• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Auto Trends Magazine

Car reviews, industry news, & advice.

You are here: Home / New Vehicle Reviews / Initial Analysis: 2016 Nissan Titan XD Crew Cab

Initial Analysis: 2016 Nissan Titan XD Crew Cab

December 4, 2015 by admin 3 Comments

The full-size pickup truck segment just got interesting. Again.

2016 Nissan XD Crew Cab
2016 Nissan XD Crew Cab

Put the words “Nissan” and “pickup truck” together and invariably the Nissan Frontier comes to mind. The Frontier is a midsize pickup truck and the successor to various Nissan or Datsun trucks built since the 1950s and on sale across the US since the early 1970s.

Full-Size Pickup Trucks

What model may be easily overlooked is the Nissan Titan, a full-size pickup truck introduced in 2004 and overshadowed by the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, Ram 1500, and even the Toyota Tundra. It was the first full-bodied pickup truck built by a manufacturer outside of the Detroit Three, but it simply hasn’t captured anywhere near the level of interest enjoyed by its top competitors.

Indeed, a recent examination of this model’s sales figures disclosed that Nissan sells about 12,000 units per year. Its top three competitors sell that many trucks every one or two weeks, thus the Nissan Titan just hasn’t been a consideration for most truck buyers.

Nissan’s lack of success in this area can be attributed to a few things, including a paucity of model choices — crew and extended cabs only, with two bed choices — and a vehicle that hasn’t been significantly changed since its introduction. Look up the expression “long in the tooth” and a picture of a Nissan Titan just might pop up.

2016 Nissan XD Crew Cab

An All-New Nissan Titan and Titan XD

A new day has dawned for the Nissan Titan as its second-generation, 2016 model year pickup truck arrives to the market. In early December, Nissan hosted automotive experts from across the US near Phoenix, Arizona, to showcase one version of the new vehicle.

On hand was the Titan XD Crew Cab, an all-new model that sits somewhere between medium- and heavy-duty status. Specifically, it occupies the middle area of the two segments, or the underserved “white space” Nissan has identified as ripe for the taking.


See Also — Ram Chassis Cab is Here and Brings With it Class-Leading Numbers


No, the Titan XD doesn’t match the heavy-duty status of the top models from Ram, Chevrolet and GMC, and Ford, rather it is aimed at those truck buyers who need upwards of 12,000 pounds of towing capacity and aren’t interested in paying a premium for models capable of pulling upwards of 17,000 pounds. Medium+ or Standard+ are two names that might be ascribed to the new model.

2016 Nissan Titan XD Crew Cab

Engine by Cummins, Transmission by Aisin

That extended towing capacity comes from a Cummins-supplied engine, the first turbo-diesel from this engine manufacturer not found under the hood of a Dodge or a Ram product. The 5.0-liter, V-8 engine makes 310 horsepower and 555 foot-pounds of torque, the latter reached at 1,600 rpm. It comes paired with a 6-speed Aisin-supplied automatic transmission.

However, that diesel engine is an option and will be available only with the Titan XD (Auto Trends has confirmed that a gas-powered, 5.6 liter V-8 arrives later). The half-ton standard Titan model — built on a completely separate chassis, by the way —will be powered by a 3.5-liter, V-6 gasoline engine or the gas V-8. Both Titan versions are available in 4×2 and 4×4 configurations.

Rolling Product Releases

So, what you have is essentially two different, but similar trucks sporting the Titan name, with Nissan taking a two-prong approach last seen when Ford had both the F-100 and F-150 on the market more than three decades ago.

Production for the turbo-diesel XD is currently underway, with the gasoline version following a few months later. By next summer, the standard Titan pickup truck will bow, essentially giving Nissan at least three new product releases for its big pickup trucks.

2016 Nissan Titan XD Crew Cab

First Impressions

In the meantime, Nissan provided ample time for journalists to run the truck through the paces. And those paces included highway driving, navigating a pair of off-road courses, and taking in a trailering segment.

The Nissan Titan XD Crew Cab shined in all areas. From its beefier stance to its aggressive front fascia, to its roomier and more upscale interior, and on to its on- and off-road capabilities, Nissan has a premium truck that will appeal to far more buyers than the previous model ever did. At least that is my opinion.

The Cummins engine is robust and it is also uncommonly quiet for a diesel. The suspension system is firm, yet the truck provides a very comfortable ride. In off-road comparison testing with models from other manufacturers, we found that the Nissan handled the course capably as well as in comfort.

Ascending a 45-degree incline was no problem for this truck. There is no crawl control feature nor do you need one — by simply matching the truck’s speed with your normal walking speed, it took on several hills with ease. Notably, the test trucks were outfitted with standard tires, thus there was no added benefit of all-terrain rubber.

