2012 Nissan Titan PRO-4X ShortBed CrewCab Truck

The Titan is Japan's take on the full-size American truck, and it matches its competitors from Detroit's Big Three in size, power, and heft. Whereas domestic full-size trucks are available in a wide assortment of configurations, the Titan keeps things simple: there is one engine, a beefy 5.6-liter V-8, and it mates to a five-speed automatic transmission. Body choices are limited to the four-door crew cab and the King Cab, which has hinged rear half-doors, and there are three possible lengths for the Titan's bed. We think the Titan is one of the few big pickups that doesn't drive like one: the 317-hp V-8 provides muscular acceleration, and the steering has better feedback than what you'd find in some sedans. The Titan's ride is remarkably comfortable and planted over lumpy roads. At the same time, the Titan is plenty capable, with a maximum tow rating of 9500 pounds and an array of tie-downs, storage compartments, and towing gear available. The interior is roomy, nicely laid out, and filled with storage cubbies and cupholders. The front passenger seat folds flat to provide an additional work surface, and the center console can even hold hanging file folders. The Nissan Titan delivers on all the primary reasons for which buyers select full-size trucks: size, power, utility, and capability. Unfortunately, all those qualities haven't translated to sales, as Nissan has been unable to gain much of a toehold in the lucrative full-size pickup market. Currently, Nissan sells only one Titan for every twenty-seven F-series pickups sold by Ford.