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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  excellent - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Rod Hill - March 8 - 11:40 pm

  When driving the Armada, heads are turning and just about everyone says that it is their dream car. The only weak point was the recall on the brake pads, otherwise the Armada is the best SUV on the road today.

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  Love it other than the Front Brakes - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Chris - March 3 - 11:50 am

  At only 2,700 miles the Front Brakes need an overhaul. It is sad that this is such a common problem for such an awesome SUV. Tons of power and very smooth Trany. Consumer Reports complained about Engine and exhaust noise, get a clue, its a V8 SUV. It happens to be one of my favorite things about the Armada, the deep exhaust and powerful sounding engine. We have four boys, and they love the room and especially the BOSE DVD system, it ROCKS!!! Almost bought a Toyota Sequoia based on their their awesome track record. They were more $ and under-powered. Nissan has built a great SUV other than a few little rattles and their one big problem, the brakes.

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  Outdoes GM, from a loyal chev owner - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Armada - March 2 - 2:16 pm

  This vehicle has outdone my expectations on all facets. I pull a 32 foot travel trailer with ease, and struggled with the suburban. Dealership was more knowledgable and willing to work with me to get a match on vehicle. Will never go back to the GM line.

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  Best SUV for the Money... By Far - 2006 Nissan Armada
  By Steve - February 28 - 2:33 pm

  I test drove the Tahoe, Expedition, Sequoia, and of course the Armada. The Armada beat them all. The Tahoe and Expedition had decent power, but both felt like a big truck. The Sequoia felt like a luxury car, but lacked power and lacked all the "extras" that come with SUVs these days (i.e., fold flat seats). The Armada felt like a powerful sports car that, oh by the way, could also haul 8 people with extreme comfort. I am satisfied with my choice.

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  Give me a Brake! Please. - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Kids Limo Service - February 16 - 10:00 am

  Four months of driving and the front end shakes violently when you apply the brakes. Nissan says it is safe. As a mom, I say if it shakes dont drive it. Repair parts are in short supply. I love the room in this SUV. Great for a large family and all the required sports and school gear. Nissan is having trouble with the roof supports and some electrical systems as well. If your DVD system vibrates take it in before it falls off on to your kids. I am betting on this being a great vehicle in the long run. We should have waited for year two, so Nissan could work the bugs out.

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  Nissan has done it. Lookout toyota&chevy - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By Chris Hansen - February 14 - 8:16 am

  We have loved our Nissan Armada. It has tons of room, tons of power, and drives excellent. We have had the typical front brake problem, but Nissan has a remedy for that problem. Some rattles, but the Dealer is working those out. Best big SUV on the Market. More power than TAHOE & SEQUOIA.

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  Happy Owner - 2005 Nissan Armada
  By Tony C - January 27 - 5:46 am

  Great Family Vehicle, everyone fits + more. Meets all of my needs, MPG is about 16-17mpg. But, its a full size SUV

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  Brawler - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By Edward - January 26 - 5:20 am

  A full size SUV brawler, it rivals the competition Ive owned a Chevy Tahoe, GMC Denali, Ford expedition Eddie Bauer 4Wd and they were all great vehicles but towing and room Nissan is the best. This truck is so plush and good looking, and gets a lot of looks. I feel very comfortable taking my family any where in this vehicle. Its to bad there going to stop making it, 2010 is last year of truck. Better make down to your nearest Nissan dealer and pick up one. Love the 9.3 gig HD stereo system.

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  Best full size SUV - 2008 Nissan Armada
  By Jessica Woods - January 20 - 2:26 pm

  Had an Expedition and decided to go smaller so I went with a BMW X5. What was I thinking? Had the BMW literally for 10 months and researched full size SUVs. The powerful Armada has been hands down the best SUV that I have ever driven. Its driving performance is incomparable to any other ride out there. My Expedition had a ridiculous amount of play in the steering wheel and such a narrow wheel base that I felt as if I would flip over. With the Armada you get an extra wide wheel base and can turn on a dime. I thought that parking this beast might be an issue but watching my passengers freak out when I whip into a parking space without any problems is a great testimony to its control.

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  Love It! - 2004 Nissan Armada
  By DebP - January 15 - 2:00 am

  Although Ive only had the vehicle for one, week, I still thoroughly enjoy each time I get behind the wheel. I have three children, and there is plenty of room for their comfort as well. The Armada handles beautifully. Ive never owned a Nissan and now I am Nissan fan.