2021 Nissan Titan XD Review: Tenderfoot Titan

When it comes to overcoming the drudgery of the daily grind, the versatility and capability of heavy-duty pickup trucks set them worlds apart from any other vehicle. Though touted as the compeer to the Ford F-250, Ram 2500, and Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, the 2021 Nissan Titan XD doesn't quite win the hearts of long-time pickup aficionados. With a 400-horsepower naturally aspirated V8 under the hood that only musters up 413 lb-ft of torque, the Titan XD pickup truck can't haul or tow close to what its esteemed competitors can. It is a good-looking vehicle, however, with its ruggedly handsome design and commanding presence, and it delivers an impressively composed and refined driving experience, too. With that said, a statuesque presence and authoritative bearing are inherent in all HD pickup trucks, and while the 2021 Nissan Titan XD does have some compelling and novel perks over its contemporaries, it's deficient in the aspects that truly define what a good heavy-duty pickup truck is: versatility and capability.

Titan XD Exterior

Dimensions

Titan XD Performance

Engine and Transmission

Beneath the colossal hood of the 2021 Titan XD is a herculean 5.6-liter DOHC V8 engine that's been dialed to muster up to 400 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. All that power is commanded by a 9-speed automatic transmission and forwarded through to the Titan's all-wheel-drive system. For 2021, this is the only setup available as the diesel engine and rear-wheel drivetrain have been discontinued. As such, you'll need to be prepared for the hefty fuel bills. With its Bilstein shocks and rear differential, the Pro-4X is the most proficient off-roader from the line, but with a two-speed transfer case coming standard across the board, all of the other models still display some decent capability. This is not the case in terms of towing, however, with properly equipped Titan XD pickup trucks managing only a 10,880-pound towing capacity, which increases to just 11,040-lbs with the gooseneck hitch.

Titan XD Interior

Titan XD Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

Verdict: Is the 2021 Nissan Titan XD A Good Truck?

Within the heavy-duty truck arena, the 2021 Nissan Titan XD is a complicated review due to the fact that it drives more like a car than a clunky truck but doesn't quite match up to its competitors when it comes to HD workhorse capabilities. To some, a large, commanding truck that delivers solid performance, light handling, and a fairly refined ride is merit enough, but as a truck that's meant to contend in the duty-driven HD classification, the Titan XD simply misses the mark. It is barely more capable than the light-duty Titan.

The first-gen Titan XD is compelling in many respects, from its commanding presence and commodious and featureful interior to its easy-going handling and refined on-road ride quality. The latter qualities set it apart from the competition. Even so, light-duty trucks still prove to be significantly more nimble and comfortable on the road so if those are qualities that you're prioritizing, you're better off looking there. As a heavy-duty pickup, the Titan XD disappoints in almost every regard. There are no alternate cabin or cargo bed configurations offered and its maximum towing capacity is far lower than what its rivals. It is simply too niche to be widely popular.

If you're into the Nissan Titan's design and strong brand affiliation, then consider going for the regular light-duty Titan, which handles better, rides smoother, and can still tow a decent amount - only around 2,000 lbs less than the XD. There are far more well-rounded and capable 4-door heavy-duty pickup trucks on the US market that are offered at the same price as the 2021 Nissan Titan XD pickup.

What Nissan Titan XD Model Should I Buy?

With most pickup trucks in the heavy-duty classification, you get to spec your truck from a selection of cabin and cargo bed configurations and towing capacity limits, but the only factor that differentiates each Titan model is their features. With its $45,430 tag, the entry-spec S is relatively expensive as is, so if you're going to be spending big money, we'd suggest going for one of the top-spec models in the line. Both the SL and the Platinum Reserve come outfitted with the most enticing features, including a driver-side memory system, front-seat heating, captain's chairs, leather seating upholstery, and a surround-view camera. If you're looking for the most proficient off-roader from the Titan XD pickup truck line, then you'll have to opt for the Pro-4X, which comes equipped with Bilstein off-road shocks and a rear differential.