2020 Nissan Titan is the Cheapest Full-Size Pickup to Own: Discover Why

The 2020 Titan leads ownership cost among full-size pickups, with maintenance of only $555/year and used prices around $28k.

The 2020 Nissan Titan SL emerges as the full-size pickup with the lowest cost of ownership, according to data compiled by industry sources. The annual repair cost is estimated at $555, well below the segment average, which hovers around $936 per year.

In the used market, the 2020 Titan SL maintains an attractive value, with an average selling price around US$ 28,030. The model remains eligible for the Certified Pre-Owned program, provided it has less than 80,000 miles.

Why is the Titan so reliable?

The foundation lies in the 5.6L V8 VK56VD engine, responsible for 400 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. It is a relatively simple engine, with an aluminum construction and the Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) system.

The 9-speed automatic transmission, developed by Jatco under license from Mercedes-Benz, is a close version of the Mercedes 9G-TRONIC and is recognized for supporting heavy towing and use. Still, some owners report harsh shifts into first gear when slowing down.

Technical Specifications

• Engine: 5.6L NA V8
• Horsepower: 400 hp
• Torque: 413 lb-ft
• Weight: 5,771–5,919 lbs
• Towing Capacity: 9,370 lbs
• Payload Capacity: 1,680 lbs
• Efficiency: 16/22 mpg

These numbers help explain why the Titan remains an interesting option among full-size trucks, even with its less favorable market history and the fact that it was discontinued after the 2020 generation.

Cost Performance and Comparisons

When it comes to annual cost of ownership, the 2020 Titan takes the lead ahead of rivals like the Tundra, Ram 1500, Silverado 1500, and F-150. See the average annual cost comparison:

• 2020 Nissan Titan: $555/yr
• 2020 Toyota Tundra: $606/yr
• 2020 Ram 1500: $691/yr
• 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: $714/yr
• 2020 Ford F-150: $788/yr

The good news regarding maintenance is accompanied by favorable pricing in the used market: the 2020 Titan is generally found at an average of US$ 28,030, reinforcing the model's appeal for total cost of ownership.

New Price and Configuration Options

When new, the Titan offered a price scaling by configuration. The S, entry-level trim, started at $36,190 in rear-wheel drive. The SL, the focus of this comparison, started from $53,990 in RWD and $57,190 in 4x4.

Summary and Perspective

Although it became less popular in the United States, the Titan is remembered for its combination of reliability, low cost of ownership, and solid equipment for daily work and family use. Even with the decision to discontinue it, the 2020 generation offers a practical alternative when the main goal is to minimize long-term expenses.

What do you think? Would you consider a 2020 Titan for the ownership savings, or do you prefer more modern rivals? Share your opinion in the comments about this cost-benefit option among full-size pickups.