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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Nissan Early Armada Review - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Lairdland - November 25 - 4:13 pmI have owned a 2004 Armada SE 4wd since May, 2004. For a $40k vehicle, I would think the build quality would have been better. Also, the Armada burns up tires pretty fast, about every 35k miles. Too many times Ive had to take it to the dealer for recalls and/or warranty repairs, and recently I have had to battle Nissan to warranty a replacement of my moonroof glass and seal, as it has started leaking like a sieve. Status of this > $1k claim: pending. I really like the styling and interior layout, and the engine is powerful and smooth. However, the amount of time it has to spend in the shop is appalling.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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!!
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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!
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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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Nice SUV, Very roomy and comfortable drive - 2014 Nissan Armada
By tropo - September 8 - 9:29 amGot the truck from CarMax Nissan in MD. The truck is very comfortable to drive, and very roomy inside.
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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.
