2021 RAM 1500 vs 2021 Nissan Titan

The 2021 RAM 1500 maintained its design from the 2019 overhaul, offering no new cosmetic changes. It continued to provide a variety of configurations, including quad cab or crew cab models, with options for rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The standout for 2021 was the introduction of the TRX model, which drew inspiration from off-road rally races. The TRX was a crew cab-only 4x4 with a 5-foot, 7-inch box, boasting a commanding presence with its functional hood scoop, massive grille, and fender vents. Despite its rugged exterior, the TRX's interior offered first-class comfort and technology, featuring premium materials and a 12-inch Uconnect infotainment display.

The 2021 Nissan Titan retained its refreshed look from 2020, available in three Crew Cab trim levels in Canada. Each trim had distinct design elements, such as the dark grille on the SV and the satin chrome grille on the Platinum Reserve. The Titan featured new headlights with improved light output and LED fog lights for enhanced visibility. The truck's bed was equipped with LED lighting and a Utili-track Bed Channel System, making it practical for hauling. Inside, the Titan received a modern upgrade with a large infotainment screen and comfortable seating, although the steering wheel design felt dated. The Titan offered a range of exterior colours, with the Baja Storm colour standing out as unique and attractive.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX was equipped with a 6.2-litre supercharged Hemi V8 engine, delivering an impressive 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the TRX could accelerate to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and had a top speed of 190 km/h. It offered a payload capacity of 594 kg and a towing capability of 3,674 kg. The TRX featured eight on- and off-road drive modes, including a Baja mode, and a segment-exclusive four-corner air suspension. Despite its power, the TRX was not fuel-efficient, with a combined consumption of 19.8 litres per 100 km.

The 2021 Nissan Titan came with a 5.6-litre V8 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, making it the best-in-class standard powertrain. It was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifts but struggling in mid-range gears. The Titan's fuel efficiency was better than the Toyota Tundra but less efficient than some competitors, averaging 13.4 litres per 100 km combined. The Titan offered a 4WD drivetrain in Canada, with a towing capacity of 4,178 kg and a payload capacity of 739 kg. The Pro-4X model included off-road features like hill-descent control and an electronic locking rear differential.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX offered identical interior dimensions to the standard Ram, with front headroom and legroom measuring 1,038 mm and 1,040 mm, respectively. The rear seats provided 1,011 mm of headroom and 1,147 mm of legroom. The TRX featured ample storage space, including a large centre storage bin. The front seats were comfortable, and the powered-adjustable pedals were a notable feature. The TRX's seating position offered the most adjustability compared to its rivals, enhancing driver comfort on long drives.

The 2021 Nissan Titan featured a standard front bench seat, with bucket seats available, accommodating five or six passengers. The Titan's Zero Gravity seats provided comfort for long journeys, with heated and cooled front seats available. However, petite drivers might struggle to find a comfortable seating position. The Titan offered sufficient seating space and storage, with a large centre console and a smartphone holder. The available panoramic moonroof and power-sliding rear window added to the interior's appeal. The Titan's grab handles and folding rear seatbacks contributed to its practical layout.

The 2021 RAM 1500 featured a 12-inch Uconnect 4C infotainment system with navigation, offering a customizable display and various tech features. The system included wireless charging, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, and a 10-speaker Alpine audio system. The TRX also offered Performance Pages and Off-Road Pages for vehicle performance data. A new head-up display provided real-time driving information, although speed limit notifications were GPS-based and occasionally inaccurate.

The 2021 Nissan Titan came with a standard 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, the largest in its class. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Bluetooth, and satellite radio. The Titan offered a 7-inch programmable information display and an optional Fender Premium Audio System with 12 speakers. While the screen was responsive, its graphics were less modern than competitors. The Titan's tech features included navigation, HD Radio, and dual-zone climate control.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX offered over 100 safety and security features, including forward collision warning and various ADAS systems. A rear backup camera was standard, with an optional 360-degree view available. The TRX also offered adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and pedestrian detection. Passive safety features included an auto-reverse function for windows and sunroof, and an enhanced accident response system.

The 2021 Nissan Titan came with Nissan Safety Shield 360, featuring automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Titan also offered forward-collision warning, parking sensors, and an Around View Monitor camera system. Nissan provided a five-year/160,000-kilometre bumper-to-bumper warranty, the best in Canada.