Road Test - 2008 Nissan Armada Le

Passes, left me convinced that the Armada is one of the best people haulers on the market. My passengers felt safe and sound as I navigated through blowing snow and dense fog (aided by one of the best OEM navigation systems on the market) with the surefootedness of Nissan's All-Mode 4WD system, as well as electronic traction and stability controls in play.

Acceleration was very linear, even on hills and slippery road surfaces, and once grip was established the engine cruised along quietly as my road mates watched movies on the flip-down, roof mounted screen. I entertained myself grabbing radio signals from outer space via the XM satellite radio, and I must admit that it is nice to have the XM system for journeys like this, as terrestial radio signals fade out quickly when you travel through mountainous regions. The five-speed automatic seemed to adapt quickly to my inputs via the throttle and brakes, but efficiency was the order of the day when on the highway.

The Armada comes equipped with four-wheel disc brakes backed up by electronic systems to prevent locking and wheelspin. I was impressed that even after a few long descents and one panic stop for a wayward moose, they proved fade tree. This is no small feat as the Armada is  a heavy hauler at almost three tons. Factor in the additional weight of passengers, gear and some buyers, maybe even a trailer, and you can see why  Nissan's engineers focused on giving the Armada tremendous stopping power. Had the moose become a hood ornament  the Armada features front, side and curtain deployed airbags as standard equipment.

Steering is precise for such a large vehicle, and its speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering never felt intrusive. The independent suspension absorbed road irregularities with aplomb, helped out by an auto leveling rear suspension and stabilizer bars to counter the effects of the load on board.

There are few vehicles on the road today that can offer as much room, comfort and versatility as the Nissan Armada. Its subtle makeover gives it a fresh face, and brings a new level and refinement to a category that needed some more polish. The 2008 Armada is definitely worth a long look.
Engine:          5.6L V-8
Power(hp):     317
Torque(lb/ft): 385
Weight(kgs.lbs): 2,652/5,834
0-97 KPH (sec):  6.5
Transmission:     5 speed auto
Base MSRP:    $63,298
L/100KM(city/highway): 18.1/11.7