Nissan Titans took over Blaine Stone Lodge and TexPlex Park in Midlothian March 10-12. Local auto journalists had a great time testing the recently refreshed Titan’s off-road performance. The park’s more than 1,000 acres of rugged terrain provided a perfect proving ground for the powerful Titan Pro X4 to show off its skills.
The Pro X4 handled the park’s challenging terrain as easily as it would a paved road, thanks to features like an electronic locking rear differential. Other features, such as hill descent control, Bilstein shocks, and 18” all-terrain, off-road tires cushioned any bumps. The Titan Pro X4’s off-road performance more than lived up to its aggressive styling.
Photo: Holt
Titan’s interior featured either camo cloth or attractive, embroidered leather seats with red stitching. The dual panoramic moon-roof on the 2020 Titan brings the outdoors right inside. Not surprising, since it’s one of the largest moon-roofs in the industry.
We also drove 2020 Nissan Titan XD models while towing a large travel trailer around Joe Pool Lake. The XD performed superbly while driving around the scenic lake, as well as through busy streets in Cedar Hill, Midlothian, and Grand Prairie. Since the truck’s 5.6-liter V8 endurance engine produces 400 HP and 413 torque, it’s understandable that towing large trailers is just another easy task for a Titan.
Photo: Nissan
The Titan operates on a standard 9-speed transmission that makes it really easy to accelerate while passing highway traffic. Automatic rear braking was another plus, helping drivers slow down or stop for traffic signals without worrying about the towed trailer.
Titan’s Standard Safety Shield 360 is another plus, with such features as rear cross traffic alert assisting the driver. Blindspot warnings, lane departure warnings, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection are also included. A helpful rear-view monitor featured trailer guides and downhill speed control in towing mode. Front and rear sonar system and an around-view monitor were other much-appreciated tools available for the driver.
Photo: Holt
Blaine Stone Lodge is a lovely facility that hosts weddings, concerts, and other events. The adjoining TexPlex Park is an extreme adventure ground that’s popular for MX Motorcross and SX Supercross races. It’s also a great place for ATVs and off-road vehicles like the Titan to test their skills. The park offers 1,000 acres and 72 miles of “rip snorting” adventures for speed addicts. For those customers looking for a more leisurely paced adventure, horseback riding is also available.
The chef-driven food at Blaine Stone Lodge is excellent. We were served delicious chicken salad sandwiches on croissants for lunch. Everyone at my lunch table raved about such home-style side dishes as the spicy potato salad. Their made-from-scratch dessert brownies were also terrific.
Nissan Titan PRO 4X King Cab has an MSRP of $47,590, with the crew cab priced at $49,790. The 2020 refreshed Titans have several exclusive or best in class features, plus Nissan’s warranty advertised as “America’s Best Truck Warranty.” Nissan’s Platinum Reserve crew cab is priced at $55,490.
