All in all, I'd say the Titan is a serious competitor for the Big Three's and Toyota's full-size Tundra. Yet, other auto manufacturers could easily copy some of its innovative features if they were willing to spend the money. And, sometimes innovation doesn't always pay off, at least at first. General Motors, for example, spent millions testing and refining a composite box for its pickups that would shave 50 pounds of weight off of the vehicle and offer its truck buyers a rust-free bed (which is much better than a factory spray-in liner). But, from reports I've read, GM is pulling it off the market due to a lack of buyers.

For traditionalists that want or need to move up to a full-size truck, Nissan's new entry is ideal. (Photo: Nissan)

If anything, it may be Nissan's pricing for its features that may prove most important. It reminds me of Henry Ford I's approach of providing a dependable car at a price lower than the competition's. However, Nissan might also be competing with the prices of one- or two-year-old used pickups that also offer good, proven quality, longevity and features.

To import traditionalists that want or need to move up to a full-size truck, Nissan's new entry is ideal. It's priced right, offers better than average interior quality, looks stunning and is backed by one of the industry's top rated brands for reliability. That last item, in the end, could bring more buyers than any other.

Specifications:

• Price Range (MSRP): $31,900 - $54,200
• Body Type: 4-door pick-up
• Layout: front engine, RWD (opt 4WD)
• Engine: 305 hp, 379 lb-ft, DOHC, 32-valve 5.6-L V8
• Transmission: 5-spd auto with manual mode
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
• Curb Weight (min - max): 2,253 - 2,423 kg (4,966 - 5,341 lbs)
• Seating Capacity: 5/6
• Bed Length (king/crew cab): 2,004 - 1,704 (78.9 - 67.1 in)
• Ground Clearance (4x2/4x4): 251 - 292 mm (9.9 / 11.5 in)
• Payload (King Cab 4x2/4x4): 744 / 684 kg (1,640/1,508 lbs)
• Payload (Crew Cab 4x2/4x4): 719 / 659 kg (1,585 / 1,453 lbs)
• Towing Capacity (4x2/4x4): 2,269 kg (9,500 / 9,400 lb)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 16.8 / 12.4 L/100 km (14 / 19 mpg) (4x2)
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
• Direct Competitors: Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Dodge Ram 1500, Ford F150, GMC Sierra 1500, Toyota Tundra
• Web Site: www.nissan.ca