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 Big Girl Truck - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Sharon Curry - August 30 - 2:00 amI love my new truck. The size is prefect to transport my daughters wheelchair & take my other 2 children were they need to go.
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its ok to new to say more - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Oheavvyhand - August 30 - 2:00 amonly have had for a week. The big v8 is really what a suv this size needs.It runs like a striped ape but look out the 13 miles to the gallon in the city is more like 9.Im told by the dealer that will change as the suv breaks in. lets hope so.The boses sound system is a big plus. lots of room for everything and everybody.I like this suv. Just not the gas mileage.
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Great SUV - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Armada fan - August 26 - 4:43 pmBy far the best full size SUV in its class. I compared it with the Expedition, Tahoe, and Sequoia. The Armada won hands down on power, performance, ride, looks, and interior.
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Worth the wait - 2004 Nissan Armada
By bhoyl - August 19 - 10:00 amJust an awesome vehicle. Ive been burned by domestic SUVs (reliability, resale, etc) and I have waited for Nissan to build a large SUV. Could not be happier. Has TONs of power and is more nimble that you would ever expect from a large vehicle. We get stared at at ever stop light and while the look may not work for everyone, it is unique and at least not boring and omnipresent like Tahoes, Expeditions, etc. I was a little reluctant to buy a first try from Nissan but so far I have been extremely satisfied and it was worth the wait. Glad I didnt wait longer...
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Nissan Driver - 2004 Nissan Armada
By Tulsan - August 19 - 8:03 amI love Nissans. Maxima was my first NEW car. Loved it! Fell in love with the style of the Armada when it first came out. My biggest fear was that it was manufactured in Canton, MS. I wasnt sure it was going to be dependable. But this SUV is great for large families. I have 3 kids and all 3 car seats fit in the 2nd row with room left over. Nobody smashes fingers trying to get their seat belts hooked.
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Amazing SUV for the right CORRECT PRICE - 2010 Nissan Armada
By Big J - August 16 - 3:10 amWe were looking for 2 years. Since GM and other USA car mgs were going BK..The Aramda (house on wheels) caught my eye at a routine stop at Nissan on my maxima. AWESOME/AMAZING TRUCK. Total price 42k out the door. Took the NISSAN cash and paid cash. This SUV has it all especially the IMPROVED Blue Tooth for phones. Real time traffic...power..you name it, it rocks!
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Great Value - 2009 Nissan Armada
By wcoates - August 13 - 5:11 pmI was originally looking at a Sequoia but couldnt resist looking at the Armada because of the price. Ive put 10K miles on this truck so far and am quite impressed with it. The only issue Ive had so far is with steering wheel audio controls not working all the time. Gas mileage could be a little better, as compared to other SUVs in its class, but not a deal breaker for me. Leg room is pretty impressive. Overall I do not regret buying this truck. I love the way it drives and traction control does a pretty good job of minimizing tire slip. I will definitely consider another Armada later down the road.
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Just Another Vehicle - 2004 Nissan Armada
By BH - August 12 - 4:23 amI have about 2700 miles on my Armada. The gas mileage (about 11.5 in town; about 14 on the hwy.) and the squeakes, especially from the drivers window, has made this vehicle a bad experience. I took it to my dealer for the window and was told they couldnt fix it and hoped that Nissan would come out with a bulletin on how to fix it. However, I do enjoy the room and comfort of the vehicle.
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Caught off Guard - 2005 Nissan Armada
By dogteam - August 2 - 4:26 pmI was caught off guard that this truck has worked so well. I read a lot of bad reviews and was cautious about this truck. I get compliments on its looks all the time and I can haul my kids and all their stuff with no problem. The power is great and it is geared nice, this big dude can really get on the freeway in a hurry. The backup camera is great and my sons love the DVD. I even watch it while when I have to wait in the truck. The dealership has been good to me also. I ran into the brake shaking problem and they solved it in a few hours at no cost. Other than that, the truck is tough and has run great.
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Smooth Ride with Powa! - 2010 Nissan Armada
By XWARRIOR - July 28 - 10:00 amI always have prefer SUVs over coupes and sedans. The 2010 Nissan Armada Titanium has the space to fit my short, stocky stature and has the power to move through the NYC highways in a breeze. I recently went from NYC to Woodbury (50- 55 miles each way) and average 22-25 miles to the gallon round trip. In the city, it is a bit abysmal but all SUVs suck gas however having a 28 gallon gas tank does save a couple of trips to the station. It also has better top speed (140 mph) then most of its rivals in the class. It absorbs city potholes very well. The seats are firm in which, it is a godsend when stuck in heavy traffic. "Once you drive a truck, you can never go back".
