everyone fits + more. Meets all of my needs, MPG is about 16-17mpg. But, its a full size SUV
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mah nissan - 2006 Nissan Armada
By troy - October 25 - 12:16 amreally really , nice powerful v8 nice looking turn head nice powerful growl lol ~1~
