Auto Review: 2016 Nissan Titan XD...More Than Just A Pick-up

The 2016 Nissan TITAN XD, which made its world debut at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, is set to shake up the highly competitive full-size pickup segment when it goes on sale in the United States and Canada beginning in late 2015 – with a bold all-new design that stakes out a unique position in the segment between traditional heavy-duty and light-duty entries.

Called the "XD," it offers the effortless towing and hauling of the larger, more expensive heavy-duty trucks – including an available maximum towing capacity of more than 12,000 pounds and maximum payload capacity of 2,000 pounds (when properly equipped) – yet has the fuel-efficiency and affordability of a half-ton pickup.

The all-new TITAN XD, like the first-generation Titan, was developed with core Nissan planning, design, engineering and manufacturing teams contributing from Tennessee, California, Michigan, Arizona and Mississippi. The TITAN XD's engine will be sourced from Cummins Inc. in Indiana. And, the lead designer and nearly four-dozen engineers also worked on the original 2004 TITAN development.

Power comes from 5 liter Cummins Turbo Diesel DOHC V8 producing 555 hp. This particular engine is the first commercial application of the new Cummins M2 two-stage turbo system, which reduces turbo lag through optimized balancing of the high pressure and low pressure turbo. The Rotary turbine control manages exhaust temperatures and provides a more even power band across all engine speeds. Bosch ceramic glow plugs will quickly start even in extremely low temperatures.

These features, along with the Bosch HPCR fuel system, allow the Cummins to provide a projected 20 percent improvement in fuel economy relative to a similarly powered gasoline V8.

The body incorporates a fully boxed, full-length ladder frame that has been heavily reinforced. The wheelbase is 20 inches longer than non-XD Titan models. Suspension incorporates a double wishbone with stabilizer bar in front, and a rigid rear axle with leaf spring and leaf bushings in the rear.

Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel – Power, Durability and MPG

A new class of truck also demands a new class of engine. Like the TITAN XD itself, the new Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel fills the space between more expensive big bore diesels and less capable smaller displacement diesels," said Diaz. "And more than just power and torque, this engine is refined, starts fast and is responsive and quiet. It's also lightweight and offers clean emissions."

The TITAN XD Cummins diesel is the first commercial application of the new Cummins M2 two-stage turbo system, which helps reduce traditional turbo-lag through precision balancing between high-pressure and low-pressure turbos. The patented Rotary Turbine Control provides solid performance across the powerband and manages exhaust gas temperatures.

The new engine also features a Bosch® HPCR fuel system to deliver precise fuel control and multiple injections per combustion stroke, which helps increase efficiency and reduce traditional "diesel clatter." And, the advanced, maintenance-free Bosch® ceramic glow plugs provide quick engine starts, even in extreme low temperatures.

Another key advantage of the new Cummins diesel design is that it provides maximum durability and power in a lightweight package. Weight was reduced by building the cylinder block out of compacted graphite iron (CGI), which is stronger and lighter than traditional iron.

Other lightweight engine components were added, including high-strength aluminium-alloy heads and composite valve covers. The CGI block, along with the dual overhead camshafts, also contributes to the engine's excellent noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics. The new Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel exhaust system has a particulate filter and selective catalytic reduction that enable the engine to run cleaner. That technology also serves a second purpose – reducing typical diesel noise.

It is also designed to be fun to drive, with about 45 percent more torque at cruising speed than similar-sized gasoline V8 engines. And, its low revving powerband requires less downshifting and provides more confidence while towing, as well as saving fuel whether towing or carrying heavy loads.

Helping handle the power and torque of the engine is a heavy-duty 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission developed and tuned exclusively for the TITAN XD.

TITAN will also be offered with V8 and V6 gasoline engines. Details on those engines will be announced at a later date.

Durable off-road performance has also been emphasized, with features such as Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist and Brake Limited-Slip Differential (BLSD). A new off-road gauge uses accelerometer data to calculate the vehicle's pitch and roll angles.

Smart Design, Smart Utility

The all-new Nissan TITAN XD exterior and interior designs were created at Nissan Design America. Where the original Titan broke new ground in terms of smart cabin and bed utility, the goal this time around was to keep things simple but smarter – making owners' lives easier.

Inspired by a theme of "powerful precision tool," the TITAN XD exterior provides a bold, commanding presence with a fresh, modern technical feel.

The profile of the TITAN XD, with its extended front overhang, was actually influenced by the engine, to incorporate the high performance grille, charged air cooler and two-battery installation. Aerodynamics also played a role in the exterior design, which is improved from the previous Titan and incorporates a front spoiler, roof and tailgate spoilers, front tow hook hole cover, underbody covers, rear tire wind deflectors and a seal between the cab and bed.

Available exterior features include LED headlights and taillights, signature Daytime Running Lights, puddle lamps, and step rails for cabin and bed entry/exit. Door closing effort has also been reduced (compared to the previous generation Titan).

Durability, Quality and Reliability

The TITAN design and engineering teams also set one other bar extremely high, what they designated as "120 percent DQR." That meant infusing the vehicle with exceptional fit and finish, top quality components inside and out, and unrelenting attention to detail – in areas that can be seen and areas that are not.

The 2016 TITAN has undergone some of the most rigorous and extensive testing of any vehicle in company history, building on the foundation established for Nissan Commercial Vehicles extended durability evaluations.

The 2016 Nissan TITAN XD will be assembled in Canton, Mississippi, with engines assembled in Indiana and Tennessee (5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel and gasoline V8 and V6 respectively). Pricing and full specifications will be announced at a later date.