Nissan struck to the core of the American carmakers when it introduced the Titan pickup in 2003 as a 2004 model with an intelligent marketing strategy proving that, sometimes, less is more.
Nissan provided the Titan with only two cab versions, one engine, and one gearbox option. Thus, it reduced the production costs while it still offered more than its American competitors at the same price. Moreover, when the Japanese carmaker ranked 23rd in the JD Initial Quality Study, it sent engineers to the assembly lines. It fixed the problem and jumped on 18th place, ahead of Chevrolet, Dodge, and Ford.

Most pickups were already used as daily drivers, commuter cars, and recreational utility vehicles. Nissan noticed that and offered the Crew Cab as a family vehicle, but with a bed in the back. Since it made only one chassis with one wheelbase, it traded some loading space for a more extended cabin. The Titan’s front fascia was straightforward, evoking a rugged and tough vehicle. Its squared-looking headlights flanked the black grille adorned by two wide chromed trims. The carmaker cut the bumper at the lower side so it could increase the approach angle. The cabin wasn’t connected to the bed on the sides, leading to a quieter interior, while the rear fenders were slightly enlarged. In the back, the corner-mounted taillights flanked the broad tailgate.

Inside, Nissan created a spacious cabin fit for five full-grown adults. The carmaker focused on the driver area and installed individual armrests for each of the front seats. Despite the generous-sized instrument cluster, the carmaker didn’t bother installing too many gauges. It placed only the necessary ones. On top of the center stack, Nissan placed a pop-up navigation screen.

Under the hood, the only option was a 5.6-liter V-8 engine that delivered 317 horses for the 4x4 version. As an experienced off-road car manufacturer, Nissan installed a five-speed automatic transmission and a low-range transfer case for the all-wheel-drive model.