2004-2008 Nissan Titan: Road Test

Titan's smooth, powerful V8 puts it among quickest large trucks off the line. There's ample passing power and a competitive 9500-lb towing capacity. The responsive transmission upshifts smoothly and downshifts promptly. Titan is thirsty, however. A Consumer Guide test 4WD XE Crew Cab averaged 14.5 in mixed city/highway use, and just 12.1 mpg in exclusively city driving. Titan's ride is always firm, and becomes choppy over broken surfaces. But Titan is relatively easy to drive and maybe the most nimble big pickup. Inside, road, engine, and wind noise nicely muted, but constant exhaust rumble can be tiring on long highway drives. Drivers will find large, simple gauges that are easy to read, and generously sized controls. Interior assembly quality is solid enough, but the lightweight plastic bin covers are a disappointment. Cabin materials are serviceable on XE and SE models, almost plush on LE. Some testers found the bench seat too flat and firm for long-trip comfort, but all agree the available buckets are substantial, supportive. Head and leg room ample either way. A high step-in means grabbing the steering wheel or assist handle to ease entry. In back, King Cabs have acceptable knee room if the front seats not more than halfway back. Crews have generous legroom. Three adults fit in either, but two are less crowded. Some testers find the Crew Cab seatback too upright, and lacking in thigh support. The King Cab rear doors open an impressive 180 degrees, allowing for great access in tight parking spaces. Lots of bins and cup holders in both cab styles, but the bench seat's center-armrest cubby has a large, cumbersome lid. Crew Cabs have a near-flat rear floor and fold-up rear-seat cushion to provide outstanding in-cab storage. The locking fender compartment, tailgate cargo-bed lighting, and track tie-down system are added cargo-management assets.

Value for the Money
Titan is strong competition for large domestic pickups in performance, comfort, utility, and available safety features. Some buyers may miss the regular-length cab and longer cargo beds available from Ford, GM, and Dodge, but this brawny Nissan offers plenty to like.