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Nissan Armada - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Nissan Armada ranks 11 out of 12 Affordable Large SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 47 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Armada, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Nissan Armada offers buyers plenty of power and rugged capability, but not enough to make it a standout in this competitive class.

Despite the fact that it's not the least expensive SUV in the class, the Nissan Armada is a good value for its size and capabilities. With seating for up to eight, and a 317 horsepower V8 engine, there's a lot for buyers who need a capable SUV to like. Plus, if you opt for the Armada's top-of-the-line Platinum trim, it becomes a near-luxury SUV for less than what you'd pay for its luxury nameplate cousin, the Infiniti QX56

However, while the Armada is an able performer, it loses points for predicted reliability score that isn't as strong as others in the class. What may be worse for the Armada in the minds of most buyers is its fuel economy: the Armada has some of the worst fuel economy in the class, making it a tough sell. Still, given the soft new car market, buyers who like the Armada may be able to save enough money at the dealership to keep the Armada gassed up for a while. 

If you're looking for more comfort in an SUV, check out the class-leading Chevrolet Tahoe, which offers more refinement and is almost as rugged as the Armada. Plus, the Tahoe has marginally better fuel economy. The Ford Expedition is also worth a look.  Its price is slightly less than the Armada's, and it has an adult-friendly third row seat -- a rarity in this class.

For 2010, new trims are available on the Armada. Armada buyers can chose between SE, Titanium and Platinum editions. The Titanium and Platinum trims feature upgraded wheels, body moldings and interior materials. The Platinum edition also features a 9.3 GB music hard drive, DVD entertainment system and a navigation system.

Before heading to the dealership, be sure to check out this month's Best Nissan Deals, where we've done the research and found the best discounts and deals for you.

• "The Armada puts the right stuff in a lot of the right places for buyers desiring a full measure of the large SUV experience," -- Automobile Magazine
• "This big traditional SUV is built upon the bones of the Titan pickup and packs a powerful V-8 engine. Its three rows of seating are remarkably spacious, it drives smaller than it actually is, and it is well-suited to towing. The optional luxuries make the Infiniti QX56 a bit redundant." -- Car and Driver
• "Armada doesn't lead the large-SUV class in any area. It trails key rivals in 3rd-row comfort and ease of entry and exit." -- Consumer Guide
• "During my two-week test drive of the 2010 Nissan Armada, I liked almost everything about the full-size SUV. However, I'll never buy one - not until its gas mileage improves." -- Mother Proof

Armada Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)

The best part of the Nissan Armada is its formidable powertrain.  Car and Driver  writes, "The throttle response rivals that of the excellent GM V8, an alluring burble pulses out the exhaust, and shifts of the five-speed transmission are almost undetectable."   Read More

Armada Exterior - 7.0 (Good)

The 2010 Nissan Armada's rugged styling stands out in the class, as does its size. Kelley Blue Book says, "The Armada is one of the most ornate SUVs we've seen. It has a raised roof, arched door frames and huge side fender flares." Read More

Armada Interior - 7.6 (Good)

The Armada can seat up to eight people, depending on how its interior is configured.  Second-row captain's chairs get positive reviews, but reviewers note that others in the class offer more cargo space. Read More

Armada Safety - NA

According to government crash tests, the 2010 Armada earns five of five stars in driver protection and four of five stars in front-passenger protection in frontal crash tests. Moreover, the Armada earns a rollover rating of three of five stars. Read More

Armada Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)

The 2010 Nissan Armada reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Armada is covered by a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.  Read More