Nissan Titan 2008 Longbed Catchup

When Nissan Titan was born in the 2004 model year, it was only available in the most popular configurations such as King and Crew Cab, shortbed, V-8 auto. Waking up the 1/2 ton truck class, Titan offered more power, better fuel economy winning many of the truck awards in 2004. Now they want penetration in the work truck sector, beefing up the truck capacity and longer bed options. Originally King cab, 6'6" standard bed, Crew cab 5'6" standard bed. Now for 2008 crew cab long wheel base is 7'3" King Cab LWB is 8'2". Four years later after disappointing sales, we now have more options for this great truck.  LWB fuel tank is up to 37 gallons. Still the same 5.6L V-8 and 5-speed automatic transmission.

With the new full size Toyota Tundra introduced last year, Titan goes on the offence with higher payload, larger axles, brakes and beds for 2008. The payload increased 500 lbs. to 2063. Gas engine is 317 hp 385 torque. with 9500 lb towing.

Longer bed, longer wheelbases, you guessed it smoother ride. Easier for gooseneck and 5th wheel trailers to fit the long bed. There is a whole category of 5th wheel trailers designed for 1/2 ton trucks. Titan with still great towing mirrors from Schefenacker (Visiocorp) same supplier to Ford Super Duty.

Upgrades were made to the rear axle and suspension to accommodate one ton of cargo. The rear axle now has a larger diameter shaft and upgraded leaf spring brackets. Rear leaf spring rates have also been changed to provide better damping. The rear suspension also receives stronger upper and lower shock brackets. To stop the larger payload, the 2008 Titan has larger brake rotors and calipers.

The one on the right is the 08, a little more chrome looking more like little brother, Frontier. The mud from Wisconsin was optional. along with SE, LE and XE models, the new PRO-4X model Rancho shocks, lower axle ratio 3.35, two more skid plates, locking rear differential and 18" wheels.

Last year I drove across the bridge that collapsed in Minnesota across the mighty Mississippi twice, once going to the Minnesota Horse Expo and to the 2008 Nissan Titan press preview traveling from Minnesota to Wisconsin. Off-roading at Apple Valley Farms near Sand Creek, Wisconsin, the new e-locker rear differential lock that you turn off and on. did well in the muddy trail. The Titan had excellent wheel travel bouncing with traction in the ruts through the wilds of Wisconsin.