2008 Nissan Titan

If any vehicle these days is aptly named, it's Nissan's full-size pickup truck. Introduced for the 2005 model year, the Titan is, well, virtually titanic in dimensions. Actual measurements might not differ much from those of rival pickups, wearing import or domestic nameplates, but nearly every Titan looks the part of an imposing truck. This fourth season for Titan is a "minor change year," said marketing manager Orth Hedrick. Even so, three new models have been added to the lineup.

Styling

Two of them are long-wheelbase models: Crew Cab with a 7-ft.-3-in. cargo bed, and King Cab with an 8-foot bed. In the Titan's first years, Nissan missed the "work truck user," Hedrick said. Those people really need an 8-foot bed. Nissan advises that its 7'-3" bed is the longest one in the Crew Cab segment. Long-wheelbase models have a 37-gallon fuel tank, and probably need it, too.


Named PRO-4X, the third new model is something different: an off-road machine aimed at the "sport truck enthusiast." Available with either a King Cab or Crew Cab, like other Titan models, the specialty PRO-4X pickup comes only with four-wheel drive and a standard-length cargo bed. Rancho performance shock absorbers are installed, along with additional skid plates and a "class-exclusive" electronic locking rear differential.


Nissan claims a "significant change in NVH" (noise, vibration and harshness) for all 2008 Titans. All models get a new brake package, including bigger front rotors. A new grille and headlamps highlight the revised 2008 front end. Larger standard wheels are mounted, including 20-inch alloys on LE models. Other models ride on 18-inch tires.

Performance

Titan's lineup starts with the moderately priced XE, rising to an SE and the new PRO-4X. The top-of-the-line LE is more abundantly equipped than before, with XM satellite radio, Bluetooth hands-free phone operation, and wood appearance trim inside. In addition to the new extended-length cargo beds for long-wheelbase models, 5'-6" and 6'-6" beds are available.