Nissan Titan XD Debuts at 2015 Detroit Auto Show with 5.0L Cummins Diesel
Nissan has launched the 2016 Titan XD at the Detroit Auto Show, introducing a 5.0-litre Cummins V8 turbodiesel and a towing capacity of over 12,000 pounds.
Nissan has revealed the 2016 Titan XD at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, marking its return to the full-size pickup segment with a new 5.0-litre V8 Cummins turbodiesel engine. The Titan XD is positioned above the standard Titan and is aimed directly at buyers needing more capability than a traditional half-ton pick-up, but without stepping up to a heavy-duty model.
The Cummins V8 produces 310 bhp and 555 lb-ft (752 Nm) of torque, figures that put the Titan XD ahead of rivals like the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel on power and torque. Nissan claims a maximum towing capacity of at least 12,000 pounds, with payload capacity exceeding 2,000 pounds, targeting buyers who haul heavy loads but do not want the compromises of a three-quarter-ton truck.
Configurations and trims
Nissan will offer the Titan XD in Crew Cab, King Cab and Single Cab formats, with three bed lengths to suit different needs. Trim options range from the off-road focused Pro-4X, which comes exclusively with four-wheel drive, to the range-topping Platinum Reserve. Other models can be specified with either rear- or four-wheel drive.
- Crew Cab, King Cab, Single Cab body styles
- Three bed lengths
- Trim levels: Pro-4X (4WD only), Platinum Reserve, others
- 2WD and 4WD available (except Pro-4X)
Inside, the Titan XD features a more upmarket cabin than its predecessor, with Nissan highlighting increased storage (up 33 percent in the front, 28 percent in the rear), NASA-inspired Zero Gravity seats, and a choice of technology options. Buyers can specify a 5-inch colour display, a 12-speaker sound system, 120-volt and 12-volt power outlets, and NissanConnect with a 7-inch navigation screen. Safety equipment includes Blind Spot Warning and front and rear sonar systems.
Positioning and market context
Nissan positions the Titan XD as a bridge between light-duty and heavy-duty pickups, seeking to attract buyers who want more capability than a standard half-ton but do not require a full-size heavy-duty truck. The focus on diesel power and high towing figures is a direct response to US market demand for work-focused trucks, although Nissan acknowledges that low petrol prices have reduced diesel's appeal for some buyers.
