For the Nissan Titan, the Titan XD is the three-quarter-ton model and the regular Titan is the half-ton giving you significant differences.

Many times, with full-size pickups, it’s easy to see the difference between the half-ton models and the heavy-duty models. For example, the differences between the Ford F-150 and the HD Ford F-250 and F-350 are pretty obvious in exterior styling.

These two Nissan trucks look almost exactly the same on the outside, and they even share the same general mechanicals. So, which one should you buy?

Nissan Titan vs Titan XD: Similarities

Along with basically identical exteriors, the Titan and Nissan Titan XD also have the exact same engine in a 5.6-liter V8 that makes 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Titan XD previously also came with an optional 5.0-liter Cummins turbodiesel V8, but it was dropped for the 2020 model year.

Both the Titan and the Titan XD have the same amount of passenger room with seating for five people. Both trucks also offer the same infotainment system and the Nissan Safety Shield 360 driver-assistance suite.

Nissan Titan vs Titan XD: Differences

There are some differences between these two trucks that might influence your decision to purchase one over the other. Despite having the same interior size, the Titan XD does have a longer bed at 6.5 feet. The Titan XD also has a longer wheelbase and a taller suspension than the Titan.

The standard Titan crew cab comes with a 5.5-foot bed, however, you can buy an extended cab with a 6.5-foot bed. The Titan XD only comes in one configuration, which is the crew cab with a 6.5-foot bed.

Standard equipment is another difference between the two trucks. The Titan XD only comes in 4WD, while the Titan comes standard with RWD and 4WD is optional. The Titan XD is a three-quarter-ton truck as well, so it is ultimately heavier than the Titan. The larger and heavier size of the Titan XD means that it can tow more at 10,880 pounds from the hitch and 11,000 pounds with a gooseneck.

Conversely, the Titan has a maximum towing ability of 9,210 pounds. Payload capacities are also different with the Titan XD capable of hauling 2,450 pounds and the Titan with a max of 1,680 pounds.

Nissan Titan vs Titan XD: Which To Choose

Now that you know the similarities and differences between the two trucks, which one should you choose? Upfront, it might seem like the Titan XD is the better choice, but it’s important to remember that the Titan XD competes in a different class vs. the regular Titan. When you consider this, it ultimately has a lot fewer options than the Titan.

Essentially, if you want a standard 4WD Titan that can tow and haul a bit more than the regular one, then the Titan XD is probably a good choice.

However, if you don’t want 4WD and are looking for something more affordable, then the regular Titan is probably the better choice.