- 2010
2008 Nissan Armada
- Used Nissan Armada
Exterior - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 model, like its predecessors, has a look that some reviewers don't mind--but enough think others in the class look better to rank the Armada's exterior in the middle of the class. All can agree, however, that it looks bold. "A bold, double-deck, chrome-laden grille design made the front resemble a giant dinosaur head ready to consume small sedans in a single bite," says the Sacramento Bee.
Available in two trim levels -- the SE and LE -- "the Armada looks plenty tough," finds MSN, "with rugged styling that matches its imposing size." "Adding to the Armada's strong presence are its big chrome bumpers and big grille," writes Auto Mall USA. "The grille is body-colored on the SE, and chromed for even more visual strength on the LE."
Whether the aggressive, rugged look is pleasing is a matter of opinion, and reviewers' vary widely. "The Armada's styling is going to be a 'love it or hate it' issue for most people," observes About.com. The Washington Post says, "The wide front end is different from the narrow middle, which is different from the oddly tapered rear. Visually, it is the motorized version of a dysfunctional family held together by instant necessity, rather than bound together by love."
"As usual, Nissan goes for some unique contours, which includes a side aspect that separates the roofline of the passenger and rear-bed areas," writes a reviewer for the Arizona Republic. "To my eye, that side contour makes the SUV look as if it is sagging behind the rear door." MSN echoes this sentiment, noting, "The roof seems to have two contours -- sort of rounded over the front seats and then squared off toward the back -- and it doesn't seem to match. The look sort of reminded me of a hearse, in fact. "
