2009 Nissan Titan 2WD Review

The 2009 Nissan Titan 2WD features a range of options, including fourteen different trim levels, two cab sizes, and flex fuel capabilities. However, with only one engine size available, potential buyers might be disappointed. Also, with an intro price that is higher than the competition, the Nissan Titan 2WD could fall flat. Not only that, but the 2WD version does not have the off-road capacity of other comparable models on the market as well. Nevertheless, the Titan's "Most Appealing Large Pickup" award from J.D. Power might be enough to push some buyers in its direction.

Under the hood, the Nissan Titan is equipped with a powerful 5.6L V8 that can generate up to 317 horsepower. But, this is the only engine choice in a sea of trim levels, and consumers could be confused with the contradiction. Also, a five-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on the Titan, without any other drivetrain options. With 385-lbs per foot of torque, the Nissan Titan is close to being one of the most powerful pickups on sales lots. With 12 city MPG and 17 highway MPG, the Titan is in the middle of the pack, but flex fuel capabilities give driver's the option of powering with E85 fuel, which is both less expensive and cleaner burning.

While buyers will be scratching their heads after popping the hood, they'll certainly be pleased with the interior features. Even though, the majority of the features are considered optional, so buyers should expect a significant price hike once they begin tacking on items like an in-dash navigation unit and manual lumbar support for the driver's seat. The base Titan 2WD comes standard with an AM/FM/CD player, while the higher trims include a Radio Data System, pre-wiring for satellite radio, and MP3 compatibility. The MP3 compatibility allows owners to sync their iPod (or other brand MP3 player) with the pickup's audio system, transferring music and even photos directly to the stereo.

The base XE trim on the Titan maxes out at 6,500-lbs of towing capacity and has a payload of up to 2,013-lbs. Compared to other base full-size pickup models, the Titan falls short. However, once buyers begin adding a tow and haul package and purchase a higher-end trim level, the Titan's towing capacity jumps to 9,400-lbs.

The 2009 Titan 2WD is fitted with all of the latest in safety features, ranging from front-seat active head restraints to a tire pressure monitoring system. The front-seat active head restraints actually absorb the energy from a passenger's head in the event of a collision rather than deflecting it, and the tire pressure monitoring system will alert drivers if a tire pressure is too low or too high.

Overall, the 2009 Nissan Titan 2WD is underwhelming. The juxtaposition of limited drivetrain options against innumerable trim levels will confuse buyers. With a base MSRP of $28,700, the Titan is also a bit pricey compared to other full-size models. On the other hand, the 2009 Titan's chiseled exterior and 60,000-mile powertrain warranty might be enough to pull in some buyers.