Nissan Titan XD Category Comparison

For the purpose of this comparison, and for the sake of identifying the Titan XD's true place in the market, the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel has been omitted to focus on each respective pickup line's most capable offering. While the EcoDiesel is an impressive option from Ram, EcoDiesel equipped trucks do not carry the Ram 1500's maximum tow and payload ratings. To see how the 3.0L EcoDiesel and 5.0L Cummins compare, see Ram 1500 EcoDiesel vs Nissan Titan XD.

Nissan Titan XD vs Competing 1/2 Tons

What is typically referred to as the "1/2 ton" category encompasses class 2A fullsize pickups, which have a GVWR between 6,001 and 8,500 lbs. The Nissan Titan XD features a GVWR between 8,800 and 8,992 lbs and is therefore, for all intents and purposes, not a 1/2 ton pickup. While this seems like a cut-and-dry way to settle any disputes regarding the pickup's classification, it's compromising that the Titan's maximum tow rating only edges the nearest 1/2 ton competitor by 1%, while it loses by up to 43% to the categories' maximum payload. The Ford F-150, specifically, displays similar capabilities as the more powerful Titan XD, and yet does so at 40% the curb weight.

Despite holding a significant margin in the 1/2 ton category with respect to the Cummins impressive torque figures, it becomes quite clear that the Nissan Titan XD's worst enemy is its heft. The platforms high curb weight handicaps its maximum payload and towing capabilities.

Nissan Titan XD vs Competing 3/4 Tons

As previously stated, the Nissan Titan XD is technically classified as a class 2B vehicle, which encompasses what the industry calls "3/4 ton" pickups. However, it is notable that the Titan XD comes in at the lower end of the classification's weight range, which includes all vehicles with a GVWR between 8,501 and 10,000 lbs. The Nissan Titan XD does not compete well in the 3/4 ton category, falling short in all capability aspects while weighing within 7% of the heaviest competitor and 3% of the lightest.

The Nissan Titan XD's physical characteristics and engine/transmission combination suggest the makings of a solid 3/4 ton pickup. However, the XD's capabilities fail to edge the 1/2 ton category, let alone become a player in the 3/4 ton sector. Regardless of the Titan's identity crisis, we commend Nissan for bringing this Cummins powered behemoth to the U.S. market - after all, there's always room for improvement.

Where the Nissan Titan XD shines...

• Diesel engine yields improved fuel economy over comparable gas engines under severe tow conditions.

• Heavy curb weight tends to improve handling while towing, displaying favorable command over heavy trailers.

• 5.0L Cummins Turbodiesel yields excellent torque, power characteristics.

• Solid platform, fully boxed ladder frame.

• Two stage Holset turbocharger yields quick throttle response, great all-around turbocharger performance.

Where the Nissan Titan XD falls short...

• Relatively low trailer tow and payload capacities for a pickup with a comparable curb weight.

• Titan XD platform does not compete well in either the 1/2 ton nor 3/4 ton categories with respect to payload and trailer tow capabilities.

• Hefty curb weight restricts fuel economy potential of Cummins Turbodiesel.

^[1] Engine chosen for comparisons purposes corresponds to brands maximum available payload and towing capabilities. Specifications for trucks equipped with optional engines omitted for comparison purposes. Truck specifications may vary by configuration, trim level, and available options.
^[2] EPA does not require automakers to publish fuel economy ratings for vehicles with a GVWR greater than 8,500 lbs.
^[3] 3/4 ton category comparison includes diesel engine equipped trucks only. All specifications for gasoline equipped 3/4 ton pickups have been omitted.

Sources: nissanusa.com, ramtrucks.com, ford.com, chevrolet.com