2022 Nissan Titan vs 2021 Nissan Titan

The 2021 Nissan Titan retained the aesthetic appeal from its 2020 refresh, displaying a range of King Cab and Crew Cab grades with a distinct visual identity for each trim level. The exterior featured variations in grille designs across models—the Titan S and SV had dark grilles, SL sported a bright chrome grille, the Platinum Reserve had a satin chrome grille, and the Pro-4X boasted a black grille with a highlighted red Nissan logo and lava-red tow hooks. The redesigned headlights delivered 120% more light output compared to the 2019 model, complemented by optional LED fog lights providing an additional 15% visibility. The bed was illuminated by four LED sources, surpassing the single light of older models. The rear end featured LED taillights and unique tailgate finishers tailored to each trim level.

The interior makeover brought modernity with a large infotainment screen and piano-black trim, although the steering wheel design lagged behind in terms of contemporary standards. Despite these limitations, the Titan’s spacious and functional cabin with the unique brown Baja Storm exterior color garnered appreciation.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Titan maintained the refreshed design but with continuity rather than significant changes. The exterior continued to embody a rugged yet elegant appearance with strong lines and minimal extraneous details. The interior upheld this theme with clean lines, high-quality materials, and ample space, enhanced by an optional dual-panel panoramic moonroof. The fit and finish were first-rate, making for an airy and well-constructed cabin.

The 2021 Nissan Titan was equipped with a singular powertrain—a robust 5.6-liter V8 engine delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, matched with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This combination provided strong acceleration, though the mid-range gear shifts were less optimal. The absence of engine start/stop functionality meant consistent power delivery but at the cost of fuel efficiency, with RWD and 4WD models averaging 18 mpg combined. Towing and payload capacities were up to 9,310 lbs and 1,680 lbs respectively, enhanced by technologies like trailer sway control and an electronic locking rear differential for the Pro-4X model.

For 2022, Nissan adhered to the same powertrain formula, offering the reliable 5.6-liter V8 and nine-speed transmission. Performance specs mirrored those of 2021, with the same horsepower and torque figures. Fuel efficiency ratings were unchanged, but the Pro-4X configuration saw a slight dip. The Pro-4X also included additional off-road features such as Bilstein shocks and nearly 10 inches of ground clearance, ensuring adequate performance across various terrains. Towing capacity stood at 9,310 lbs, with a maximum payload of 1,710 lbs.

The 2021 Nissan Titan offered seating for five or six, depending on the choice between a front bench seat or bucket seats. The Zero Gravity design of the seats ensured comfort over long distances. However, shorter drivers found it challenging to find an optimal seating position that balanced pedal reach with steering wheel distance. Both front and rear seating areas were spacious, and the design of the center console accommodated ample storage, including smartphone slots and a sizable covered storage space.

In comparison, the 2022 Titan came in King Cab and Crew Cab body styles. The King Cab’s rear-hinged clamshell doors provided access to a tight second row, while the Crew Cab offered more spacious SUV-like seating with 38.5 inches of legroom. The flat-floor function and lockable storage boxes added practicality. Cargo capacity hinged on bed length, with the King Cab offering a 78.7-inch bed and the Crew Cab a shorter 67-inch bed. Both body styles maintained a 139.8-inch wheelbase and lacked a long bed option, necessitating tie-downs for larger cargo. The tailgate was well-balanced and easy to operate.

The 2021 Titan featured a generous 9-inch WXGA resolution infotainment touchscreen, the largest standard screen in its class. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and multiple USB ports. An available WiFi hotspot connected up to seven devices, though the screen graphics were less advanced compared to competitors. The optional Fender Premium Audio System delivered premium sound with up to 12 speakers.

The 2022 Titan continued with the latest infotainment system, offering a standard 8-inch display or an optional 9-inch touchscreen. Standard features included WiFi hotspot, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity, while higher trims or optional packages added NissanConnect with navigation and a Fender-branded 12-speaker audio system. This upgrade provided enhanced audio and comprehensive connectivity solutions tailored to modern users’ needs.

Safety features in the 2021 Titan included Nissan Safety Shield 360, covering automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, high beam assist, and rear automatic braking. Additional features included forward-collision warning, parking sensors, an Around View Monitor, and adaptive cruise control. The truck also boasted a five-year/100,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, the best in its class.

The 2022 Titan continued with standard Nissan Safety Shield 360 and included intelligent forward collision warning. Eight airbags and high safety ratings from the IIHS were notable, although standard halogen headlights received a “Poor” rating. LED headlights in higher trims were unrated by the IIHS. NHTSA had not provided ratings for the 2022 model as of the latest updates.