The Nissan Armada, specifically the first generation (WA60) facelift model produced from 2007 to 2016, represented Nissan’s entry into the full-size SUV market in North America. Built on the Nissan F-Alpha platform, shared with the Infiniti QX56, the Armada aimed to provide a robust, capable, and comfortable vehicle for families and those needing substantial towing capacity. The 5.6-liter V8 engine paired with a five-speed automatic transmission was a mainstay of the Armada lineup during this period, offering a balance of power and usability. This configuration positioned itself as the premium offering within the Armada range, above the base models, and focused on delivering a refined driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Armada |
| Generation | Armada I (WA60, facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.6 (317 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 18.1 l/100 km (13 US mpg, 15.6 UK mpg, 5.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 127.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 155.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 317 Hp @ 4900 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 385 Nm @ 3600 rpm (283.96 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VK56DE |
| Engine displacement | 5552 cm3 (338.8 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 14.4 l (15.22 US qt | 12.67 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2480 kg (5467.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 695 kg (1532.21 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 566 l (19.99 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2750 l (97.12 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 106 l (28 US gal | 23.32 UK gal) |
| Length | 5255 mm (206.89 in.) |
| Width | 2002 mm (78.82 in.) |
| Height | 1913 mm (75.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3130 mm (123.23 in.) |
| Front track | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
INTRODUCTION
The 2007-2016 Nissan Armada, particularly the variant equipped with the 5.6-liter VK56DE V8 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission, was a significant offering in the full-size SUV segment. Positioned as a body-on-frame SUV, it provided a more traditional SUV experience compared to the increasingly popular crossover vehicles. The facelift in 2007 brought updated styling and minor refinements to the original WA60 platform introduced in 2004. This version of the Armada was primarily sold in North America, where large SUVs remained popular for their spaciousness, towing capabilities, and perceived safety.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Armada variant is the VK56DE 5.6-liter V8 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 32-valve powerplant featuring Nissan’s DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain and a 9.8:1 compression ratio. It utilizes a combination of direct injection and multi-port fuel injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The VK56DE is known for its robust construction and relatively simple design, contributing to its overall reliability. The five-speed automatic transmission (typically the RE5R05A) was chosen for its durability and ability to handle the engine’s substantial torque output. While not the most technologically advanced transmission available at the time, it was well-suited to the Armada’s intended use as a towing vehicle. The transmission features electronically controlled shift points and a tow/haul mode to improve performance when carrying heavy loads.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.6-liter V8 and five-speed automatic combination delivered a respectable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in around 6.7 to 7.1 seconds, making it competitive with other full-size SUVs of the era. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, resulting in a slightly less responsive feel compared to models equipped with a manual transmission (which were not commonly available in the US market). The gear ratios were optimized for towing and cruising, prioritizing low-end torque over outright acceleration. In real-world driving, the Armada felt substantial and planted, offering a comfortable ride even on rough roads. However, its large size and weight made it less agile than smaller SUVs.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Armada with the 5.6L engine typically came in higher trim levels, such as the LE and SE. Standard features included tri-zone automatic climate control, a Bose audio system, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and a rear entertainment system. Optional extras included a navigation system, power-folding third-row seats, and a sunroof. The interior design was generally considered functional and comfortable, though not particularly luxurious compared to some European or domestic competitors. The Armada prioritized practicality and durability over opulent features.
Chassis & Braking
The Armada’s chassis was a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust foundation for its size and weight. The suspension consisted of an independent double-wishbone front suspension and a solid rear axle with coil springs. The rear brakes were typically drum brakes, while the front brakes were ventilated discs. This configuration was adequate for the vehicle’s weight, but not as sophisticated as the four-wheel disc brake setups found on some competitors. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The Armada’s 4×4 system offered a variety of modes, including 2WD, 4H (high range), and 4L (low range), providing excellent off-road capability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Armada was generally well-received by critics as a capable and reliable full-size SUV. However, it often faced criticism for its relatively dated interior design and less-than-stellar fuel economy (around 13-18 mpg combined). Compared to the Toyota Sequoia and Chevrolet Tahoe, the Armada offered a competitive price point and a strong engine, but lacked the brand recognition and refinement of its rivals. The 5.6-liter V8 automatic combination was praised for its towing capacity and smooth operation, but some reviewers noted the transmission could feel sluggish at times. Reliability was generally considered good, with the VK56DE engine proving to be a durable and long-lasting powerplant.
Legacy
The first-generation Nissan Armada, particularly the 5.6-liter V8 automatic variant, has established a reputation as a dependable and capable SUV in the used car market. The VK56DE engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, can exceed 200,000 miles. While fuel economy remains a concern, the Armada’s spacious interior, strong towing capacity, and relatively affordable price make it an attractive option for families and those needing a robust SUV. The Armada’s simple mechanical design also makes it relatively easy and inexpensive to repair, further contributing to its appeal in the used car market. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues with the rear suspension and cooling system, which are common on older models.
