Overview & Reviews

The Nissan Titan, introduced for 2004, was the first Japanese pickup to truly possess the attributes that buyers typically expect from a full-size truck. Manufactured at Nissan's Canton, Mississippi, plant, it boasts dimensions and capabilities that are very similar to those of domestic full-size pickups. Though it hasn't sold as well as its rivals and is now growing quite long in the tooth, a new or used Nissan Titan can still meet the basic needs of many truck shoppers.

Current Nissan Titan
The Nissan Titan is a full-size pickup truck. In terms of size, it's very similar to the trucks offered by domestic automakers, which means it provides competitive amounts of cargo and interior room. There's a fully boxed frame underneath for maximum rigidity and strength, as well as a traditional solid rear axle with leaf-spring support.

Nissan currently offers the Titan in extended-cab (King Cab) and crew-cab styles, with two bed lengths each. Buyers may also choose between standard- and long-wheelbase versions, with the latter adding 20 inches in length. The King Cab is offered with either a 6.5- or 8-foot bed, while those on the crew cab are each 1 foot shorter. The King Cab's rear-hinged doors open extra wide to aid cargo loading or a passenger's entry to the rear seats. The crew cab has four traditional doors and a larger rear seating area with more available rear legroom than the extended cab.

Each Nissan Titan body style is available in four trim levels. Similar to other Nissan products, there's the entry-level S, the midgrade SV, off-road-focused PRO-4X and the luxury-oriented SL. The S has a front bench seat, while captain's chairs with a flow-through console are standard on the other trims. Standard safety features now include stability control, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags. Notable options, depending on trim, include upgraded audio systems, a navigation system, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and utility-enhancing cargo bed features. For those who anticipate pulling trailers, the SV Value Truck or SL Max Utility tow packages are also available.

The PRO-4X trim level adds equipment for serious off-roaders that include Rancho shocks, a lower final-drive ratio, skid plates, an electronic locking differential and 18-inch off-road wheels with aggressive off-road tires. Unique exterior and interior styling cues to differentiate the PRO-4X from the other Titan models are also included.

For power, Nissan offers only one combination: a 5.6-liter V8 connected to a five-speed automatic transmission. The V8 is rated at 317 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque. The transmission features a tow/haul mode for when the truck is used for pulling or carrying heavy loads. For every body style and trim combination, two- or four-wheel drive is available.

In Nissan Titan reviews, our editors have found it to be powerful and capable both on- and off-road. Downsides include a lack of additional powertrain choices and the absence of a heavy-duty model. The Titan has also been outclassed by newer competitors in terms of comfort and overall design. Still, we think Nissan's Titan is worth a look.

Used Nissan Titan Models
The current, first-generation Titan debuted for 2004, and these earlier trucks could be a good choice for a shopper searching for a used late-model pickup. The first couple of production years, in particular, outclassed domestic pickups in many ways. The most notable changes for the Nissan Titan came for the 2008 model year and included the addition of a long-wheelbase model, exterior and interior styling refreshes and new features. Models built for 2007 and earlier were available in one wheelbase length only, lacked the two different bed lengths for each body style and also had a reduced maximum payload.

It should be noted that stability control, side airbags and side curtain airbags were not standard on all Titans until 2010. Used shoppers should investigate whether the truck in question is equipped with them. Also, the current trim levels were introduced for the 2011 model year; previously, the Titan's three main trims were XE, SE and LE, though feature content was broadly comparable.

User Reviews:

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  Best truck for the money, hands down! - 2004 Nissan Titan
  By Brian - October 15 - 1:10 am

  I did a lot of research before buying the Titan in its first production year. Its almost 2 years now and I still find my self looking at it as if I just bought it. I have taken many long trips in it and I cannot remember a more comfortable vehicle. The power of the 5.6 Endurance is impressive and makes the Titan very fun to drive. Mileage isnt the greatest, but then its a truck, not an economy car.

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  Beats up American Trucks - 2008 Nissan Titan
  By maschneid - October 13 - 11:16 pm

  I love my titan! I have owned it for a year now, and its still running like new! It has tons of power, and will eat most American trucks off the line. Traveled from MS to OK to TX and back and wasnt fatigued at all, very comfortable ride. I have eased off the gas pedal alittle and usually get around 15-16 city, and 18-19 hwy. I have towed boats, trailers with no problems what so ever. All in all the only thing I wouldve changed would be to get the 4x4 model for when I go up to MN in the snowy winters thats all. Great Truck at a better price than youll find at the competitors!

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  titans are the best trucks - 2006 Nissan Titan
  By Skylor - October 11 - 12:30 pm

  The handling and performance of the nissan titan are flat out amazing. I love it. The stereo system and dual climate control and all the bells and whistles are amazing. I love the truck and plan to keep it for a long long time.

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  Wouldnt own another Nissan - 2004 Nissan Titan
  By Rohr - October 7 - 10:56 am

  This truck has numerous recalls. I had to replace the entire rearend because Nissan couldnt replace leaking rear axle seals. They replaced it with a rearend from a newer year. $2700. Fuse box went bad. $425. Never had that happen before. Have to press gas pedal to start it now. Nissan has no idea whats wrong. Interior light problems. Electric window problems. 4x4 sensor problems. Front seats falling apart.

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  Better Than Expected! - 2006 Nissan Titan
  By wward - October 1 - 1:30 pm

  I own an auto repair business and was looking for a new personal truck. This truck is amazing. It sets the bar a lot higher for the other truck makers. Ride, performance, ease of service, etc.

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  Great Truck - 2006 Nissan Titan
  By bretp007 - September 25 - 8:56 pm

  I never have owned a truck before, but if youre looking at buying one, consider the Titan. Fun to drive, lots of power and nice to look at. One of the best trucks ive ever ridden in.

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  Plenty of truck - 2010 Nissan Titan
  By mark - September 24 - 10:00 am

  I am very impressed and pleased after the first 500 miles of driving this truck. It has a nice smooth ride, has plenty of power, and a comfortable, spacious cabin. My previous truck was a 2006 Chevy Silverado Z-71, and thus far I prefer the Titan. Before buying, I test drove the new F 150, Tundra, and the 2010 Silverado. I stopped looking after driving the Titan. It is averaging slightly over 17 mpg on the highway, which is acceptable for a new truck, and considering the power that this truck has. The SE package has all the features that I want, and is a sharp looking truck. If you want a nice, capable truck, I suggest to anyone that they give the Titan a look.

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  Truthful - 2006 Nissan Titan
  By Kent Higgins - September 17 - 11:16 pm

  No problems at all accept the Sirrus Satelite Radio has been a constant problem of failures. The vehicle has been a wonderful experience otherwise. Gas milage and performance is beyond expectations. The handling is above par and I would buy again. Took me months to purchase as I tried them all. Many over and over. Tried this vehicle one time and my choice was made.

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  Titanium Tough - 2004 Nissan Titan
  By JG ATVS - September 15 - 10:00 am

  I have approx.2000 miles on the truck and the acceleration,torque and towing capability is great.The mpgs is a little lower than expected but the ride, handling and interior features are excellent.Would recommend truck to anyone.

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  28,000 MISTAKE - 2004 Nissan Titan
  By in2tv - September 15 - 10:00 am

  I beleive I made a 28,000.00 mistake. After test driving the truck on a smooth highway, I decided, well it a little stiff but power makes up for it. But now I am driving it everyday on the 10 FWY in the San Gabriel Valley and I am practically being tossed out of my seat. The ride is extremely rough and harsh. Yes I have already checked the tire pressure!!