2009 Nissan Titan

The Titan received significant updates in 2008, so 2009 saw only minor changes to optional content for each trim. Nissan also introduced a new Heavy Metal Package in 2009, including chrome step rails, wheels, and a billet grille.

Like all massive, full-size pickup trucks, the Nissan Titan is an imposing vehicle on the road. The standard XE model comes with 18-inch wheels and a lockable tailgate. The XE trim includes a power vertical-drop rear window, while the Popular Equipment Package includes a chrome grille and 18-inch alloy wheels. The Titan SE includes all of the elements of the Popular Equipment Package, as well as power mirrors and a dampened-assist tailgate. The Crew Cab model can be fitted with a sunroof. The PRO-4X model has all-wheel drive (AWD) and includes heavy-duty skid plates, all-terrain tires, and Rancho shocks.

Nissans earn recognition for their functional and spacious interiors, and the Titan offers no exception. It includes numerous storage bins and intuitively placed controls. The interior employs average-quality materials, but it has a good build quality. The rear seats can fold up to leave more space for hauling items in the cab, and the extended cab models have rear doors that open nearly 180 degrees. All models come with air-conditioning and a six- or eight-speaker stereo.

The XE Popular Equipment Package includes cruise control and a front overhead console. The SE model offers these items standard, but adds an in-dash six-CD changer with MP3 capability, manual lumbar support, and a trip computer. The Popular Equipment Package for this model includes an eight-way power driver's seat, rear parking sensors, power-adjustable pedals, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The Convenience Package for the SE includes front seat captain’s chairs with eight-way power driver adjustment, Bluetooth, satellite radio capability, a premium sound system, and a console-mounted shifter. The Titan LE comes with all of the above equipment, plus a leather-wrapped shifter, driver memory capacity, Jolson climate control, and a universal garage opener. The PRO-4X carries similar equipment to the SE, and the Convenience Package includes driver memory functions, heated mirrors, Bluetooth, and leather upholstery. The Technology Package can be added to both the PRO-4X and the LE trim levels, and the Entertainment Package adds an LCD screen to both of these models, as well as a rear-seat DVD player.

The Titan comes as either a two-wheel drive or an AWD model. Both versions drive relatively well, providing plenty of power to tow or to haul most loads. However, the PRO-4X model comes with a rather firm suspension, which can feel unpleasant offroad. The Titan also suffers from a rather noisy engine that can be irritating after a while.

All Titan models come standard with anti-lock disc brakes (ABS). Full-length side curtain airbags and front-seat side airbags are optional on all trims, and stability control can be added to all models except the XE. The Titan scores very well on government crash tests, achieving five stars for driver protection in frontal impacts and four stars for passenger protection. It also achieves the highest possible rating in frontal-offset crash testing.

• Spacious cabin
• Intuitive controls

• Lack of engine choices
• Tiresome engine noise on long journeys

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