When it comes to trucks, the Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Ram, and GMC Sierra top the list in sales, but the Nissan Titan is worth your consideration as well. If you’re choosing between the Nissan Titan and the Chevy Silverado, which is the best fit for you?
The Chevy Silverado 1500
Tale of the Tape
Payload: Up to 2,250 pounds
Towing: Up to 12,500 pounds
A redesigned 2019 model will use lighter materials, reducing vehicle weight by 400 pounds while maintaining durability and strength.
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has three engine choices:
- 4.3 Liter V6 - 285 hp, 305 lb-ft of torque
- 5.3 Liter V8 – 355 hp, 383 lb-ft of torque
- 6.2 Liter V8 – 420 hp, 460 lb-ft of torque
Nissan Titan
Tale of the Tape
Payload: Up to 1,950 pounds
Towing: Up to 9,740 pounds
With a big grill and a bold exterior, the Titan makes a statement. The Nissan Titan currently offers a 5.6- Liter V8 engine as its standard model, which outperforms the Silverado’s base models. A diesel powerplant is an option for the Titan XD, which features a 310-hp Cummins 5.0-liter diesel.
The Nissan Titan has two engine choices:
- 5.6-liter V8 0 390 hp, 394 lb-ft torque
- 5.0-liter Diesel V8 – 310 hp, 555 lb-ft torque
The Titan features a seven-speed automatic transmission while the Silverado has a six-speed automatic.
Ride and Cabin
Both the Silverado 1500 and Nissan Titan have fairly smooth rides. The Silverado has a slightly quieter cabin while the Titan cabin feels a bit more spacious. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 also has plusher seats.
Towing Strength
There are a host of configuration options. The engine and assorted options you choose will determine the capacity for the Silverado, which has the edge when it comes to sheer towing power.
The Chevy Silverado 1500 has a maximum towing rating of 12,500 pounds while the Nissan Titan has a maximum tow capacity of 9,740. The relevant question to ask here is: how much are you regularly going to tow?
Payload Capacity
Payloads are influenced by engine, axle ratio, and transmissions. You may want to load up your truck with maximum payload and towing capacity, but there is no reason to pay for something you won’t need or use. In making a decision, think carefully about the job you have to do.
The Silverado payload is 2,250 pounds while the Titan weighs in at 1,950 pounds. The Chevy Silverado 1500 comes in 5’8”, 6’6”, and 8’ foot beds. The Nissan Titan offers a similar lineup from 5’7” to 8’1” bed lengths.
Fuel Rating
The Nissan Titan’s 5.6-liter V8 with seven-speed automatic posts a 15 city / 21 highway mpg, according to EPA estimates. The Pro-4X version with the same engine rates a 15 city / 20 highway rating.
The 4.3 Liter V6 is the most efficient engine for the Silverado 1500. It is EPA rated at 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway for the two-door. The 6.2 Liter V8 is rated at 15 city / 20 highway mpg for the four-wheel drive version.
Tech, Safety, and Innovation
The Titan has some unique features not offered in other full-size trucks. For example, it has in-bed storage boxes that can be removed and used as portable coolers for ice and drinks. It also has a “dampened assist” rear tailgate that will lower into place smoothly.
Chevy Silverado Safety Technology:
- Forward collision mitigation
- Lane departure warnings
- Lane keeping assist
- Blind spot monitors
- Backup cameras
- Cross traffic alerts
- Automatic emergency braking
- Tire pressure monitoring
Nissan Titan Safety Technology:
- Blind Spot Warning
- Front and Rear Sonar System
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Backup Camera with 360 view
Price Comparison
The 2018 Silverado starts at $28,285 including destination freight, tax, title, license, and dealer fees. The 2018 Nissan Titan single cab SV MSRP starts at $33,360 excluding destination and handling, tax title, license, and options. When you start adding in some of the more popular trim levels and packages, price can shoot up into the $40,000 and $50,000 range.
The top limited trim level for the High Country Silverado 1500, Chevy’s priciest truck, has a price tag of $55k. The 2018 Nissan Titan Crew Cab Platinum Reserve starts at $56k.
Changes for 2019
The Chevy Silverado 1500 has been redesigned, starting with the 2019 models. Unveiled at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show, the Silverado 1500 features a stronger, lighter-grade steel alloy than previous models. Doors, hood, and tailgates are made of lightweight aluminum while the frame is 80% high-strength steel. Chevy says these changes allows it to reduce total weight without sacrificing durability. Altogether the redesign reduced weight by 450 pounds.
Other Changes for the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 in 2019 Models:
- Industry-first power tailgate will open and close automatically
- Increased number of tie-downs
- Double the maximum capacity of the 2018 model
- New lockable storage bins
- Updated versions of the 5.w liter, V8 and 6.2 liter, V8 engines
- New safety and tech package
The second generation Nissan Titan pickup will launch as an all-new model in 2019 with new configurations, different trim and engine options. The front grill and the mirrors are bigger and the bed size is configurable up to 8 feet. Interior options will include leather and climate-controlled seats.
Other Changes for the Nissan Titan in 2019 Models:
- A new 5.6-liter gasoline-powered V8 engine with a seven -speed automatic transmission which will produce HP and Torque gains: up to 400 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque and a towing capacity of 9,350 pounds
- A redesigned exterior emboldened with 18-inch rims and distinctive headlights and running lights
Nissan Titan or Chevrolet Silverado?
It’s your choice. Whichever vehicle you pick will ultimately depend on which features you want and what capabilities you need. The more you need, the more you’ll pay. If you’re choosing between the Nissan Titan and the Chevy Silverado 1500, consider your requirements then go take the test drive. While this is by no means an exhaustive shopping guide, we hope we have covered the most common concerns of shoppers looking for truck backup cameras.
