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:

• 

  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!

• 

  Love It - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By Going Places - April 20 - 4:53 pm

  This is a wonderful ride, could not imagine driving anything else. Will continue to look for nissan products in the future.

• 

  next generation suv - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By sese23 - April 2 - 2:00 am

  the nissan armada le suv is a very strong and capable truck both on the highway and oof road.. the 305 hp engine is smooth and quiet even in high speeds..the 18 in tires makes it stand alone with the rest of its class.

• 

  Moes Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Mozell Cooper - March 27 - 1:10 am

  I love my Armada. It turns many heads, my family can ride with joy relaxing in comfort.

• 

  Stump Puller - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By rshe - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Have had mine about 2 weeks now and love to drive it, when I can get it away from the wife. So far we have had a squeak in the overhead console (intermittent), car came with the tires overinflated by about 10lbs each and finally I popped the hood for the first time and found the oil dipstick sticking out about 2 inches.. Mainly minor QC issues that should have either been picked uo at the plant or the dealer. All in all, you have to love the power and handling on this beast.

• 

  Amazing Ride - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By Dara - March 18 - 6:50 am

  We purchased this car because both my husband and I are 64 and we have a baby who needs to be seated in the center. This is the only car that allows us both leg and head room and PLENTY of room for other passengers to sit and be comfy. We have our seats all the way back and still have plenty of room in the second row. We also love the front sensors and the rear view camera, nav system and the new touch panel display radio system. The hatch and third row move with the push of a button and the ride is smoother then a Cadi without a doubt! You will LOVE this car.

• 

  Our Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Armada 04 Larry - March 16 - 10:00 am

  We have driven over 14,000 miles and I really like the driveing and handle, loads of power and it has a nice feel to the transmition shift points. Now for the problems: the major problem that we have had with our truck is the BRAKES!!!! The rotors were turned and new pads at 6,000 miles and new rotors and pads at 13,000 miles. We are not speed demonds and hard braking habits either. Nissan needs to address this NOW!! Way to much SUV way to little rotor. I am waiting for the 05 to come out, If the correct the brake rotors I going to get a Titan also. Nissan has serviced the problems and claims

• 

  2008 SE Armada - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By Dennis - March 15 - 8:10 am

  Just bought the 2008 SE Armada last week and love every driving minute. Interior is big and roomy, with lots of quality features. Exterior is bold and brawny, turning many heads with each passer by. Wife loves the security of transporting kids in such a safe vehicle. Previous to this purchase, we owned 2005 Pathfinder and never had a single issue.

• 

  Awesome upgrade from the Pathfinder - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By Nvious2 - March 13 - 2:50 pm

  Besides fuel economy, it is a really nice ride. Lots of room and extras. I just love the front/back sonar and the backup camera. The automatic lifting gate is a really nice touch too. This vehicle looks very professional inside and out. Looks like they thought of everything when they built the 2008 model. I wouldnt trade it for the world.

• 

  My New Armada - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By tsawife - March 3 - 6:26 am

  We love our new Armada!! We have only had it a few days but so far it is the most smooth, comfortable ride. I traded my Isuzu Ascender (which I loved by the way) and was a bit unsure that the Armada could live up to the expectations that I had. Once my husband and I, who are both very tall, sat in the middle and back seats, we were sold. It is so roomy and comfortable to ride in and to drive. It doesnt have the best gas mileage but luckily I work very close to home and all the room makes up for it. My 2 sons love that feature also, as they can each have their own row of seats with lots of room and they feel very safe riding in it. I hope we love it as much in 5 years as we do today!!