Nissan’s 2020 Titan truck lineup is updated and better than ever

As I meandered through the prairies and eventually off-pavement in Nissan’s 2020 model year Titan trucks, I couldn’t help but appreciate how a company who has dealt with the amount of corporate turmoil it’s gone through these past 12 months has managed to get through all that and produce its finest full-sized truck to date.

The 2020 version of Nissan’s venerable Titan truck has changed…and in a good way. More power, better safety features, and intelligently integrated technology provides the driver with an exceptional platform that’s agile both on and off-pavement, as well as versatile for payloads or towing scenarios that require full-sized capability.

A 5.6L V8 powertrain producing 400hps and 413 lb-ft. torque, mated to an expanded drivetrain that’s now 9-speed with a wider ratio transmission, is more fuel efficient and adapts to how you’re driving the truck. This was evident while driving the XD model of the Titan with a 35′ camper trailer in tow along inclines and subsequent declines where the transmission electronically drops gear and utilizes engine braking to minimize how much foot break is used under heavy loads. An integrated trailer brake controller can accommodate a variety of loads and with up to 11,000lbs of towing capacity available in the XD model (the standard Titan can handle up to 9,300lbs), these trucks can handle nearly any type of vehicle-based adventure you’re planning.

Regarding models available, the Titan and Titan XD each have several grade packages available including a top-tier trim Platinum Reserve. The Titan XD was historically known as Nissan’s 5/8 ton truck but is now being highlighted as a truck more appropriate for those who will be towing heavier loads (up to 11,000lbs). The XD features a full length, fully boxed ladder frame, a commercial grade differential, heavy duty brakes, heavy duty suspension, and integrated gooseneck hitch. It also features a higher capacity payload of 2,450lbs versus the 1,680lbs available in the Titan version.

The SL package is the standard, base model but there’s nothing standard about the SL. Featuring the same 5.6L V8 and 9-speed tranny as all other models in the line-up, the SL also comes with Nissan’s SSS 360 (Standard Safety Shield) which includes automatic emergency braking, front and rear, when the truck detects an object in its vicinity, rear cross traffic alert when backing out of a parking spot, blind spot warning, and lane departure. These systems provide a semi-autonomous platform that functions beautifully in any urban environment with certain systems capable of being turned off with the tap of a button while driving off-road. SL also comes with LED cargo lighting, 20″ chrome wheels, chrome grille, and other chrome enhancements on the exterior with black leather seats which I found to be super comfortable, a Fender sound system that’s crisp and clear and controlled via an 8″ display (the largest currently available standard from any truck manufacturer), wood finish, and a heated steering wheel. There’s also a patented cell phone cradle integrated in the center console area that eliminates the frustration of figuring out where to place your mobile device. It’s simple yet highly functional and can hold two cell phones or iPad (or equivalent). The only thing it lacks is a charging dock within the cradle though there are plenty of USB and 12V charging outlets throughout the front and rear of the cab. Compared to base models from other OEMs, the Nissan Titan sets a new standard.

The PRO-4X is Nissan’s off-road platform and features an electronic locking rear differential, hill descent control, front skid plate, 18″ wheels, tow hooks, and a purpose-built Bilstein suspension. Available in both the Titan and Titan XD versions, the PRO-4X is, in my opinion, a highly underrated full-size truck for vehicle-based and overland travel. Outfitted with selectable low range via a turn knob and a locking rear differential that provides plenty of torque at the rear when you need it most, this truck not only performs well but looks fantastic. The interior is one of the most nicely laid out in this segment, rivaled only by Ram, with a large 8″ (or optional 9″) display and controls intuitively placed and useable without having to grab the owner manual to figure out how buttons work or where specific features are located. The seats are super comfortable and available in a camo cloth or PRO-4X embroidered leather with rubber PRO-4X floor mats included to keep your carpet relatively clear of mud, dirt, grime, and other unwanted debris especially when off-pavement. To say I dig this truck is an understatement.

Finally, the Platinum Reserve model is Nissan’s luxury iteration for the Titan. Featuring a host of accoutrements including a satin chrome grille, 20″ dark painted and machine clad wheels that might very well be the nicest OEM truck wheels on the market, illuminated chrome running boards, premium leather and beautiful wood inserts throughout the interior, chrome accents throughout, and driver/passenger heated/cooled seats, the Platinum Reserve combines form with function in a very tasteful way. Additionally, a dual panoramic sunroof is available as an option on both the Platinum Reserve and PRO-4X models. I’m not one who’s particularly crazy about sunroofs, particularly in trucks, but will note the panoramic sunroof in the Titan and Titan XD is huge and provides a nice, complimentary ambiance to the truck’s interior.

Pricing on the 2020 Titan and Titan XD starts at $36,190 for the King Cab Titan and works its way up to $61,690 in the Crew Cab XD Platinum Reserve. With the variety of standard options on the 2020 Titan lineup, this pricing is below that of comparably equipped trucks in the Ford and Ram lineup. The 2020 Titan is the real deal, fully capable under duress with heavy loads, exploring off the grid, or heading to the local grocery store. Its full-sized platform is refined, capable, and is undoubtedly one that may not have been previously on your list but should undoubtedly now be one that stands near the top.

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