2016 Nissan Titan XD Crew Cab

Estimated Pricing and Key Features

Nissan has generously equipped the Titan XD, with prices ranging from about $40,000 to $60,000. Five grades are available — S, SV, PRO-4X, SL, and Platinum Reserve. Single, extended and crew cab models as well as three bed choices (5.5-, 6.5, and 8-feet) can be had. Official prices will be released near the first of the year.

Other features of the 2016 Nissan Titan XD include standard or available remote start, keyless entry, push button start, a 4-spoke ergonomic steering wheel, zero gravity seats, LED signature headlamps, running boards, multiple cargo management options including under the rear seat, a bed management system, and new in-bed storage compartments.

Additional features include an on-column transmission shifter, automatic dual-zone climate control, multiple power points (12-volt, 120-volt and USB), climate-controlled front seats, heated rear seats, and NissanConnect services. A Rockford Fosgate audio system returns as well.

2016 Nissan Titan XD Crew Cab

The Bottom Line

The Titan XD turbo-diesel is the halo model for the product range according to Nissan. The truck is a beast and that is a very good thing — whether that translates into strong sales remains to be seen. What is beyond dispute is that Nissan now has a robust entrant in the segment along with an engine choice that no competitor can claim.

2016 Nissan Titan XD Crew Cab

  • Model range price $40,000 to $60,000 (estimated)
  • Seats 5 or 6
  • 5.0-liter V-8 turbo diesel engine
  • 310 horsepower @ 3,200 rpm
  • 555 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,600 rpm
  • 3.70 inches bore by 3.54 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 16.3-to-1
  • 6-speed automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 151.6 inches
  • Length: 242.7 inches
  • Width: 80.7 inches
  • Height: 78.7 inches
  • Passenger volume: TBD
  • Towing capacity: NR
  • Fuel Economy: Approximately 20 mpg (observed)
  • Fuel tank: 26 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 6,709 to 7,480 pounds
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Canton, Miss.


See Also — Fresh Conception: 2017 Nissan Titan Pickup Truck


2016 Nissan Titan XD Crew Cab photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Filed Under: New Vehicle Reviews Tagged With: 2016 trucks, 4x2, 4x4, 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, AISIN, CREW CAB, Cummins, Nissan Titan XD, turbo-diesel

About admin

Matt Keegan has maintained his love for cars ever since his father taught him kicking tires can be one way to uncover a problem with a vehicle’s suspension system. He since moved on to learn a few things about coefficient of drag, G-forces, toe-heel shifting, and how to work the crazy infotainment system in some random weekly driver. Matt is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association and is a contributor to various print and online media sources.

Reader Interactions

Trackbacks

  1. US Auto Trends for 2015 and Beyond says:
    April 12, 2017 at 8:20 am

    […] an all-new Nissan Titan will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in a few weeks, the […]

    Log in to Reply
  2. Bigly Pickup Truck: Nissan Titan Crew Cab says:
    April 19, 2017 at 1:00 pm

    […] spent ample time driving and reviewing both the Titan XD and the Titan. If you follow these pages, you already are familiar with my explanation outlining […]

    Log in to Reply
  3. Nissan Strikes Back With Frontier Diesel Runner says:
    April 20, 2017 at 9:03 am

    […] See Also — Initial Analysis: 2016 Nissan Titan XD Crew Cab […]

    Log in to Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Primary Sidebar

Recent Posts

  • A Look Back at the Ford Mustang II
  • New Duck-Billed Post Office Trucks Has Some People Quacking
  • Vroom! Lexus Reveals the IS 500 F Sport.
  • Introducing the Kia Carnival MPV
  • Goodyear, Cooper Tire to Join Forces

Recent Comments

  • Compact Performance:2021 Cadillac CT4-V — Auto Trends Magazine on Cadillac V-Series Blackwing Preview!
  • About the Fox-Body Ford Mustang — Auto Trends Magazine on Top Down Steed: Ford Mustang GT Premium Convertible
  • About the Fox-Body Ford Mustang — Auto Trends Magazine on A Look Back at the Ford Mustang II
  • 5 Forgettable Cars From the 1970s — Auto Trends Magazine on A Look Back at the Ford Mustang II
  • A Look Back at the Ford Mustang II — Auto Trends Magazine on Book Review: Mustang by Design

