Is the strong-but-sensitive type currently in or out of fashion? We're asking, because the Nissan Titan definitely fits the description.

Titan is a big truck. It excels at roominess, with lots of headroom up front, while the back seats of Crew Cab models offer plenty of legroom. It's a dazzling performer, with even more power and torque this year from its mighty 5.6-liter V8. (That's the standard engine; there is no base V6.) Properly equipped, Titan can tow 9,500 pounds. Four-wheel-drive models boast high ground clearances and generous approach angles. Titan's handling is equally responsive, making it among the most enjoyable of the full-size pickups to drive. Brakes, suspension, and drivetrain work together for quick response.

So Titan is a serious truck, but one that also pleases the senses. It offers more emotional appeal than other trucks. That appeal begins with its expressive styling and extends to clever innovations and options that include a factory-applied spray-in bedliner, a C-channel tie-down system for securing cargo and accessories, and a stash box integrated into the driver's-side rear fender for storing a tow hitch or other small items. The rear doors on the King Cab open nearly 180 degrees for quick access. A dampened assist reduces effort when opening and closing the tailgate. The Crew Cab has a power retractable rear window with privacy glass and an electric defroster.

Not surprisingly, Titan earned top honors in the Large Pickup segment of the J.D. Power and Associates Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) study for 2006. The study measures owner delight with design, content, layout and performance.

And with all that going for it, Titan is also an American truck. Yes, it's the first full-size pickup ever from a company whose world headquarters are located outside of North America. (We're not counting the 1999-06 Toyota Tundra, which was only about 7/8ths full-size.) But Titan was designed in California, and is assembled near Jackson, Mississippi, using engines shipped from Nissan's plant near Nashville, Tennessee. With some Big Three-branded trucks now assembled in Mexico, the relative meanings of "domestic" and "import" become complicated.

Changes for 2007 are minimal. In some Midwestern and Southern states, Titan is now a Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV), meaning it can run on gasoline or various blends of gasoline and ethanol. In other states it still runs on gasoline only. But all prices are the same either way. Nor does FFV capability affect power and torque, both of which are increased for '07, from 305 to 317 horsepower, and 379 to 385 pound-feet, respectively.

Trim enhancements include new chrome packages for LE and SE. The Utility Bed is now optional on SE; and the Texas Titan package has been extended to include LE Crew Cabs as well as SE King and Crew Cabs.