2006 Chicago Auto Show: Nissan Titan Onyx Concept
Click To View Larger Image
CHICAGO (Feb. 8, 2006) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today unveiled the Titan Onyx, a concept version of Nissan’s popular full-size Titan pickup. Designed to add a new level of visual appeal for customers who seek higher levels of customization, the Titan Onyx is highlighted by 20-inch chrome wheels, chrome running boards and a unique grille and deep front valance.
Click To View Larger Image
Inside, the Titan Onyx features black interior trim, “satin” gauge bezels, embroidered floor mats, aluminum brake and accelerator pedals and special accents on the steering wheel and head restraints.
Click To View Larger Image
“With its powerful engine, rugged frame and innovative utility systems, the Nissan Titan provides a great foundation for developing special concept editions such as the Titan Onyx,” said Brad Bradshaw, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. “We know that there are buyers looking for more attitude, presence and upscale appearance – trucks that, like this Onyx Concept, offer distinction from other vehicles on the road.”
The 2006 Nissan Titan is available in King Cab and Crew Cab body styles, each available with a standard 305 horsepower 5.6-liter DOHC V8 and a choice of 4×4 and 4×2 drive.
I own a 2002 ford supercrew lariat (poor gas mileage) and looked at the Titans recently. The biggest problem I have is their drivetrain. The engine iis awsome and they did good on weight but the transmission gearing sucks even with their rearends. A .834 overdrive is ridiculous. The truck has a reputation for poor milage. It has hurt sales and I understand why. For the truck to be a big success Nissan needed to one up the competition and they failed. They just matched it.The truck was designed for performance not gas efficiency. There should be a balance. It should have been designed to tow in 4th gear or 1to1 and have a double overdrive to .5 or.6 to get better gas milage for highways and interstates. I suspect that Toyota will do a better job of hitting the mark.
I’ve never been one for automobiles that already come with “aftermarket” accessories. If people want to differentiate their ride on the road, why in the world would they buy a special trim that anyone else can get too? Personally I’d much rather just get a nice stock Titan with decent trim and just get all of my own top choices when it comes to truck accessories. If you don’t get true customization (that is, personalization) then it’s not worth the extra dollars. The other good side is that upgrading a stock model can be done in phases, so there’s no need to shell out an extra 10 grand when you sign on the dotted line.