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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  I have the same wind noise - 2007 Nissan Armada
  By calvin - February 25 - 8:26 pm

  I agree with the guy who has the wind noise coming through the door seal or window seal. I have taken my Armada to the dealership more than a dozen times and they say the same thing, they have no idea what it is. It is frustrating. I hear the wind more when it is cold outside or hitting a pretty good bump in the road. And he is right about the moon roof. Mine rattles and the dealership cant fix that either. Other than those issues I enjoy the truck.

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  Armada Review - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Ronus - February 12 - 2:00 am

  Excellent power, comfortable interior, good sound system. Problem with clock on radio not keeping time properly. Would like split 3rd row seating like Sequoia. Gas milage performing below rating, but SUV is still under 1000 miles. Tires were over inflated, and driving seemed smoother after adjustment to specification (35 psi). Stiff suspension makes for bumpy ride over rough road, but very smooth on highway. Fun to drive, throaty sound, size of vehicle makes it feel like you could drive through a brick wall. Bring on a snow blizzard.

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  safty - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Jim Grohn - February 8 - 10:00 am

  with such a larger vechicle as the Armada there should be side turning lamps. This vechicle also needs automatic locking doors, when the vehicle is but into gear.

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  Disappointed - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By margie - February 7 - 7:23 pm

  I changed my 2004 Suburban for a 2008 Nissan Armada (LE). My Armada is 6 months old and we are very happy with it. The only thing is that I should have paid more attention to the reviews I had read about the Armada not being stable on the road. If you drive the Armada even at 40 miles the truck loses control. The other day I got very scared because I was doing 60 on the freeway and the pavement is not smooth in some places and I just lost control, the good thing is that I had both hands on the steering wheel. At this point Im very concerned for the safety of my kids. Please test drive on not so smooth pavement!

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  Dollar by Dollar the best SUV - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By Tico - February 3 - 7:26 pm

  Great suspension and power excellent sound system easy to get in third row also third row could seat adults up to 6 tall comfortably something that others suv can not do.The rear view is very helpful.

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  2004 a bad year to buy - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By tpk - February 2 - 4:00 am

  Well my experience with this vechile still continues. The quality factor is awful compared to what nissans used to be. Trying to get nissan to buy this vehicle back or give me a new one..

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  Beware - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By ldb87 - February 1 - 10:00 am

  Now 18 K-sounds like a 15 year old cab. Worst build quality and materials I have ever seen-radio cant drown out squeaks. Brakes too small for vehicle and wet performance is horrid. Beautiful body and great engine but look elsewhere.

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  You will love it. - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By Brooklyn Born - January 17 - 3:00 pm

  This is the best full size SUV for the money. Great to drive, roomy, great looking, smooth and BIG. This vehicle really seats alot of people comfortably. Drive it and you too will love it.

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  Poor Construction - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Clesikar - January 14 - 8:40 pm

  I have had a rattle in the overhead console since day 1 of purchasing this vehicle. It has been in for repair 7 times since July without success. This vehicle is poorly constructed and cheaply made. Not worth the asking price.

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  Love my armada - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By DANA - January 12 - 7:10 am

  We love our new suv! We have took many trips in it since we bought it we have had it packed with people and luggage and had plenty of room. It is so comfortable just love the way it rides and drives. Me and my husband cant wait to drive it each time we go somewhere! It is so pretty! Thanks nissan