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:

• 

  Armada 2010 - 2010 Nissan Armada
  By Bob - July 28 - 5:56 am

  We looked at this vehicle in 2006 and came close to buying it but bought the Murano instead. Decided to trade in Murano as we wanted more room for traveling. We are very impressed with it and the luxury feel. You barely feel the road or bumps underneath you. While we know gas mileage wont be terrific, the space and ride this gives is far worth a little extra gas. It turns and corners more like a small car than the large SUV it is. I am amazed at the turning radius. All the extras it comes with are great. The satellite nav is awesome and we LOVE the additional voice control. The bluetooth works great and the sound is really clear.I would highly recommend this vehicle. Awesome!

• 

  Nissan Pathfinder - Armada - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Alumaks - July 16 - 2:00 am

  Great ease and comfort in driving for the size of this SUV. Family of 6 welcomed the vehicle with great excited and where not prove wrong in the drive in. Excellent pricing. Cool and soft interiors. I will buy another if I have to replace. Smooth drive and powerful engine,gaining speed without any noticeable drag or delay. Great Stabiliy.

• 

  Better than expected - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Yoh - July 6 - 10:00 am

  I was little bit concerned about quality issue because there were several posts here, however, I did not have any problem at this time. People at Canton began to get used to the line I think. Considering high technology Nissan provided, price setting is reallyl good deal. I am very happy that Nissan has completely revived and began to expand line-ups.

• 

  THE NISSAN ARMADA - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By beergut9000 - July 6 - 10:00 am

  This is a very nice SUV with all the bells and whistels to make your head spin. This SUV is not hard to get up in which is very nice. The aggresive styling is a charm. This SUV rides like a car. So if your looking for a rough riding SUV this is not the Nissan for you

• 

  Ridiculous Nissan and Baker Nissan Dealer - 2012 Nissan Armada
  By max77054 - July 5 - 5:44 am

  I bought a new Nissan Armada SV in 2012. It has been to the shop for 5 times. Within the first 5 month, the front wheel control arms were replaced due to pulling to the right. Before the dealer (Baker Nissan South Houston) found the real problem, the technician cheated me by inflating the right front tire from 35psi to 45psi instead of fixing the control arm. I found the problem shortly before the inflated tire may blow and cause a serious accident in the hot Houston summer. It is very bad for the Baker Nissan put his customer into a risky and dangerous situation.

• 

  the best vehicle I - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By Jeff taff - June 16 - 4:43 pm

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned. It has more space than friends with those other name brans suvs. Comfort is something I look for and it has it by far. For as big as this is the fuel mileage is pretty good.

• 

  Excellent and Stylish Vehicle - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By Anthony - June 2 - 7:10 pm

  I was in the market to buy a full-size SUV. I narrowed my choices down to an Expedition XLT or an Armada SE. You will not go wrong with the Armada. 1st I love the room inside in the 2nd and 3rd rows. Nothing else compares. Instrument panel is a lot more exciting than the Expedition. The base model SE came with alot more stuff that was extra on the Expedition XLT. I love the Red Brawn color. It is an eye catcher. GAS mileage is poor especially with prices around $3.00 in FL. Very powerful SUV. Drives like a truck but it can fly. The Expedition did handle more like a car. This was a great buy and I would recommend it as long as you dont mind going to the pump twice a week.

• 

  SUV on a grand scale - 2010 Nissan Armada
  By KS - June 2 - 10:00 am

  I had my Armada for almost 11 month and it has been exactly what I expected it to be. Its comfortable, safe, powerful and very reliable. Given its massive size it rides well and has a predictable steering response making it easier to maneuver. Brakes feel strong and do a good job stopping without fading. What really won me over this SUV compared to others is Nissans 5.6 L engine that is highly refined and in my opinion the best in its class. In fact Japan issued unofficial warranty on this power plant up to 250,000 miles and name designation of "Endurance V8".

• 

  Worth It! - 2007 Nissan Armada
  By John S. - May 29 - 2:10 am

  Ive owned 2 Jeeps, 4 Blazers, a Bravo,5 loaded Tahoes. This SUV is miles above these in performance (Tahoes close). Tahoe interior is more comfortable & pleasing. Rides like a sports car if one knows how to drive it. Staggering power readily avail. when needed. Handling amazing for such a large unit. Wonderfully controllable in all driving situations. Not ideal for average soccer moms but terrific for serious drivers w/ fun, work, and quality travel in mind. I own a Jag and a Mercedes sports car. When behind wheel of Armada I dont feel loss of control or power as one might expect after driving true sports cars. The difference in cornering is obvious but not uncomfortably or dangerously so.

• 

  Good so far - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By supshaw - May 29 - 2:00 am

  Ive the Armada LE RWD for two weeks now, and Im very happy with it. You wouldnt believe the looks it gets. Quick, nimble and sure in city and highway driving. It is SO big.