Nissan has announced plans that it is working on the next-generation Titan full-size truck.
The full-size truck segment is heating up with new models from Chrysler and GM this year and a new F-Series just around the corner. Toyota is also going to unveil a new 2014 Tundra this week and now Nissan has announced that it is continuing work on the next-generation Titan.
“As a full-line manufacturer, Nissan aims to be a player in every part of the truck business,” said Pierre Loing, vice president, Product and Advanced Planning and Strategy, Nissan Americas. “Our truck teams in Michigan, Arizona, Tennessee and Mississippi are hard at work on a next generation full-size truck line that will expand Titan’s appeal to a broader spectrum of truck buyers, including the all-important skilled trades-buyers. Our new truck will be filled with Nissan innovation and expertise without compromise.”
Nissan says that the current Titan was designed to appeal primarily to personal-use customers. For the next-generation Titan, Nissan’s truck team is looking at broadening the product portfolio to reach more personal-use buyers while also appealing to commercial owners and fleets.
“Our truck engineers and designers have very clear marching orders,” said Loing. “Deliver a winner. Nothing is off the table. Many of our team have lived and studied the truck market and lifestyle most of their careers. They know the stakes.”
Nissan is not providing a timeline for introduction of the next- generation truck.
Meanwhile, as other OEMs have exited the compact truck segment, Nissan continues to experience strong consumer demand for its popular Frontier pickup. Frontier sales have been on the rise for the past two years, up more than 35 percent. Frontier, which had been built at Nissan’s Smyrna, Tenn. assembly plant, is now built alongside the Titan in Canton, Miss. Nissan is not signaling anything but optimism for the compact truck segment.
“We could not be much happier with the success of Frontier,” said Loing. “The truck is a performer and has room for more growth and success, especially as we expand our presence in the truck marketplace.”
