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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A Good Value - 2005 Nissan Armada
By Rigmaster - December 12 - 2:16 pmI looked at all the makes. Sequoia was just too pricey and the domestics have too many recall and other issues. Infinti version not worth the extra money - expensive cladding. The Armada rides well so far. Especially like the price-value for this size SUV. Nissan dealers arent very good though so be happy if you get a well- built vehicle that doesnt require their assistance. Anyone expecting great gas mileage in a 4x4 with this size and engine shouldnt have bought one in the first place. Compare this to others with similar features and this is a clear winner. Will do another update after some additional driving. Toyota should be worried that theres a new big SUV to take on the Sequoia.
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Armada 2009 - 2009 Nissan Armada
By Nelson - December 9 - 11:23 amSUV is solid and strong. The large V8 has plenty of power and can keep family safe with its safety features and large size. Downside to the large powerful V8 is that it is a gas guzzler. If gas stays reasonably cheap then it shouldnt be an issue. Great car, love it.
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The Armada has landed - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Squidhead - December 6 - 10:00 amSome of the seat controls seem to stick at times, but I appreciate the versatility of the seat transformations. The cooler console on the LE does not seem especially well thought through, the one I looked at was smallish on the inside, and the attaching clip had already been broken.
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Mean SUV - 2004 Nissan Armada
By 03acerider - December 6 - 1:00 amWe have had our Armada since Jan, 2004 and have put over 16,000 miles on it! We test drove it and the Sequoia and felt the Aramda was better. It has to be the "badest" SUV out there. We took it on a 5,000 mile trip to San Francisco this past summer and the Armada was outstanding! Had to get the left rear window motor replaced. Several squeaks and rattle here and there. I am blaming that on first year gremlins! Hopefully Nissan will fix that in future models. The gas mileage is terrible, but thats what you get with that awesome engine! I am thinking of installing a Borla exhaust system and see what that will really sound like!
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Poor build quality - 2005 Nissan Armada
By Ron - December 4 - 5:23 amIm not sure at what factory my Armada was assembled, but there were simply too many parts that were either not installed at all, or installed broken. Also, the under dash squeaks and window rattles are driving me nuts. I did get the brakes fixed, but the parts that needed fixing were the redesigned parts, so Im not confident theyre truly fixed. I love the power, but given the choice, would not buy this vehicle again.
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Get ready to shell out huge $$$ for repairs - 2006 Nissan Armada
By vfabrici - December 2 - 11:36 pmWe have owned the truck since new, it now has about 220k miles. Im going to give the truck overall an f, The amount spent on repairs is really high, specifically for things that should have lasted the life of the truck. 2) at less than 60k miles the exhaust manifolds warped. This was an obscene $3600 repair. 3) Factory radio/cd player died in less than 3 years, a $800 repair. 4) Radiator had to be replaced at less than 100k miles, almost $1000. 5) Dealer screwed the car up and ruined the fuel pump while doing factory warranty work on the gas gauge. They then refused to acknowledge they caused the problem. Truck went in running fine, came out limping home, could barely go
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Big, Fast, and Safe - 2009 Nissan Armada
By 7-Footr - November 26 - 5:36 pmIf you are in the market for a people hauler, then this should definitely be on your list to test drive. Im 71" and I fit in the Armada really good. I had to get one without the sunroof, but that didnt bother me. This is my second Armada and love this one more than the last one. If you live in your car like I do and want a fun, FAST, comfortable, safe vehicle this is it. I know the gas mileage is at best 15 miles to a gallon....but there is a trade off for safety. I was in two accidents with my 2006 Armada and walked away from both of them. To me, safety is worth the low gas mileage. Your friends will be happy you bought an Armada as well, with how comfortable theyll be.
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awesome armada - 2005 Nissan Armada
By bill - November 24 - 6:36 pmThis truck is awesome. It by-far surpassed my expectations. A head turner/ intimidating beast. You tweebs who care about gas mileage, take a hike. If you want unsurpassed power, style and envy buy this truck. It put the hummer to shame.
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Like Flying First-Class - 2005 Nissan Armada
By Maryland Bob - November 24 - 4:46 pmThe design of the Armada sets it apart from all its competition. Moving away from the boxy sameness that the American automakers have had for the past 10 years, the Armada stands as a refreshing design with great road "presence." The comfort of driving is excellent with a very generous interior, superb quiet at highway speeds, excellent acceleration, and a tow capability of almost 10,000 lbs. Many creature comforts are included and the interior has the feel of a first-class seat on a 767, including excellent rear leg room. The gas mileage is typical for a large, heavy vehicle but a small price to pay for the many advantages a vehicle this size gives for hauling cargo and passengers.
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very nice - 2004 Nissan Armada
By tony04 - November 18 - 10:00 amvery nice car, it rides good and even handles good.
