When it’s all said & done: Two outta three ain't bad
Yes, an awesome ride. Yes, an appealing look. The Titan proves itself to be a strong contender in the full-size truck market. We think Nissan nailed it in all ways--except one: that pesky fuel economy. While we love the flex-fuel ability that Nissan offers in the Titan, we can't help but be pained with fuel economy that never broke the low to mid teens. That big V-8 sucks fuel at an astounding rate--and sure, if you've got heavy-duty work to do, that's understandable.
Yet if you're going to drive this big boy in between hauling bales of hay and horses, it sure would be nice to have cylinder deactivation—or really any type meaningful technology that could seriously improve efficiency and stretch each gallon of fuel for all its worth. With all the bells and whistles that are being added to the newest model year trucks, we can't help but wonder why more emphasis isn’t placed on developing more economy-enhancing tricks. In a day and age when everyone needs to be paying attention to how much fuel they are using, anything engineers can do to extract a little extra thrift from drivetrains truly helps. But fuel usage issues aside, the Titan truly lives up to its namesake based in Greek mythology: It truly is a truck of importance and great strength.
Pros:
- Excellent ride and handling
- Powerful and work oriented
- Flex-fuel capability
Cons:
- Disappointing fuel economy
- Wish it had a continuously variable transmission
- No cylinder deactivation or relative technology
Details and Specs:
Technical Features: 5.6-liter DOHC V-8, 5-speed automatic transmission with tow-haul mode, 4-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking system, 2WD or part time 4WD system with electronic locking differential, 2-speed transfer case with 4-low and high, flex-fuel capability, LEV1-ULEV emissions
Safety Features: driver and front passenger air bags (SRS), advanced air bag system (AABS), seat belt sensors and occupant classification sensor, LATCH system for children, child safety rear door locks
Interior Features: remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD6 8 speaker audio system,12V power point outlets
Exterior Features: heated power adjustable mirrors,PRO-4X utility bed package: C-channel w/ tie-downs, bed side storage, rear bed lighting and 12V power point, spray-on bedliner