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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  The Behemoth - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By JVB2000 - January 2 - 10:00 am

  After a few weeks of adjusting to a large size SUV, I can honestly say that I love my Armada. I have had all the 1st year out problems however (2 new sets of brakes & rotors in 6000 miles and the replacement of the casing for the DVD screen) but they get fixed and I move along. The turning radius of the truck is better than on any car Ive ever driven-I can get into some of the tighest spots! The pick up is there when you need it and there is more than enough room for all the strollers and groceries. Now if it didnt cost $50 a week to fill Id love it more.

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  If Only... - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By Audrey - January 1 - 6:33 am

  I have huge mixed feelings about the Nissan product. I love the styling and the power, but there is no doubt about it, my Armada is a piece of crap. It must have been built on a Friday when everyone wanted to go home. Within the 1st year of ownership, the brakes squealed horrendously, the radiator had to be replaced because it was cracked, the rearview mirrors would not adjust upward, the transmission would shift roughly, the steering would shake while braking, and the list goes on. It took 6 trips to the dealership to finally convince them the radiator needed replaced. Now, there is a loud rattle when accelerating, the car needs a front- end alignment, and Im stuck because of the economy

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  I wouldnt if I were you - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Laura - December 17 - 2:00 am

  Since we have owned this car, there has not been one day that there wasnt something wrong with it. I have 50 plus pages of invoices from warranty repairs. Brakes, rotors, windows, doors, seats, seatbelts, leaks from various places in the engine, exhaust system problems. Its loud and squeaky inside. Its big, spacious and fun but not worth the time in the shop. Not to mention the fact that the dealership and Nissan corporation have been pains to deal with. Seriously, get a suburban.

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  best large SUV for the $$ - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By pc - December 13 - 5:40 pm

  Prior to buying this, I was actually pretty set on the 07 Yukon, however there were certain features on the Armada that won me over. 1. Interior space - this vehicle has more room in the drivers cockpit the the GMC. Also, 2nd row has a lot of legroom. 2. 3rd row seats - I cant understand why GM has not gone to a fold flat 3rd row - I just leave the seats down until needed. 3. Ride quality is great - independent rear suspension does make a nice difference. Also has excellent ground clearance. I am one of those people that actually needs and uses the 4 wheel drive on an SUV. While the LE comes with street tires, it does have excellent manners off road. Traction control works great.

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  Great Value - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Bigal190 - December 13 - 10:00 am

  Compared to Sequoia, Expedition and Tahoe, the Armada has more standard features, more power, drives and handles better, and is roomier. Nicest vehicle of all the large SUVs. All of that and it is the best priced.

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  Nissan Armada LE 4X - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By barginshoppersuv - December 7 - 2:00 am

  Overall I like this truck alot and its our fourth SUV. Your get alot of truck for the price and so much more interior room. My last SUV was an expedition and I only miss Keyless pad entry, mileage display, and digital climate control. Over all would never go back to a Ford again. Nissan has done a great job creating this SUV.

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  Great truck...rides like a car - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By ksloan77 - December 7 - 2:00 am

  After Nissan works out the kinks with this truck...it should rule the large SUV market. Ride is fantastic. There is a problem with the roof of this vehicle. My hope is nissan does a recall and really can fix it. Avoid the DVD system in the roof, as this will add weight to an already strained roof. I will have my DVD system installed in the head rests of the front seats. Horsepower is amazing. Controls are easy to operate as is the navigation system. Coming from a former Explorer(2), Expedition(3), Honda Pilot, Land Crusier, and Yukon owner...this truck is already better than those .... and will be far better after Nissan fixes a few things.

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  Watch out Detroit - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By nrsmiths - December 7 - 2:00 am

  We just took delivery 1-5-04. I bought this vehicle to tow my 35 camper, and to commute to and from work. This is the only vehicle that we drove with the capability to pull the camper without going to a 3/4 ton tow vehicle. We were also very impressed with the value offered in this vehicle, compared with other vehicles in the class. We will be taking it on a long weekend trip in a couple of weeks and neither my wife nor I can wait to spend a few hours behind the wheel.

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  Good truck - 2017 Nissan Armada
  By sam - December 6 - 8:49 am

  gas consumption but if you compare it to land cruiser , infinity q80, Tahoe premium 2017 they all do. 30k less than land cruiser, 20 to 25k less than infinity and about 12k less than Tahoe premium. So if you spend 1k more yearly on gas it does worth it. After all I will use it 2 years before I sell it the same price in Africa, I really love this truck.

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  Forget the others, buy the Armada! - 2007 Nissan Armada
  By Spence - December 2 - 3:36 pm

  After going back and forth between the Armada and the new Tahoe we finally decided on the Armada. No regrets at all. Tons of power to tow a 6500 lb boat. Im 65" tall; the Armada was way more roomy for me and for the rest of the family. My wife and I really liked the standard features (too many to list) over the competition. Best bang for the buck. Way to go Nissan!