2021 RAM 1500 vs 2021 Nissan Titan

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX’s design was a continuation of the major redesign it underwent in 2019. The configurations stayed consistent with previous models, featuring quad or crew cabins and two bed lengths: 5-foot, 7-inch, and 6-foot, 4-inch beds. For enthusiasts, the Ram 1500 in its TRX variant was especially noteworthy. The TRX, inspired by off-road rally races, came standard with a crew cab-only 4x4 setup and a 5-foot, 7-inch box, exuding a commanding presence with a height of 80.9 inches and width of 88 inches. The TRX’s rough-and-ready exterior included a functioning hood scoop, massive grille, and fender vents. It sported large 325/65R18 35-inch all-terrain tires and distinctive “R-A-M” badging on grille and tailgate. The Ignition Orange paint was another standout cosmetic feature.

Inside, the TRX offered first-class comfort with black premium cloth and vinyl upholstery paired with red accents. Options included leather and suede materials with carbon fiber and graphite metal finishings. The cabin also featured an SRT-signature flat-bottom performance steering wheel and a prominent 12-inch Uconnect infotainment display, which was tastefully integrated into the console.

Meanwhile, the 2021 Nissan Titan kept its looks consistent with the 2020 refresh and continued to offer three King Cab grades and five Crew Cab trim levels. Each grade had distinctive interior and exterior design identities. For instance, the base model Titan S and next-tier SV had dark grilles, while the SL was adorned with a bright chrome grille and the Platinum Reserve flaunted a satin chrome finish. The Pro-4X's look was enhanced by a black grille and lava-red script on the Nissan logo. LED headlights provided 120 percent more light than the 2019 model, with the option of LED fog lights enhancing visibility further.

The Titan came in eight exterior colors including the unique Baja Storm. Its interior was modernized with a large infotainment screen and attractive trim. Nissan’s Zero Gravity seat design and spacious seating contributed to long-haul comfort, though the steering wheel design felt dated.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX housed a ferocious 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8 engine, delivering an overwhelming 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. Combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the TRX accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds and reached a top speed of 118 mph. The TRX’s payload capacity was 1,310 pounds and it had a maximum towing capability of 8,100 pounds. Despite an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 10 mpg city, 14 mpg highway, and 12 mpg combined, the TRX was designed for performance rather than fuel efficiency.

During its test drive from Lake Tahoe through the Sierra Nevada, the TRX excelled in diverse driving scenarios, from city commuting to off-road adventures. Equipped with eight on- and off-road driving modes, including a special Baja mode, the TRX adapted brilliantly to various terrains.

Conversely, the 2021 Nissan Titan offered a single powertrain—a 5.6-liter V8 engine that generated 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. Paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission, the Titan ensured smooth and relatively steady shifts. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) options were available, with both drivetrains achieving an EPA-estimated 18 mpg combined. The 4WD model managed 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.

The Titan’s ride quality was average for its class, and its handling was reminiscent of a traditional truck, ensuring a more genuine feel. It could haul up to 1,680 pounds and tow up to 9,310 pounds, depending on the drivetrain. The Titan Pro-4X variant added off-road-centric features like hill-descent control and an electronic locking rear differential, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The RAM 1500 TRX ensured practicality matched its off-road prowess. Full-length rock rails provided added protection and a step into the cabin, while the interior dimensions offered a spacious environment identical to the standard Ram 1500. With 40.9 inches of front headroom and legroom and 39.8 inches of rear headroom with 45.2 inches of legroom, passengers enjoyed ample space. The center storage bin was cavernous, with convenient storage solutions around the cabin. The powered-adjustable pedals were a favorite feature for drivers of all sizes.

The 2021 Nissan Titan featured configurations that allowed seating for five or six depending on the choice between a front bench seat or bucket seats. Despite its comfort, shorter drivers might struggle to find a suitable position to reach the pedals comfortably. The Titan’s interior space was generous, with enough room both in the front and rear for adults. The center console’s covered storage space was large enough for personal items, and specific holds were designed for smartphones.

Both trucks had practical bed features. The 2021 Titan’s Crew Cab models came with a 5.5-foot bed while King Cab versions had a 6.5-foot bed. A Utili-track Bed Channel System with bed rails, spray-in bedliner, 100-volt power outlet, and damped tailgate were standard. The RAM 1500 TRX offered a smaller 5-foot, 7-inch bed, ideal for off-roading while boasting significant cargo capability.

The RAM 1500’s 12-inch Uconnect 4C touchscreen with navigation stood out for its customizable display and extra features like Performance Pages and Off-Road Pages. It featured wireless charging, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay integration, HD Radio, 4G LTE Wi-Fi, and a six-month SiriusXM trial. A 10-speaker Alpine system or a premium 19-speaker Harmon Kardon package provided high-quality audio.

The Titan’s technology was no slouch either, with a 9.0-inch WXGA resolution touchscreen that supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and satellite radio. Enhanced available features included navigation, HD Radio, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power-sliding rear window. NissanConnect offered a real-time concierge service. The standard six-speaker audio system could be upgraded to a Fender Premium Audio System with either 10 or 12 speakers, depending on the cab configuration.

The RAM 1500 TRX, besides its off-road prowess, came loaded with over 100 safety features. This included a suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and pedestrian detection. Standard passive safety features included a rear backup camera, while optional features included a 360-degree camera, digital rear-view mirror, and adaptive headlights.

The Titan was no less equipped, with Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard, incorporating automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, driver-alertness monitor, and traffic-sign recognition were also available. Nissan’s comprehensive five-year/100,000-mile warranty was an added assurance.