2019 Nissan Titan Test Drive Review: Not Actually Titanic

The Nissan Titan has done reasonably well in the US market. But, it has a singular issue when it comes to marketing and breaking into the top-selling vehicles in America list that's owned by Ford, Chevy, and Ram trucks. The problem the Titan faces is that it's built by Nissan, a Japanese company. While that is far from a fundamental issue when it comes to building vehicles, American truck buyers want American trucks. That's why Nissan is so keen to tell us that its California-based studio designs the Titan, and it's built in Canton, Mississippi. Our Platinum Reserve model also laid heavy on the American theme with its interior and Fender branded sound system.

What's the Price of the 2019 Nissan Titan?

With a mountain of variables to work with, the Nissan Titan can cost anywhere from $30,690 to $57,840. The single Cab version is only available in S and SV trim; the 4x2 Single Cab S is the cheapest of the lot and will set you back $30,690, but upgrading to a 4x4 version will increase that price to $34,090. The most affordable King Cab on the block is the 4x2 S model that costs $33,960, and the most expensive will be the King Cab Pro-4X that retails for $44,880. The Crew Cab is the most costly body style but still offers a few affordable options. The least expensive Crew Cab will set you back $36,680, while the title of the most expensive Titan goes to the 4x4 Crew Cab Platinum Reserve at $57,840. All prices exclude destination and handling fees of $1,395.

Handling and Driving Impressions

While 0-60 mph time isn't fast, it does allow you to hustle around in truck terms when unloaded. The ride is perfectly comfortable if you're happy for it erring on the side of rugged, and handling isn't clumsy. In fact, handling may not be as confidence-inspiring on freeways and winding roads as an SUV but, in truck terms, nothing is a problem. Everything is civilized, and maneuvering is great in tight spots with plenty of visibility to help. In the cab, everything is laid out intuitively and polishes off the experience of a truck that's easy to live with for long periods at a time, whether through work or play.

Verdict: Is the 2019 Nissan Titan A Good Truck?

It's not just the Nissan badge that's been holding the Titan back in the US market. The American trucks genuinely do the whole package better. That said, the outgoing Titan does shine in crucial areas. The seats are incredibly comfortable and we could imagine that being a major selling point for someone that's going to spend a lot of time in the cab. The truck bed is a remarkably useful space, particularly with a few options ticked. The 5.6-liter V8 is a proven performer and, although the Titan's tow ratings aren't big enough to boast with the competition's, we all know there's more than enough pulling power for the majority of truck owners.

What Nissan Titan Model Should I Buy?

As with most trucks, you're buying a tool and it's a case of buying the best tool for the job. For work, unless budget is key, the SV model is close to an ideal balance of budget and features. Off-roaders in particular should be looking for a deal on the Pro-4X and the Pro-4X Utility Package as the 2020 refresh model approaches. We would skip the Platinum trim level as other trucks do it better, although maybe not the Fender audio system.

2019 Nissan Titan Comparisons

2019 Nissan Titan vs Toyota Tundra

The current generation Tundra has been around since 2014, and has proven to be a solid and reliable truck that's equally at home on the work site and mountain trail. Powered by a 5.7-liter V8, the Tundra produces similar power; there's 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque available, but suffers at the pumps with fuel consumption figures of 13/18/15 mpg city/highway/combined. The interior room is generous, especially in the front, but back seat passengers will feel more comfortable in the back of the Titan. The Tundra has a superior trailering capacity of 10,200 lbs, but isn't as safe as the Titan, scoring poorly on the IIHS test circuit. The Tundra starts off at a higher base cost but should retain its value better than the Nissan, which combined with superior reliability and capability sees it walks away the winner of this comparison.

2019 Nissan Titan vs Ford F-150

The almighty F-150 holds a special place in the hearts and minds of the American people, and for a good reason. It's an affordable, dependable, and practical truck that can be a workhorse, family transporter or off-road monster depending on the wants and desires of the individual. The F-150's most comparable engine is a 5.0-liter V8 that pushes a high 395 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. Despite the small power advantage, the F-150 consumes the same amount of gas at 16/22/18 mpg. Where the F-150 outshines the Titan is in its versatility; there are five engine options available including a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, a 3.3 V6 and a diesel V6. The F-150 offers more in terms of safety features, tech, and interior build quality, and the ride is better as well. Where the Titan claws back some territory is with its affordable asking price and a great warranty.