Nissan is the latest entrant with its full-size Titan,
and unlike Toyota -- which had several false starts with its pickups
before hitting its stride with the Tundra -- Nissan has gotten the
formula right from the start.
In nearly all areas, the Titan is a robust load and
passenger carrier with plenty of utility features -- some unique
to Nissan -- and a beefy style. Nissan has wisely used the Titan
platform for its Armada and revamped Pathfinder SUVs.
Slip behind the wheel of the Titan -- or more correctly,
climb up into the Titan -- and it seems instantly familiar to anyone
who has driven a full-size pickup from Ford, Chevrolet/GMC or Dodge.
The over-the-hood view is commanding and there's a full array of
gauges. The center stack contains the standard air-conditioning
controls, as well as the stereo with CD.
The base XE model truck comes with a 40/20/40 split
bench seat, while the SE model comes with two captain's chairs
in the front, divided by a center console. The SE package also
includes power windows, locks and mirrors, as well as an overhead
console with storage and keyless entry. The top-of-the-line LE
adds power leather seats, integrated garage door opener and a
Rockford Fosgate stereo system.
Obviously the Titan isn't a bare-bones work truck,
even in base XE trim.
That's also evident in the engine compartment, where
only one engine is available -- a 5.6-liter, 32-valve aluminum
V8 that produces 305 horsepower, making it the most powerful standard
engine in any full-size pickup. It's connected to a five-speed
automatic transmission, the only gearbox choice.
It has a towing capacity of 9,500 pounds -- best
in class -- and a cargo bed capacity of 1,640 pounds, which is
about average for full-size V8 pickups.
Opt for the four-wheel-drive version, and there's
a transfer case for low- and high-speed driving. An optional off-road
package adds special gearing and larger tires with deeper tread
patterns.
Unlike Ford, Chevy and Dodge, there are only a limited
number of combinations of bed lengths, cabs and body styles. Basically,
the Titan comes in extended-cab or crew-cab body styles, in two-wheel-drive
or four-wheel-drive versions. But those choices cover the needs
of most buyers.
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2005 Nissan Titan King Cab
Click image for larger view
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Into those styles Nissan has incorporated several
unique features, the best of which is on the extended cab model,
called the King Cab.
Buyers who have ever tried to open the half-doors
in most extended cab pickups know that in tight spaces, such as
parking lots, they can make loading and unloading difficult. Nissan
designed the rear hinges on the Titan's doors so the doors open
180 degrees. Look for other companies to copy this idea.
Lockable small storage areas are on the exterior
of the cargo bed, perfect for things not wanted in the cab but
so small they would roll around in the pickup's bed.
The other good idea from Nissan is an optional spray-on
bed liner that's applied at the factory, which theoretically assures
uniform quality.
On the road, the Titan feels like a quality piece.
Its steering is tight and precise, making it quite maneuverable.
The four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic assists to
help in hard stops convey a reassuring sense when hauling this
big truck down from speed. Acceleration is sparkling, and the
305-horsepower V8 never seems to get short of breath.
As with most modern pickups, the Titan's ride approaches
sedan comfort on most roads. With no load in the bed, the Titan
doesn't bounce over road imperfections the way some other pickups
do.
Prices start at a little over $23,000 for the two-wheel-drive
XE and rise to more than $36,000 for a loaded four-wheel-drive
LE model. That's on a par with similar pickups, and dealers are
dealing down from the sticker prices.
With Ford F-150s and Chevrolet Silverados seemingly
on every street corner, the Nissan Titan is a worthwhile alternative
that even offers some things not available elsewhere.
Specifications:
| Base list price, including
delivery charge: |
$24,950 |
| Engine: |
5.6-liter V8 |
| Horsepower: |
305 @ 4,900 rpm |
| Transmission: |
5-speed automatic |
| Chassis: |
Rear-wheel-drive; Four-wheel-drive with two-speed
transfer case (opt.) |
| Basic warranty: |
3 years/36,000 miles |
| Fuel economy: |
14/19 mpg EPA est., 14 mpg observed |
| Factory to customer rebates:
|
$1,000 |
| Factory financing/lease:
|
2 percent financing |
-- Posted: Feb. 15, 2005
