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 - 2004 Nissan Armada
By cgolden - July 22 - 10:00 amI love this vehicle!! I look forward to driving it every single day! I highly recommend it if you want a roomy SUV.
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It makes car owner experience great again - 2017 Nissan Armada
By LH in Pensacola - July 17 - 7:35 amI bought this SUV in Oct 2016, and its too new to give an accurate review. So far, its a great full size SUV. My wife loves it (technically, its hers). I took it back to the dealer a few days later for the wheel alignment because the steering wheel was off center. The dealer didnt have the wheel specs on 2017 model, but the Technician was able to use the 2016 Infinity QX80 specs to align the wheels. It has plenty of power and drinks lots of gas, but it has very nice safety features for the platinum package. I live in Pensacola, FL, but I bought the SUV in Mobile AL. We wanted to buy it locally, but the Nissan Dealership in Pensacola swapped the 2nd row captain seats to the bench seat after we agreed on the price. Good thing, I asked to see the SUV before I was going to sign the final paperwork. I went Mobile and got everything I wanted in the vehicle w/ the captain seats for $1300 less.
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First Nissan - 2006 Nissan Armada
By Rick - July 15 - 2:16 amMy wife and I were looking to trade in our Chevy Venture for a full size SUV. My first thought was ok now I get my Tahoe, NOT, after I drove the Armada there was no way I was getting a Tahoe. This thing is great, extreme comfort, powerful, and ROOM to spare. I love it.
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This is a lemon - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Moberly - July 11 - 7:50 pmI have had to service this vehicle 8 times in 6 months. It leaked transmission fluids, needed a new windshield, the brakes have been replaced 3 times and I have had to replace 6 interior plasic pieces. I tell everyone not to buy one. This car is all style and no substance. I have a 7 year old Lexus LX470 that drives better, is more reliable and has 110K miles. Nissan of America will not do anything to support this hunk o junk. Scott
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Love my Army... - 2005 Nissan Armada
By Ayespye - July 10 - 8:10 pmIve only had this beast for 2 months but its perhaps the best ride Ive ever owned. I got rid of my Volvo S80 in favor of the Armada...and the difference is astounding. The ride in my Armada is soooo much smoother, I was surprised. The room in the back seat is PHENOMENAL! The raw power at any speed over 15mph is a fun kick in the rear. Ive had it over 90 a couple of times and have never noticed the before mentioned "shake" in the steering wheel. Im not looking forward to replacing the tires when the day comes either.
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First and Last Nissan - 2005 Nissan Armada
By No More Nissan - July 3 - 10:00 amI was advised not to purchase this vehicle, but bought one anyway. Big mistake. Has been back to dealership six times for repair. Brakes twice, both front windows, door latches, defective tire, and lots of rattles! Definitely doesnt like cold weather. Also, very dissapointed in Nissan, as they are not willing to stand behind their product. Only good thing is the look and the loads of room inside.
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armada - 2005 Nissan Armada
By andrew - June 24 - 10:10 pmonce 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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Good Buy - 2006 Nissan Armada
By Rodney - June 24 - 1:10 pmWe purchased the Armada on 4/29/06. I test drove the car and I felt very comfortable in the seat.(510" 290 lbs.) I love all of the bells and whistles. This car is very loaded with nav system, DVD, back-up sensors and seat memory. I have to issues: gas mileage. It is very poor. The other is the position of the inside door handle. It is too low.
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Awesome SUV - 2005 Nissan Armada
By Shellie - June 22 - 7:33 pmLook 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 amWe 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.
