2020 Nissan Titan XD Will Lose Its Diesel Engine

Nissan is working on a facelifted Titan, but it appears the updated truck will lose one of its more distinctive features.

According to The Drive, the 2020 Titan XD will no longer be offered with an optional 5.0-liter Cummins V8 turbodiesel engine. The engine was introduced three years ago and develops 310 hp (231 kW / 314 PS) and 555 lb-ft (752 Nm) of torque.

The death of the engine is a bit surprising as diesel-powered pickups have become increasingly common in the United States.  In the past few years, they’ve spread to mid- and full-size pickups such as the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500 and Ford F-150.

The death of the diesel could also mean the 2020 Titan XD will have less impressive towing capabilities. The 2019 model can tow up to 12,830 lbs (5,820 kg) with the diesel engine, while the standard V8 petrol maxes out at 11,780 lbs (5,343 kg).

That’s a relatively minor drop of 1,050 lbs (476 kg), but the Titan XD wasn’t going to win any towing competitions anyways.  The 2020 GMC Sierra HD can move up to 35,500 lbs (16,102 kg), while the 2019 Ram HD can tow up to 35,100 lbs (15,921 kg).

When reached for comment, a Nissan spokesperson told The Drive the elimination of the diesel engine will “help better position Nissan in the long term as we prepare for the launch of the new, dramatically refreshed 2020 Titan and Titan XD Gas later this year.”

Speaking about the facelifted truck, previous spy photos have shown the model will have a revised grille, restyled headlights and a new front bumper. We can also expect new taillights and a modified tailgate.

The styling changes will continue in the cabin as drivers will find a new instrument cluster and a revised center stack that houses a larger and more modern infotainment system. There will also be new switchgear and restyled air vents.

Also Read: 2020 Nissan Titan Facelift Spied With An Updated Interior

Since the diesel engine is being dropped, the truck will likely be powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine that produces around 390 hp (291 kW / 395 PS) and 394 lb-ft (533 Nm) of torque. It’s currently paired to a seven-speed automatic transmission which can be connected to an optional four-wheel drive system.