2020 Toyota Tundra vs 2021 Nissan Titan

The 2020 Toyota Tundra was available in Canada in three models: SR, SR5, and Platinum, with various package configurations for the SR5 trim, including SX, TRD Off-road, and TRD Pro, among others. The Platinum model offered a 1794 Edition package. As buyers moved up the trim levels, the Tundra became more luxurious. It featured two cab styles, Double Cab and CrewMax, with three bed lengths depending on the cab and trim. Prices ranged from an MSRP of $40,650 to $63,190, excluding destination charges and options. The TRD Pro CrewMax, the most expensive version, boasted a 4WD drivetrain, exclusive Army Green paint, and black 18-inch forged aluminum wheels, giving it a military-grade appearance. Inside, the TRD Pro featured black leather with red stitching and embroidery, though the interior's industrial-grade plastic was less appealing at higher price points.

The 2021 Nissan Titan retained its refreshed 2020 look and was offered in Canada in three Crew Cab trim levels: SV, Pro-4X, and Platinum Reserve. Each trim had distinct interior and exterior designs, with unique grille finishes. The Titan featured new headlights with improved light output and LED fog lights for enhanced visibility. The truck's bed had four LED light sources, a Utili-track Bed Channel System, and a spray-in bedliner. The Titan was available in eight exterior colours, with the Pro-4X tester arriving in the unique Baja Storm colour. Inside, the Titan's centre stack was modernized with a large infotainment screen and piano-black plastic trim. The truck's upholstery and seat design were competitive with GMC and Chevrolet, though the steering wheel design felt dated.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra was powered by a 5.7-litre V8 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, delivering 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 401 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. It had a maximum towing capacity of 4,536 kilograms and a payload capacity of up to 784 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The TRD Pro model featured BBS forged aluminum wheels, Fox off-road shocks, a TRD-tuned dual exhaust system, and an aluminum skid plate. The Tundra's V8 engine produced a robust sound, though it could be loud for bystanders. The truck's steering and brakes were satisfactory, and it had a tight turning radius. Fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with an average of 16.4 L/100 km during testing. The Tundra's ride was steady on highways but noisy at higher speeds.

The 2021 Nissan Titan came with a single powertrain option—a 5.6-litre V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Titan's acceleration was strong, though the transmission struggled in mid-range gears. It lacked engine start/stop functionality, affecting fuel efficiency. The Titan's 4WD drivetrain averaged 13.4 L/100 km combined, slightly better than the Tundra. The Titan's steering was traditional, with some play in the wheel, and its ride quality was average for the class. It had a payload capacity of up to 739 kilograms and a towing capacity of 4,178 kilograms. The Pro-4X model featured off-road equipment like hill-descent control and an electronic locking rear differential, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra, built in Texas, offered a spacious interior, with the CrewMax's rear seating area being particularly large. The front seats were supportive and comfortable for long drives. Storage was abundant, though the glove compartment was small, and the backseat offered limited storage options. The Tundra's bed was basic, lacking advanced features like locking storage wells or multifunctional tailgates found in competitors. The truck emphasized simplicity in its design.

The 2021 Nissan Titan featured a standard front bench seat, with bucket seats available, accommodating five or six passengers. The Zero Gravity design of the seats provided comfort for long journeys. Heated and cooled front seats were available, though petite adults might struggle to find a comfortable driving position. The Titan offered ample seating and storage space, with a large centre console and smartphone storage. A panoramic moonroof and power-sliding rear window were available, enhancing the cabin experience. The Titan's interior layout was thoughtful, with easy-to-reach grab handles and folding rear seatbacks.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra's infotainment system, though surrounded by hard plastic, was up-to-date with a 7-inch or 8-inch display, depending on the trim. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and USB ports. The TRD Pro trim featured dynamic navigation, voice recognition, and a 12-speaker JBL audio system. However, the system's virtual buttons were challenging to use while driving, and the Tundra lacked advanced towing technology.

The 2021 Nissan Titan boasted a standard 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, the largest in its class, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The interface was responsive, though the graphics were less modern than competitors. A 7-inch programmable information display was standard, and the audio system could be upgraded to a 12-speaker Fender Premium Audio System. The Titan offered additional features like navigation, dual-zone climate control, and a power outlet.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra came with Toyota Safety Sense, including features like a pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane departure alert. However, its crash-test performance was lacking, with poor ratings in small-overlap frontal-impact tests. The Tundra received mixed ratings from the NHTSA, with better side-impact protection but lower rollover resistance for RWD models.

The 2021 Nissan Titan was equipped with Nissan Safety Shield 360, featuring automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional safety features included forward-collision warning, parking sensors, and an Around View Monitor. The Titan's warranty was the best in Canada, offering five-year/160,000-kilometre coverage.