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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  Awsome SUV - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By peppershaker - September 24 - 3:00 pm

  I bought this used with the intention to buy a new Chevy SUV, but after owning an Altima for 8 years and putting 175000 miles with no problems. I had to test drive the Armada so we did and liked it much better than the Chevy Tahoe. I have three kids and they have all the room in the world to move around and we are getting ready to buy a new camper so the towing cap. was very important to us. We get about 15 miles to a gal in the city with the k&n filter in it . We love this SUV. If youre looking for a dependable truck this is it. We will drive this one for ten years and put 200000 miles before we need to buy another.

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  What a great SUV! - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Don P - September 24 - 2:00 am

  Im extremely impressed with the SUV and LOVE driving it. The Armada drives much smaller than it is and is surpisingly maneuverable in tight situations/ downtown. Auto folding mirrors would be a nice touch for narrow garages however. The engine and drive train is phenomenal. The transmission is smooth and there is a lot of power... Im surpised that its only rated at 305hp... seems like more. The ride is a bit stiff but will soften over time. I have not experience any of the resonance issues.. perhaps this is not a problem with more recent builds. This is an excellent vehicle for people with kids/ dogs and the like.

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  Great suv - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By MANNY - September 16 - 5:00 pm

  Almost 10k miles this vehicle continues to impress me. Ive owned several gme yukes & tahoe the power handling are superior in every way. The ride is stiffer but i liken it to the comparison i made between my american cars and my 5 series beemers..You feel the road..For something this large it handles superbly. Creature comforts seating , hvac, bose are all above average and certainly up to the standards you would expect from a $40k+ suv. The engine and trans are flawless in 2 snow it was as good or better then my yukes. In full auto the engine has a short shift range but what power! As mentioned handling was superior as proven on a recent trip to nyc on the merit pky twisties++++fun+fun

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  2004 LE Armada Loaded - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By bsmooth32 - September 13 - 10:00 am

  A serious SUV to travel in. Have had it only for a weekend but so far I am very happy. NO problems with it so far.

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  Couldnt be happier - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By markB - August 28 - 2:10 pm

  Awesome flexibility and driving experience. Storage galore, power a plenty. Superb sound system. Very comfortable, great visibility and security with all those airbags and reversing sensors.

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  I love this more than my mustang! - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By mustangsally_y2k - August 28 - 11:20 am

  I cannot believe how I have grown to depend on this car both summer and winter. I bought it for a winter vehicle but we have used it to tow our 20 ft travel trailer and it pulls so much better than our truck! It is so comfy for my 6 foot frame that I like to drive my car everywhere instead of being the passenger in another car! I love the way it handles and I feel the safest I have ever felt when driving a vehicle.

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  Cali Review - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By Cali Review - August 22 - 9:06 am

  The biggest yardstick that will measure this vehicle will be quality of the product and maintenance. I like the comfort and horsepower. City driving is expensive, especially with gas prices. Overall, I like this vehicle a lot.

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  400 miles - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Bill Pechilis - August 18 - 2:00 am

  Only 400 miles on it & so far I like my decision.Very comfortable seating in the cloth.The front 2 rows are great 3rd row is for kids or small adults.The engine is very smooth on the highway at 70 -80.It does have a little growl to it while accelerating which I love.The tranny is the best I,ve ever had.Space galore.City driving takes care but becomes easier with pratice.I love it.

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  Big Nissan..Big Power - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By BigKW - August 12 - 2:00 am

  I bought the Armada to tow my boat. A little overkill since my boat and trailer only weights 3,500 lbs. The vehicle has had some initial minor repairs with the rear seat cable release jammed. In addition, they replaced the left rear axle since it would make a cricketing noise when loaded (acceleration). I noticed the noise when driving with windows down.

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  Armada muscle sport ute - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By BART - August 9 - 4:03 pm

  Agressive muscle SUV with unusual good looking proportions from the norm. Handles and and dives just like a sedan. Can use wheel well flare trim to offset the large tire slpash and plain side panels front and rear. A lower front bumper grille detail to cover lower fan exposure would be nice. Visibility is good for size.