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:
Showing 361 through 370 of 662.00-
Awesome SUV - 2004 Nissan Armada
By sache302 - May 20 - 10:00 amLove it!
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armada - 2005 Nissan Armada
By phong le - May 12 - 6:33 amSo far based on test driving the Armada versus others SUV. I found that the Armada has everything that I needed. From the comfort of the vehicle to the practical function of it.
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Big Honkin Truck! - 2005 Nissan Armada
By ChrisL - April 28 - 1:26 amI traded my Jeep Liberty for an Armada. Needed more room for the dogs and everyday errands. I cant believe how easy this thing is to park/drive. The reverse camera, excellent stereo, incredible power---all more the reason to enjoy. Mileage is a little scary, but who cares as long as you are comfortable.
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Big Honkin Truck! - 2005 Nissan Armada
By ChrisL - April 28 - 1:26 amI traded my Jeep Liberty for an Armada. Needed more room for the dogs and everyday errands. I cant believe how easy this thing is to park/drive. The reverse camera, excellent stereo, incredible power---all more the reason to enjoy. Mileage is a little scary, but who cares as long as you are comfortable.
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Very happy with my purchase - 2006 Nissan Armada
By harop - April 21 - 2:56 pmTwo weeks ago I bought a used(6mo old) armada with 20K on a odometer. So far I am completely satisfied and enjoy driving it very much. It still smells new. Planning for some light off- roading, and will report back for off- road experience.
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Big and Fast - 2009 Nissan Armada
By keepemreal - April 4 - 1:16 amI bought the Armada shortly after I got rid of my Excursion and I have to say I am very pleased. The truck very comfortable and the features are great. I havent had any problems and would recommend this truck as worth the price.
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Nice design - 2008 Nissan Armada
By rmada - April 2 - 6:53 pmI had a 2005 Armada which I liked but wanted leather and dvd player. traded for the 08 model and the ride is much better. The interior is redesigned and more comfortable. Only real problem is the gas mileage, but its only a family hauler and it doesnt get driven as much.
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No Comparison - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Kelly Shaw - March 7 - 2:00 amThis SUV is wonderful. Very quiet ride with great horsepower. Lots of space for all passengers. Fantastic BOSE stereo system. The Expedition, Tahoe, Suburban, or Navigator dont come even close to value or performance.
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88 suburban replacement - 2004 Nissan Armada
By guylcolo - March 7 - 2:00 amA kick to drive, blows the hemi Durango away. Towed 3500 lbs at 80 mph up and down rolling hills and got 13 mpg in 200 mile trip. Runs like a scalded dog.
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Fun to drive - 2004 Nissan Armada
By skidunn - February 24 - 10:00 amI hated removing my seats in my old car, they were too heavy and my wife never had a chance so the fold down flat rear seat and flip away second row are awesome. Havent had it long enough to determine true milage but it averages over 14 Ill be happy, after all its an SUV. Kids really enjoy all the room to get in and out. Step rail is positioned much better than the Yukon. The shifter down in the middle is very convenient for down and up shifting manually. Also like the smooth ride. It really absorbs the bumpy roads. The only bad thing is I have to share it with my wife.
