Used 2012 Nissan Armada SUV Review & Ratings

The Nissan Armada SUV is a full size SUV produced by Nissan Motors and based on the same F-Alpha platform as the Xterra, Titan and Pathfinder. While the Armada is in itself a luxury SUV, a more luxurious and expensive model was produced and sold as an Infiniti QX56 between the years 2004 and 2010. Every Armada produced is built and manufactured in the United States and carries the trademark rear door handle on the C pillar that was begun with the Pathfinder. The Armada SUV was created as the full-size entry into the North American SUV market and was released for the 2004 year. The original Armada was in fact named the Pathfinder Armada, but shared no resemblance to Pathfinder beyond the name. Because of that the name was dropped in 2005 and it was known from then forward as simply the Armada.

The Nissan Armada SUV is a luxury family SUV that is also ideal for hauling and towing. With the right equipment, the Armada has the capabilities of towing up to 9100 pounds. Even with this advantage and the fact that there are some that can take E85 instead of traditional fuel, the Armada is not considered the best in its class.

Driving the Nissan Armada SUV showcases both its strengths and its limitations. This SUV has a strong acceleration that allows it quickly showcase its power. With a powerful V8 motor backing it up, there is not much that the Armada cannot accomplish. It is the strength of the motor and the mere size of this SUV that make it a towing beast. Surprisingly, even with such a large and powerful vehicle, the ride is fairly smooth. Passengers will find it comfortable, yet flawed. Drivers will realize that it handles far more like a truck than a car and the steering is not as precise as one would like.

Where the Nissan Armada SUV really loses the race for the luxury full-size SUV competition is on the interior. Though it is quite impressive with a host of high quality materials, the space offered is lacking when pitted against the nearest competitors in the price range. On the good side, the controls are organized well and quite user-friendly. The front seats are spacious and comfortable in all trims and depending on the trim the 2nd row either sits two or three passengers fairly comfortably. However, the third row leaves much less space and leg room than the competition. Cargo space is also inferior and there just aren't as many features as one would find in most luxury family SUVs.

All in all the Nissan Armada SUV is not a bad vehicle. It has a high quality interior that was designed with luxury in mind. In fact, it is so luxurious that a model was upgraded and sold as the Infiniti QX56. The first two rows are quite comfortable, with the option of two captain's chairs in the second row. The Armada has a powerful engine and strong acceleration to enhance its ability to tow and haul quite well. For those looking for a luxury SUV that is also a workhorse, the Armada is a viable choice. However, there are a number of options on the market that are in the same price range and have more to offer in terms of ride quality, features and space.