This Titan can go on road and off

The 2009 Nissan Titan 4x4 Pro-4X King Cab pickup truck is a true workhorse.

It can haul cargo, tow or go off road.

Starting at nearly $34,000, this macho machine offers plenty of options for extra convenience and functionality.

This version of the Titan is powered by a 5.6-liter Endurance V8, which makes 317 horsepower and 385 pounds-feet of torque.

That powerhouse is linked to a five-speed automatic transmission.

This ain't no fuel sipper - gas mileage is 12 mpg city and 17 highway, according to EPA figures.

But that fuel can be put to good use, with the Titan's ability to tow 9,300 pounds and haul 1,870 pounds in the 79.1-inch bed, which is standard.
Our tester had the Max Utility Package, a $1,250 option that boosts towing ability through use of a Class IV integrated receiver hitch, seven-pin wiring harness, trailer brake prewiring and power heated extendable tow mirrors.

Also, in the cargo bed, you get a Utili-track channel system, spray-on bedliner, tailgate area lighting and 12-volt power outlet.
You can also get a sliding bed extender that pulls out when needed to add to the cargo space or to keep whatever you are hauling from shifting around all over the bed.

Another neat feature is the lockable integrated bedside storage cubby that lets you store smaller items.
But if you want to do more than just work - that is, you want to go play in the mud - this Titan switches with ease into 4H or 4LO four-wheel-drive modes by turning and pushing a center-stack-positioned knob.

There's also electronic locking rear differential to assist traction.

Our tester came with 18-inch aluminum-alloy off-road wheels and BF Goodrich Rugged Trail P275/70R-18 tires.
Interior convenience is commendable, too.

For comfort, you can get leather front captain's chairs and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

If you find yourself always toting around a handful of valuables, such as a laptop and other gear, you'll surely be able to use the the lockable center console.

The 60/40-split rear folding bench seats three passengers quite comfortably, another testimony to how large this vehicle is.

And getting back to the back seats is a snap, thanks to the wide-opening rear doors.

With all of its goodies, our tester ran in the $40,000 neighborhood.

That's a lot for a truck.

Plus, while gas is still reasonably priced these days, you know it's going back up, which will make filling this big Titan's tank prohibitively expensive.

But if you are in the market for a workhorse, on road and off, this one can surely get the job done, and it looks pretty good doing it.