The Nissan Titan II XD King Cab, introduced in 2015, represents Nissan’s entry into the heavy-duty pickup truck segment in North America. Positioned between the standard Titan and larger commercial-grade trucks, the Titan XD aimed to offer a unique blend of capability, comfort, and refinement. This generation marked a significant departure for Nissan, moving away from a solely light-duty truck offering to compete directly with established players like Ford, Chevrolet, and Ram in the increasingly popular heavy-duty market. The “XD” designation signifies an extended-duty capability, offering increased towing and payload capacities compared to the standard Titan, while remaining more manageable in size and driving experience than full-size one-ton trucks.
Nissan Titan II XD King Cab: A Detailed Overview
The Titan XD King Cab, specifically equipped with the 5.6-liter V8 engine and automatic transmission, became a cornerstone of Nissan’s truck strategy. It targeted buyers who needed more than a light-duty truck could offer but didn’t require the full capacity of a one-ton behemoth. The King Cab configuration provides additional rear passenger space compared to the standard cab, enhancing its practicality for both work and family use. This model year marked Nissan’s commitment to providing a robust and capable truck tailored to the demands of the American market.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Nissan Titan II XD King Cab lies the VK56VD 5.6-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant delivers 390 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 394 Nm (290.6 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its responsive performance and respectable fuel efficiency for its class. The engine’s 5552 cm3 (338.8 cu. in.) displacement provides ample low-end torque, crucial for towing and hauling. The power-to-weight ratio stands at 6.8 kg/Hp, or 146.1 Hp/tonne, while the torque-to-weight ratio is 6.8 kg/Nm, equating to 147.6 Nm/tonne. This engine is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission, designed to optimize power delivery and provide smooth shifting. The engine has a maximum speed of 6000 rpm.
Design & Features
The Titan XD King Cab is a four-door pickup truck designed to accommodate five to six passengers. Its body-on-frame construction provides a solid foundation for demanding tasks. The King Cab configuration extends the rear doors and cabin space, offering improved access and comfort for rear-seat occupants. The truck boasts a length of 5855-5875 mm (230.51 – 231.3 in.), a width of 2019-2050 mm (79.49 – 80.71 in.), and a height of 1976 mm (77.8 in.). Ground clearance is a substantial 206 mm (8.11 in.), enhancing its off-road capability. Approach, departure, and ramp-over angles are 16.2°, 23.6°, and 21.5° respectively, further aiding in navigating challenging terrain. Safety features, typical for its time, included ABS (Anti-lock braking system) and ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The Titan XD prioritized a balance between rugged functionality and modern comfort, offering a more refined interior than some of its competitors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Titan |
| Generation | Titan II XD King Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 5.6 V8 (390 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 390 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 394 Nm @ 4000 rpm / 290.6 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VK56VD |
| Engine displacement | 5552 cm3 / 338.8 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 98 mm / 3.86 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm / 3.62 in. |
| Compression ratio | 11.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l / 6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt |
| Coolant | 14.8 l / 15.64 US qt | 13.02 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2669-2740 kg / 5884.14 – 6040.67 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 3901 kg / 8600.23 lbs. |
| Max load | 1161-1232 kg / 2559.57 – 2716.1 lbs. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l / 25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal |
| Length | 5855-5875 mm / 230.51 – 231.3 in. |
| Width | 2019-2050 mm / 79.49 – 80.71 in. |
| Height | 1976 mm / 77.8 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3551 mm / 139.8 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 206 mm / 8.11 in. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 245/75 R17; 275/65 R18; 265/60 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 20 |
The Nissan Titan II XD King Cab 5.6 V8 Automatic represented a significant step for Nissan in the competitive North American truck market. While later iterations saw the introduction of a Cummins diesel engine option, the gasoline V8 remained a popular choice, offering a compelling combination of power, capability, and value. The Titan XD aimed to carve out a niche for itself by providing a “just right” option for buyers who needed more than a light-duty truck but didn’t want the bulk and complexity of a full-size heavy-duty model.
