2011 Nissan Titan - Review

The Basics:

The Nissan Titan stands out from the crowd with styling that avoids the near-identical cues used by most other major truckmakers, paired with a strong V-8 engine. For 2011, that remains the same, with a few minor updates to trim lines and options packages. Aimed more at casual or recreational pickup users than the work-vehicle crowd, the Titan packs a handful of innovative features, and just a single engine choice.

The bold exterior styling of the Titan has proved it has long legs, running forward largely unchanged from its debut in 2004. Not everyone will love Nissan's take on the full-size truck, however.

While it doesn't boast the wide range of engine options found in many competitive lines, the 5.6-liter V-8 engine in the Titan offers plenty of pulling and hauling power, and matches well with the five-speed automatic transmission. Handling is especially good for a truck this size, and the PRO-4X version makes more serious off-road action possible.

The interior of the Titan hasn't aged as well as its exterior, with low-end materials and appearances dominating. Comfort and space are good, however, and overall build quality is generally solid.

Most pickups fare better in frontal than side-impact protection, and the Titan is no different. A strong selection of standard and available safety equipment makes the Titan about as safe as any other truck in its class.

Option packages and trim levels are the main point of differentiation for the single-powertrain Titan range, and the differences between the four models and several option packages are noticeable. Advanced technology isn't a forte, but Bluetooth phone connectivity, a DVD entertainment system, and XM Satellite Radio keep it in the 21st Century.

Fuel efficiency has never been a strong suit of full-size trucks, and with no choice but the one V-8 engine, the Titan is a truck for those that need the capability to haul and tow, not for those that want an efficient but roomy city truck.