2011 Nissan Titan

Reviewers say two of the Titan's best features are its strong V8 engine and its smooth automatic transmission. They also note its good on-road performance.  However, other trucks like the Dodge Ram get higher marks for performance, thanks to more power and a smoother ride.

• ”Relatively easy to drive for a big pickup.” -- Consumer Guide 
• "Since it was new in ‘04, the Titan has had one of the strongest V-8s in the class, and it still offers tons -- literally -- of towing and hauling muscle. But time catches up to all, and the Titan feels antiquated against those with fresher designs." -- Car and Driver

Acceleration and Power

The 2011 Nissan Titan only provides one engine option, an Endurance 5.6-liter V8 with 317 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque -- and reviewers couldn't be happier, except when it’s time to head to the gas station. According to the EPA, the Titan has some of the worst fuel economy ratings in its class, getting 13/18 mpg city/highway on two-wheel-drive models and 12/17 mpg city/highway in four-wheel-drive models.

A five-speed automatic transmission is standard across the line, but reviewers aren’t fond of it.  Multiple reviewers noted delayed downshifts despite its comfortable upshifting and smooth transition between first and second gears while applying engine braking.

• "We found the Titan's V8 engine felt strong at all speeds, with loads of power on demand. " -- Kelley Blue Book
• "A smooth, powerful V8 puts Titan among quickest large trucks off the line. Passing punch is ample. The transmission upshifts smoothly, but sometimes suffers from delayed downshifts." -- Consumer Guide
• "The Titan's tractable 5.6-liter V8 delivers plenty of muscle right from idle. It sounds great too, but that booming exhaust note can grow tiresome on long drives." -- Edmunds

Handling and Braking

Reviewers are generally pleased with the Nissan Titan's ride, braking and handling capabilities, which they note are smooth.  However, trucks like the Chevy Silverado and Dodge Ram get higher marks during on-road performance, so if you’ll be using your truck for commuting or around-town driving, those two are worth a look.  The off-road-oriented PRO-4X trim doesn't get the same praise that the performance trims of other trucks do.

• "The 2011 Nissan Titan's precise steering is nicely weighted, which makes the truck relatively nimble and easy to drive on pavement. However, the rather stiff suspension (especially on Pro-4X models) can make the Titan feel skittish in off-road situations." --  Edmunds
• "Titan is relatively easy to drive for a big pickup. Still, as with any of the breed, the rear end tends to hop through bumpy corners when the cargo bed is empty. Steering feel is accurate, and the brakes deliver smooth stops." -- Consumer Guide
• "There is some vibration telegraphed through the steering wheel, and there is a noticeable exhaust note upon application of the throttle. Still, the Titan delivers a smooth, controlled ride and exhibits better-than-average steering and handling response." -- Kelley Blue Book

Towing and Hauling

The Nissan Titan has one of the smallest towing capacities in the class. Properly equipped, the Nissan Titan can tow up to 9,500 pounds and haul a little over 2,000 pounds -- capacities that are pretty disappointing when compared to the 11,300 pounds of towing and 8,200 pounds of hauling that can be done with less expensive, class-leading Ford F-150.