Ford and Ram usually lead the pickup pack. When comparing towing capacity, performance, and reliability among full-size trucks, the Nissan Titan normally lingers at the bottom of the list. But not now.

The 2021 Nissan Titan just ranked higher than the Toyota Tundra on an important list. It didn’t beat Chevy and GMC models, but placing ahead of the Tundra is a big deal for the Titan.

The 2021 Nissan Titan’s impressive updates

The 2021 Nissan Titan’s performance doesn’t measure up to its class-leading competitors, but the powerful new 5.6-liter V8 engine is a welcome addition to this year’s model.

The refreshed Titan includes a new nine-speed automatic transmission that doesn’t hesitate and is responsive to gear changes, MotorTrend reports. Slight styling modifications include a new front fascia reflecting the Titan Warrior concept.

The Titan lineup is simplified, now offering only Access or Crew Cab configurations and two bed choices. The Pro-4X trim allows for a more rugged driving experience, while the Platinum Reserve edition is the best choice if you’re looking for a more luxurious option.

Nissan also considered passenger comfort in the 2021 Nissan Titan refresh. Sound-deadening technology provides a quiet and comfortable driving experience for all occupants. A larger infotainment screen is also a welcome upgrade from last year’s model.

The Nissan Titan outranks the Toyota Tundra on this list

The Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, and Ram 1500 are among the best-selling passenger vehicles in America. Whether driving to work, hauling a load, or towing a boat, these trucks are up for the task. With strong, loyal followings, these domestic brands dominate U.S. truck sales.

The Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra typically don’t carry the same brand appeal as the heavy-hitting American truck manufacturers. Consumers opting for foreign pickup trucks are usually looking for something out of the ordinary.

Traditionally, the Tundra is rated higher than the Titan. Surprisingly, this year, the 2021 Nissan Titan outranks the Toyota Tundra on MotorTrend‘s list “The Best Full-Size Pickup Trucks to Buy in 2021.”

As expected, Ram and Ford half-ton trucks took the top spots on the list. The 2021 Nissan Titan placed fifth, receiving a MotorTrend overall score of 6.9 out of 10. Its new and improved features, updated styling, and enhanced V8 engine helped the Titan charge past the Tundra, which placed last on this year’s list.

Earning an overall MotorTrend score of 6.7 out of 10, the Tundra needs an overhaul. It hasn’t seen an upgrade in more than a decade, and the outdated truck is no longer competitive in its class. Considered the Truck of the Year in 2008, it hasn’t kept pace with upgrades and improvements found in other trucks. Until the Tundra offers better features, advanced technology, and a more efficient powertrain, it’ll likely remain parked at the bottom of the list.

The Titan still isn’t an awesome truck

It’s worth mentioning that the 2021 Nissan Titan ranked second-to-last on MotorTrend’s list, so just because it beat the Toyota Tundra doesn’t mean the Titan is awesome.

Despite this year’s model changes, the Nissan Titan still doesn’t measure up to most competitors. It doesn’t have a Ford or Ram truck’s towing capacity, and its technology features lag behind the class-leading models.

“While the updated Nissan Titan is a better truck than before, it’s not the best truck for your money,” MotorTrend noted, “though it does eke ahead of the positively ancient Toyota Tundra.”