Although Nissan's Titan remains relatively unchanged for the 2010 model year, a powerful V-8 engine, likable ride, and a stylish and functional cab make it tough to beat.
I like Titan's tough-looking, muscular stance. If you're in the market for a new truck, you should definitely take a close look at the Titan.
You have to check out Titan's available bed features, too. My tester featured a great-looking factory-applied spray-on bedliner, Nissan's innovative Utili-Track channel system with four adjustable tie-down cleats, tailgate area lighting, lockable bedside storage and a tailgate assist strut that makes it easy to open and close the tailgate.
There are four different bed lengths available depending on whether you choose a King Cab or Crew Cab model. The King Cab can be had with a 6.5-foot or 8-foot bed while Crew Cab buyers can choose between a 5.5-foot or 7-foot bed.
With a trailer tow rating of 9,500 pounds for King Cab models (100 pounds less for Crew Cab) and a nifty functional bed, the Titan is ready to tow and haul your gear.
Titan is available with either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive and four trim levels. There's a special Pro-4X trim level (4WD only) that comes set up for off-road enthusiasts with Rancho shocks, heavy-duty skid plates, a lower final-drive ratio, all-terrain tires and a push-button rear-locking differential.
Powering all Titans is a muscular 5.6-liter V-8 engine that belts out 317 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque. The only transmission available is a smooth-shifting five-speed automatic with a selectable tow/haul mode.
Titan's 5.6-liter V-8 is strong and delivers excellent power for taking off from a dead stop and for passing. As expected, though, the big V-8 is a bit thirsty and could benefit from a cylinder deactivation system to improve fuel economy while cruising without a load.
For a full-size truck, Titan rides like a dream. My
2010 Nissan Titan King Cab 4x4 Pro-4X tester delivered an impressive refined feel while cruising around town and on the highway. The cabin lets in very little noise and the suspension tuning of my Pro-4X tester wasn't too harsh for on-road driving.
While I didn't get the opportunity to take my tester off-road, I know from past experiences that Titan is plenty capable and confident off the pavement, too.
Titan's cabin is roomy and comfortable regardless of whether you choose the King Cab or Crew Cab. Titans with front bucket seats (a bench seat is available) feature a large center console that holds a variety of beverages, including a one-liter bottle.
The console offers a variety of storage choices with size adjusted by simply removing or adding dividers. The console's storage box can also accommodate hanging file folders.
Audiophiles will like the optional Rockford Fosgate premium audio system with eight speakers and a subwoofer.
I also liked the instrument panel that featured gauges for water temperature, oil pressure, battery voltage and transmission temperature.
While Titan doesn't give you as many drivetrain choices as some of its competitors, it provides plenty of power for hauling and towing, a spacious cabin with room for up to six adults, innovative design features and one of the smoothest rides in the segment.\
2010 NISSAN TITAN KING CAB 4x4 PRO-4XENGINE: 317-horsepower 5.6-liter V-8
TRANSMISSION: five-speed automatic
DRIVETRAIN: four-wheel drive
FUEL ECONOMY: 12 city/17 highway
BASE PRICE: $34,050
AS TESTED: $36,815 (including $800 for destination)
WEB SITE: www.NissanUSA.com