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 Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
By DJUecker - March 21 - 10:00 amLove it - handles well in town & on road. Excelleration great - looks good - finish good. Only complaint - rattles: in front door panels, steering column & console. Dealer working on solutions.
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Saved our lives - 2004 Nissan Armada
By E Beltz - March 21 - 10:00 amWe recently totalled our Armada on a roll off the road going over 65 mph. Not only were we quite unhurt our unseatbelted cat survived. Side airbags work. Love our Armada and will buy a second. The ride is better than our old Navigator, and the storage is superb. We tow a 32 trailer with no effort at all. It is the best riding Suv we have ever owned. Would recommend it heartily.
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195000 miles - 2006 Nissan Armada
By #195000strong - March 19 - 8:40 amGreat Vehicle all around with the exception of electronics.
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Two weeks old and I love it! - 2004 Nissan Armada
By kimmer - February 23 - 2:00 amI went from a Durango to the Armada with a little hesitation because of the Armadas size, but it was a very easy transition. The amount of storage the Armada has and the overall ability to see out of the mirrors, etc., is amazing. The stereo is fabulous and the ease of use of all the controls is great. The fold down seats (including the passengers) is also a big bonus. The Armadas ride is smooth and it is fun to drive. I would highly recommend the Armada.
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wowsers - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Dobergirl - February 18 - 10:00 amMy husband used to say I drove him crazy when I did drive, comparing me to a grandmother on Prozac. Now he tells me to take it easy! Never have I had a ride like I have in my Armada. I have found my SUV and (barring any future personality conflicts) will have one for a very long time.
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Great SUV, better than the rest - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Teamfee3 - February 11 - 10:00 amJust bought this the day before a 700 mile trip and love it. Drove it in all weather and roads including on the beach. The kids loved the rear seats which recline and have tons of leg room. 6-0" + in the front and back not a problem. The acceleration is awesome, it is a brute but rides smooth. The gas mileage is horrible but so is all the competition. Nothing its size does better but they are slower and ride rougher. The interior doesnt look like a crappy pick either. No one gets car sick in the 3rd row anymore (had a Durango). We had 3 adults in the 3rd row and it was a little tight. Tons of features on base model. Drive on and youll buy it.
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What an Incredible SUV!! - 2008 Nissan Armada
By Joe - February 8 - 4:23 amI looked around for an SUV/minivan that would provide a safe, comfortable ride for my family of 5. I narrowed down to the Infiniti QX56, the GMC Yukon Denali and the Armada. When compared side by side, there was no question... the Armada won. The legroom and comfort are incredible. The fuel economy leaves a little to be desired, but it is a huge SUV! I am 68" tall and with the drivers seat all the way back, I can easily sit behind the driver. No other vehicle found had that much rear legroom. Bells and whistles galore plus it looks great!
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Best $40K SUV on the Market! - 2005 Nissan Armada
By steve - January 29 - 11:20 pmThe power and speed are unbelievable. Interior is well-appointed. I owned a Tahoe and a Maxima, now I get the best of both in one vehicle. The way some exterior design cues are executed in the interior (like the center console) are superb. Its like driving a work of art. Definately a nice alternative to GMs sloppy fit and finish and Toyotas anemic engines! WAITING ON THE HYBRID!
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Beach blast - 2008 Nissan Armada
By clamscasino - January 19 - 11:43 pmHad a ford f-150 for 11 years ,time for a big change,bought an 08 armada. This thing is a beast so much fun to drive around in. I drive it on the beach all summer and never been stuck or had a problem. As far as roomy, I put down the back 2 rows throw my dog in the back and its like a one bedroom apt back their. As far as mpg sure beats the pick up truck.
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Armada Away - 2004 Nissan Armada
By flybaby - January 17 - 10:00 amLove this SUV. Nissan waited to come out with a large SUV and in doing so, corrected all the mistakes of the other car makers. Fun to drive. Very stable. All the conveniences youd ever want.
