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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  Power and Style all in one - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Troy - June 29 - 2:16 am

  I am coming from an 03 Expedition and I am very impressed. After discounts it was $12,000 cheaper than a comparable equiped Q56. I test drove all the competition and NOTHING comes close to the performance of the Armada. The exterior styling is bold and aggressive. Interior in the LE is well laid out. I have not had any problems that plagued the 04 models. Sound system is good for a factory system but the navigation system could use a touch screen. Kids love the rear DVD and theater seating. The ride is very smooth and controlled even with 22" wheels, no shake in the steering wheel as others have indicated. The interior is quiet at any speed. Again, love the power this thing has.

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  This year is should have been skipped - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By eganrac - June 21 - 3:19 am

  Ill start off by saying that I absolutely ADORE my armada. Its an awesome, beautiful, powerful, comfortable vehicle that I enjoy getting in every time. That being said, the 2004 model is an absolute failure when it comes to reliability. I have had a magnitude of issues with this car since about 6 months after I purchased it. Here are my problems and my actions The 06 model would be your best choice as i have heard of limited problems with this.

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  Poor Braking Vehicle - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By J.Howard - June 19 - 9:53 am

  I purchased the Armada New in Nov of 2004. I have had the vehicle at the dealer 4 times for brake issues, 1st time a 7000 miles, 2nd 11,000, 3rd 20,000, 4th 36,000. Brakes still do not function properly, pedal depresses to floor to come to complete stop. Nissan tells me brakes are "within stardards" Very frustrating having a 7,000lb SUV not stopping. Sun Roof switch replaced 2 Xs. Temp/direction in mirror still acting up. Car is now shaking at higher HYwy speeds. SUV is very roomy and fun to drive but, I do not like to take a NEW SUV in for work every 6 months. Very Poor Reliability. Nissan Should have fixed the problems before they sold the Car. I may never by another Nissan again.

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  Buy it - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By Richey - June 13 - 12:13 pm

  Those of us who are 6 5" tall and weighs 250 this is the most effec SUV; that with the price and comfortablity this SUV drives great and also the power is great.

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  Love my Armada - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By 92TripleBlack - June 11 - 1:40 am

  Only problem was fixed under warranty. Nissan redesigned brake rotors and replaced mine free. Very fast, reliable, all the bugs have been worked out. After owning it for 2 years, its still my favorite car to drive. I also own a vette convertible and G35. It is more quiet than the G35 and better for long road trips. I drove it to VT and drove in 6" of snow without problems. Great truck that I recommend to everyone. Get an 06 leftover if you can. The "improvements" for 07 arent worth the extra money.

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  Large limo - 2017 Nissan Armada
  By Dale Katko - June 10 - 7:41 pm

  Quiet and comfortable. Big and you will use the running boards.

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  Powerful road warrior - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By porschekid74 - May 25 - 4:16 pm

  Overall my 2005 Nissan Armada has been a great vehicle so far. It has plenty of power, room, nice features, etc. This SE offroad is surprisingly quiet on the highway for its size. The only downfall is its gas mileage. After six months of ownership I have never gotten better than 15 mpg, but then again step on the gas pedal once and youll see why.

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  05 Armada - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Mike - May 25 - 3:06 pm

  Terrible build quality. Plastic pieces falling off under the dash, paper thin sheet metal body, underpowered A/C, and poorly fitting interior panels. Hard to reach and difficult to control seat/mirror memory.

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  LOVE IT !! - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Armada Lover - May 14 - 10:00 am

  It is a very luxurious SUV with plenty of head and leg room. This car says style!

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  Loving it more everyday! - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Kari Leigh - May 8 - 10:00 am

  Great vehicle. We bought this out of state and drive it on a 2000 mile trip immediately to take it home. I was skeptical at first due to some reviews posted here. Im glad I decided to buy this. Overall much better than my 2001 Tahoe in drivability (Although I only had 1 problem in 3 years where the starter neede to be replaced). I looked at Toyota (Why do people like the interior of Toyotas so much? Just boring.) I think Nissan did an outstanding job on this vehicle. The only complaint I have is a few rattles.