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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  Cant wait for the new model - 2004 Nissan Titan
  By TITIAN LOVER - July 18 - 1:16 am

  Great truck, lots of power, best space for a crew cab. No other crew cab truck came close to the interior space the titian has. I had a few problems with the truck, but all new vehicles have a few bugs when they first come out. The dealership has replaced all my rotors and brake pads, my center rear seat belt, differential cover because the 2004 models have the steal covers not the aluminum, (the aluminum one is on the 2005 and present models, slotted, so better for heat, and comes with synthetic differential oil) and my rear tweeters. Overall great truck

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  dealing with brakes - 2004 Nissan Titan
  By greg taylor - July 17 - 6:26 am

  About every 6,000 miles expect front brake work. The first time, new pads, resurface rotors. Second time,new pads,new rotors, with explaination that all parts are not avail. Third time new pads, resurface rotors. Still no "parts" to correctlly fix. I suspect that in about 2,000 miles Ill be back again. Only this time I am going to make the dealer replace this vehicle under Floridas Lemon Law. Other than that it is a great truck

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  Great truck, too many problems @6,000 mi - 2006 Nissan Titan
  By stoneman - July 12 - 5:43 pm

  Excellent looking, powerful, fun to drive truck. I get complimants almost daily about the looks. I currently have 6,000 miles, i have had all rotors and pads replaced as i had a nasty braking shimmey. Nissan had a service bulletin an this. Now my transmisson case is dripping fluid, my drivers window is loose and rattles when not shut tight. My one big disappointment when i purchesed it is it has no climate control, this is a $36,000 vehicle!! 2006 models no have it. I waited a model year before buying, i have contacted Nissan and am curious if i hear from them, other than that its back to the dealer for my newest repairs. I honestly love the truck!!!

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  MY EXPERIENCE - 2004 Nissan Titan
  By ROGER - July 10 - 7:06 pm

  Great engine sound. Very fast. Excellent exterior and exterior design. Lower than expected actual MPG. My only problems are the fact that the truck doesnt handle well on highway at fast speeds of 75-80MPH. I dont feel safe driving that speed in this truck but did so with ease in my previous truck hade by another company. Other complaints are radio controls, no rear defroster and no locking doors when truck is out of park. So far, everything else is GREAT!

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  3 year update - 2006 Nissan Titan
  By Tiny - July 9 - 1:26 am

  Its coming up to 3 yrs since I bought my Titan. The cabin is very comfy, seats are soft, leg room all around is fantastic. Loads of power from the big V8, the truck is quiet with a decent sound system and has lots of fun toys like the bluetooth and an ipod connect. It rides very well for big a truck, easy over the bumps but feels very rugged at the same time. Definitely underrated in the truck segment. I just turned 50,000 miles with ZERO problems. Im just now looking at purchasing new tires... GREAT TRUCK

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  Bill from NH - 2008 Nissan Titan
  By Bill Page - July 3 - 12:16 am

  The Titan is a vehicle that provides both comfort and as needed is a workhorse. As a general contractor, we have the bulk of materials delivered to the job site. What is left are the odd ball items, a few sheets of plywood, bath fixtures etc. Most of my truck cargo is tools for specific needs and random items. The Titan handles well does not feel as bulky as the Tundra. The 5 speed transmission is smooth shifting and takes fewer RPMs with the extra gear compared to the 4 speed GMCs. The firm suspension is welcome, not much off roading done but many expressway exit ramps and the Titan holds firm. Good interior, no manual needed for controls. The Titan is comfortable and a workhorse.

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  Nissan Got it Right - 2006 Nissan Titan
  By BiggCheddar - July 2 - 12:40 pm

  Nissan got it right when they built this truck. As a life-long F-150 man, I was skeptical getting into a different truck, but the Titan blew me away! The horsepower, towing capacity, handling and comfort are just as good or better than other full-size pick- ups. Plus, the sticker price is considerably less than other comparably- equipped pick-ups. I got a fully- loaded truck for thousands less than other manufacturers could offer. What a great truck!

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  A Cut Above The Klunkers - 2006 Nissan Titan
  By unclejay - July 2 - 5:40 am

  The Titan powertrain is so smooth and powerful, and has a marvelous sound, seems more like a Lexus or Infinity...until the rear suspension hits a bump. I know they need tough springs back there, but the rear ride is no better than a Ford. Cab is roomy, A/C is a little weak above 90 degrees you have to use max AC which is very noisy.

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  Reliable workhorse - 2008 Nissan Titan
  By Mr. T - July 1 - 1:40 am

  We found a Titan with 3600 miles on it & traded in a 2000 Chevy Tahoe. The Titan has been such a nice surprise for us. We tow a 6000lb RV and it blows our old Tahoe away with its towing capability. Smooth transmission and even better fuel mileage while towing vs. the Tahoe. As far as fuel economy goes, that too has been a pleasant surprise. Were getting about 15 to 15.5mpg in town driving. You have to keep your foot out of it for sure. Its actually a little better on fuel mileage than the Tahoe. I love the interior design & feel its definitely an improvement over the Tahoe workmanship. Smooth ride. Only downside is it is loud! I had the dealer switch out exhaust systems. All around we love this truck!

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  Loving every minute of it! - 2004 Nissan Titan
  By Sabre66 - June 30 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my Titan CC SE 4WD for 2 weeks now and havent stopped smiling since. Its big, but drives small. So much power at foot...and a smoother ride than my Pathfinder LE. The Crew Cab is huge! With the captains chairs theres still enough room for 5, plus all your gear. Much better interior and exterior than the domestic competition.