Archives

  • February 2021
  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • August 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • January 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • August 2015
  • July 2015
  • June 2015
  • May 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • February 2015
  • January 2015
  • December 2014
  • November 2014
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • August 2014
  • July 2014
  • June 2014
  • May 2014
  • April 2014
  • March 2014
  • February 2014
  • January 2014
  • December 2013
  • November 2013
  • October 2013
  • September 2013
  • August 2013
  • July 2013
  • June 2013
  • May 2013
  • April 2013
  • March 2013
  • February 2013
  • January 2013
  • December 2012
  • November 2012
  • October 2012
  • September 2012
  • August 2012
  • July 2012
  • June 2012
  • May 2012
  • April 2012
  • March 2012
  • February 2012
  • January 2012
  • December 2011
  • November 2011
  • October 2011
  • September 2011
  • August 2011
  • July 2011
  • June 2011
  • May 2011
  • April 2011
  • March 2011
  • February 2011
  • January 2011
  • December 2010
  • November 2010
  • October 2010
  • September 2010
  • August 2010
  • July 2010
  • June 2010
  • May 2010
  • April 2010
  • March 2010
  • February 2010
  • January 2010
  • December 2009
  • November 2009
  • October 2009
  • September 2009
  • August 2009
  • July 2009
  • June 2009
  • May 2009
  • April 2009
  • March 2009
  • February 2009
  • January 2009
  • December 2008
  • November 2008
  • October 2008
  • September 2008
  • August 2008
  • July 2008
  • June 2008
  • May 2008
  • April 2008

Categories

  • Auto Parts
  • Auto Shows
  • Automotive Career
  • Automotive News
  • Book Reviews
  • Car Tips
  • Classics & Discontinued Models
  • Commentary
  • Commercial Vehicles
  • Concept Vehicles
  • Dealers
  • Engineering & Technology
  • Fleet
  • Fun News
  • Maintenance & Repairs
  • Motorsport
  • New Models
  • New Vehicle Reviews
  • Ownership Experience
  • Product Reviews
  • Special
  • Specifications

Meta

  • Log in
  • Entries feed
  • Comments feed
  • WordPress.org

New!
Check out our Jobs Board!

via GIPHY

Subscribe to Auto Trends

Subscribe in a reader

Social Media

Visit our social media pages:
Facebook
Twitter
Google+
Pinterest

Where is Matt Currently Published?

The Carolinian (new car reviews)
NAPA Know How Blog
On the Road Again

Pages

  • About
  • Authors List
  • Automotive Brochures
  • Contact
  • Industry Jobs
  • Write
    • Style Guide

Categories

Recent Posts

  • A Look Back at the Ford Mustang II
  • New Duck-Billed Post Office Trucks Has Some People Quacking
  • Vroom! Lexus Reveals the IS 500 F Sport.
  • Introducing the Kia Carnival MPV
  • Goodyear, Cooper Tire to Join Forces
  • Highlights of the 2021 Nissan Rogue
  • 7 Facts About the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt
  • Introducing the All-New
    2022 Mitsubishi Outlander SUV
  • What’s the Future for Chrysler and Dodge Under Stellantis?
  • All About Sobriety Checkpoints
  • Plug It In: Toyota RAV4 Prime
  • About the Volkswagen Taos
  • All-Wheel Drive Finally Comes to the Toyota Camry and We Like It!
  • Growing EV Industry Leaves Countries and Businesses Racing to Meet Increasing Lithium Demand
  • Introducing the All-New 2022 Nissan Pathfinder Crossover SUV
  • At Last! The All-New 2022 Nissan Frontier Revealed.
  • In Photos: 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor!
  • Cadillac V-Series Blackwing Preview!
  • Cost-Effective Crossover: Nissan Kicks
  • 10 Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Car
  • All-New Acura TLX Takes Charge
  • The Golden Years: 6 Memorable Models From the Original Era of Muscle Cars
  • From Datsun to Nissan: 40th Anniversary of the Maxima Sedan
  • The Mazda CX-5 Brings a Premium Touch to the Compact Crossover Utility Vehicle Segment
  • 4 Car Upholstery Cleaning Tips
  • The 14 Brands of Stellantis
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • GM Launches BrightDrop, Its Commercial EV Brand
  • The Refreshed and Handsome
    Lexus IS 350 F Sport
  • What We Know About the All-New 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
  • The All-New and Formidable 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • Fuel-Efficiency and AWD Champion: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
  • Midsize Performance Master: 2021 Hyundai Sonata N-Line
  • Performance Hatchback: The All-New 2021 Mazda Mazda3 Turbo!
  • NACTOY Finalists For 2021 Offer Familiar and Futuristic Choices
  • Super Trooper: Nissan Titan Pickup
  • Behind the Wheel of the Popular 2021 Toyota Corolla Sedan
  • Lucid Motors Completes Arizona Factory
  • A Robust Turbodiesel Comes to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • Mid-Engine Masterpiece: The Eighth-Generation Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
  • Compact Performance:
    2021 Cadillac CT4-V
  • All-Wheel Drive Supplies the Nissan Altima With a Competitive Edge
  • Return of the Toyota Venza!
  • Lexus Brings a Convertible to the Gorgeous LC 500 Line
  • Stellantis Logo Revealed by Peugeot, Fiat Chrysler Ahead of Spring Merger
  • Preview: 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • How to Fix a Broken Rivian Vehicle
  • Cadillac Gets Most Things Right
    With the XT6 Crossover
  • The High Potency Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody Coupe
December 2015
S M T W T F S
 12345
6789101112
13141516171819
20212223242526
2728293031  
« Nov   Jan »

Copyright © 2021 · News Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in