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 Rocks - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By KatyNKris - August 5 - 5:26 pm

  I 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.

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  It is magic! - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By The Magic Man - July 27 - 10:00 am

  This Armada is all that and a bag of chips. The safty, Performance, and Design is right on the money. You sit high but it is not a soft ride. You dont sway side to side. The power is not like any SUV I have ever been in. From top to bottom it is a well built and Designed SUV. GOOD JOB NISSAN.

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  Nissan can do better - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By A.H - July 25 - 8:40 am

  I love my Armada and so does my wife, my complaint is the front brake system, the overhead console rattles, the quality of the interior, cheap plastic and leather, NISSAN CAN DO MUCH BETTER for the asking price. Im use to top quality workmanship and materials since I also own a lexus, I realized that this is not a lexus.

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  THIS IS AN AWESOME TRUCK - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By MARIE ROSS - July 24 - 1:03 am

  I REALLY LOVE THE NISSAN ARMADA. MY SON THAT JUST TURNED 17 IS BUYING ONE NEXT MONTH. I USE MINE FOR WORK AND FUN. THANK YOU NISSAN FOR PUTTING OUT A GREAT AND RELIABLE TRUCK.

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  Wonderful Armada!! - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By CherylinTexas - July 24 - 12:36 am

  This is my second Armada, LOVE IT! Fun to drive, easily tows my trailer, enough room for my extra tall husband and growing kids! I hope to have my 2007 soon. I drive the wheels of this SUV and it is my favorite vehicle I have ever owned, and I have owned a lot!

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  HAPPY BUYER - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By TEDDY S - July 21 - 2:00 am

  AFTER OWNING 6 SUV, THIS SUV HAS THE BEST START OF BEING ONE OF THE BETTER ONES. HOPE I WILL FEEL THE SAME 3 YEARS FROM NOW ?

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  Sweet motor!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By maxim1010 - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Happy so far, excellent ride, absolutely incrediably motor/drivetrain. Coming off Ford F150 this thing makes ford looks like POS. Tons of room

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  Armada Monster - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By MoveJ - July 21 - 2:00 am

  This SUV is everything you would need or want. It is a Monster on the road and in the snow. I can get past the fuel economy and just enjoy the ride and many safety features. What a vehicle

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  The new ride - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Jennifer - July 19 - 3:23 pm

  I love my new armada! I do not have any complaints other than the fuel economy! Everything else about it is wonderful. I compared it to the Toyota Sequoia and I am SOOOOOOO glad I made the decision to go with the nissan!

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  I dont know what you want. - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By JDaskal - July 10 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this vehicle two weeks ago and am disappointed with the following; 1. The head rests are not adjustable 2. when relined the passenger seat is to long to lay comfortably during a trip. 3. the passenger side charger socket is in the way of the top cup holder. 4. Of course the MPG really leaves a lot to be desired. 5. The steering is a little tight, I would prefer it somewhat lighter.