2008 Nissan Armada Review

The Armada is Nissan’s top-of-the-line, full-size SUV. Debuting for 2004, the Armada seats eight passengers. With its large size and huge 5.6-L V8 engine, the Armada can practically carry anything. It has seen little change since its introduction.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Nissan Armada might be made by a Japanese company, but its size and power make it all American. The Armada is a good choice if you have a large family that you want to carry in style and comfort. However, you might want to consider another option if you don’t have a bottomless gas budget.

What’s New For 2008:

The exterior now boasts a new grille and redesigned headlights. The interior has been restyled to accommodate a third-row power folding seat, new steering wheel, and several general upgrades to give it a more luxurious feel. The LE comes standard with a keyless ignition, MP3 player with a 9 gig hard drive, and Bluetooth.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Armada 2 stars for overall mechanical quality and 2.5 stars for overall design quality. Early Armadas had problems with cold starting, engine knocking, leaks, and short circuits. No recalls have been issued. Expect better than average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Crash test ratings are not available. The 2007 model earned 4.5 stars in government frontal tests. Anti-lock brakes, brake assist, active head restraints, full side airbags, parking sensors, and stability control come standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Seats eight
+ Good reliability history
+ Powerful engine

Cons
– Abysmal gas mileage
– Awkward due to its size
– Lagging behind in features

Head-To-Head Competition:

The 2008 Buick Enclave CXL costs about $700 less and adds leather seats, a six-speed transmission, and more payload capacity. However, it misses out on the Armada’s V8 engine, CD changer, and 40 more horsepower. The 2007 Ford Explorer Limited at the same price offers standard 4WD, leather seats, and a six-speed. However, it has a smaller engine with 25 fewer horsepower. You can also buy a Honda Pilot EX-L with 4WD for the same price and get leather seats, a moonroof, and better gas mileage. However, the Pilot has a smaller V6, 70 less horsepower, and less payload capacity.

What Others Are Saying:

“Behind the new West Virginia-front-tooth grille of the 2008 Armada, this SUV is largely unchanged…While those new goodies might help keep the Armada competitive with new SUVs from Ford and Chevrolet, we’re not so sure the new front end will help.” – Automobile Magazine

“…Nissan Armada delivers a nice ride, comfortable accommodations and unique style in a crowded sea of SUVs. Add the Armada to your fleet, and you’ll be sure to command the road.” – About.com

“The independent rear suspension design, with its minimal intrusion into the interior, maximizes space, and an automatic rear air leveling system (optional SE, standard LE) improves stability and ride comfort when towing or carrying heavy cargo. The system automatically adjusts air pressure in the suspension bladders to maintain a uniform ground clearance and departure angle.” – Top Speed

Read more about the 2008 Nissan Armada at the Nissan manufacturer web site.