2021 Toyota Tacoma vs 2021 Nissan Titan

The 2021 Nissan Titan retained its refreshed look from 2020, offering a variety of trim levels with distinct design identities. The Titan S and SV featured dark grilles, while the SL and Platinum Reserve boasted chrome finishes. The Pro-4X stood out with a black grille and lava-red accents. New headlights provided significantly improved light output, and LED lighting enhanced visibility around the truck. The Titan's bed was equipped with a Utili-track Bed Channel System, making it practical for hauling. The interior saw a modern upgrade with a large infotainment screen and user-friendly controls, though the steering wheel design felt outdated.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma embodied the classic truck aesthetic with its boxy fender flares and tall hood. Unique styling features were present in specific models, such as the Trail Edition and Nightshade Edition. The TRD Pro model offered off-road enhancements and an exclusive color option. The Tacoma maintained a body-on-frame construction, favoring off-road capability over ride comfort. Interior space was limited, especially in the Double Cab, and the dashboard featured rugged styling. Despite its shortcomings in space, the Tacoma offered practical storage solutions and a durable interior.

The 2021 Nissan Titan was powered by a single 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, making it a class leader in standard powertrain performance. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, the Titan offered smooth shifts and strong acceleration. Fuel economy was average, with both RWD and 4WD models achieving 18 mpg combined. The Titan's towing capacity reached up to 9,310 pounds, and it featured off-road capabilities with the Pro-4X model's specialized equipment.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma offered two engine options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 159 horsepower and a 3.5-liter V6 producing 278 horsepower. The V6 was available with both automatic and manual transmissions. The Tacoma excelled off-road, particularly in the TRD models, which included features like upgraded suspension and drive modes. However, on-road performance was less impressive, with slow acceleration and poor ride quality. The Tacoma's towing capacity maxed out at 6,800 pounds, and its payload capacity was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2021 Nissan Titan provided ample seating space with its Zero Gravity seats, offering comfort for long journeys. The interior featured practical storage solutions, including a large center console and smartphone holders. Optional features like a panoramic moonroof and power-sliding rear window added convenience. The Titan's interior layout was thoughtfully designed, with easy-to-reach grab handles and folding rear seatbacks.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma's Double Cab configuration struggled with limited interior space, particularly in the rear seats. The cabin felt cramped, with below-average headroom and legroom. Storage options were limited, though the rear seats offered fold-up storage cubbies. The Tacoma's bed included a rail system with tie-down cleats and an available 120-volt outlet, but it lacked innovative storage solutions found in some competitors.

The 2021 Nissan Titan featured a standard 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, the largest in its class, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Additional features like navigation and a WiFi hotspot were available. The interface was responsive, though graphics were less modern compared to rivals. The Titan offered an optional Fender Premium Audio System for enhanced sound quality.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma came with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim level, with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The infotainment system was functional but lacked standout features. Higher trims offered a JBL audio system and a Multi-Terrain Monitor for off-road navigation. The system was user-friendly, though graphics were basic.

The 2021 Nissan Titan was equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. Additional safety options included adaptive cruise control and an Around View Monitor. The Titan boasted a five-year/100,000-mile warranty, the best in its class.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma received high safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, with standard features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked some advanced features offered by competitors, such as lane-keep assist and comprehensive blind-spot monitoring.